Natural zinc products from Switzerland

Zinc is a multi-talent and has many different functions in the body; also in the brain. Among other things, it contributes to normal cognitive function. Zinc also helps protect cells from oxidative stress and maintain normal immune system function. Further, it contributes to normal DNA synthesis and has a function in cell division. Zinc is also needed to maintain normal skin, hair and nails.

Zinc

Definition of zinc

The chemical element zinc has the element symbol Zn and the atomic number 30. In its properties it resembles alkaline earth metals, but still belongs to the transition metals. In air, zinc forms a weather-resistant protective layer This protective layer consists of zinc carbonate and oxide. Zinc is an essential and vital trace element for humans.

Need for zinc

There are about two. three grams of zinc in the human body, 99% of which is intercellular. According to D-A-CH reference values, an adult man needs 10 mg per day, an adult woman 7 mg per day.  Recommended to pregnant women from the 4th month is a supply of 10 mg of zinc per day, breastfeeding women even a supply of 11 mg per day.

Functions of zinc

Zinc is involved in many tasks in the human body. Among other things, it is needed as an activator and as a component. It helps break down proteins, fats and carbohydrates.  Zinc is also necessary for the sense of taste and appetite. It supports fertility, growth, the immune system and sexual development. Zinc also helps protect the body from free radicals. The body can store zinc only to a limited extent. Therefore, regular intake through food is important.

As zinc supports the formation of sex and thyroid hormones, it is also important for development and growth processes. It protects cell membranes and is important for the development and maturation of the immune system. With the help of zinc, the body is able to excrete carbon dioxide through the lungs.

occurrence in the body

Zinc is present everywhere in the body. Zinc makes up the largest percentage in the muscles at 60% and in the bones at 30%. A high concentration of zinc is found in the hair, fingernails, on the skin, sex organs and the retina of the eyes. A large amount of zinc is also found in the islet cells of the pancreas. About one to two percent of the zinc in the human body is in the blood. The main part is in the red blood cells.

Food as a source of zinc

Animal foods are the main source of zinc because the body can absorb zinc from meat foods better than from plant foods. In particular, beef, eggs, pork, poultry, milk, and cheese are good sources of zinc. Whole grain and cereal products are particularly good plant sources of zinc.  The higher the grind of whole grain products, the lower the zinc content. Therefore, the zinc content in whole grain products is higher than in other grain products.

Phytic acid, which is often found in plant foods such as seeds, nuts and legumes, inhibits the absorption of zinc. The higher the intake of phytic acid, the higher the intake of zinc should be.

Zinc Deficiency

Zinc deficiency is often seen in the skin, mucous membranes, and immune system. The involvement of zinc in cell division means that the deficiency can be seen mainly in the aforementioned areas of the body. Often, zinc deficiency provides slowed cell division. This results in symptoms such as dermatitis, acne, impaired taste, diarrhea, delayed wound healing, increased susceptibility to infection, impaired growth and slowed recovery.

Excessive Zinc Intake

Excessive zinc intake is extremely rare and is toxic only at very high doses. Excessive intake usually occurs by drinking water from galvanized vessels or by ingesting highly acidic foods.

Zinc Deficiency

Possible causes of zinc deficiency are an unbalanced diet, impaired absorption of zinc by the intestines, or an increased need for zinc, for example during pregnancy. Some medications can also interfere with the body’s absorption of zinc. This can happen, for example, with the absorption of ACE inhibitors, birth control pills, cortisone and iron preparations.

Zinc as a dietary supplement

The additional intake of zinc as a dietary supplement is recommended especially for risk groups, such as pregnant and breastfeeding women, athletes and in vegan or vegetarian diets. Browse through our assortment. There you will find the product suitable for you. In our online store you will find, among others, the products Oregano Vida and Vitality Shot.