Supplemental Zinc By: Karen Carbone Introduction I've read some interesting studies recently having to do with supplementation of zinc and felt that information on this mineral would be helpful. Zinc is a trace mineral that is needed for many important functions in the body. Zinc is largely found in skeletal muscle and bone but is also contained in other organs and cells. Zinc is found in seafood, meats, whole grains, wheat germ, wheat bran, dairy products, legumes, peanuts, egg yolk, nuts and seeds. Page 1 of 5
Zinc has been found to be effective in treating diarrhea (particularly in infants and children), stomach ulcers, acne, ADHD, herpes simplex virus, immune functioning, sickle cell anemia, skin conditions, and Wilson's Disease (a condition where there is excessive copper in the body). Zinc has also been popular for preventing the common cold, however research is still unclear for this use. Symptoms of Zinc Deficiency Zinc deficiency may cause problems with growth, intestinal health, hair loss, and general immune function. Mild zinc deficiency is often overlooked because the symptoms are not always obvious. These symptoms may include loss of hair, loss of appetite, weight loss, and reduced sense of taste or smell. Recent Studies An interesting paper came out of the University of Michigan Medical School regarding Alzheimer's Disease. The premise looks at the cognitive status of those over 70 who experience mild cognitive impairment or have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease. The theory that the study was based upon, related to the balance (or imbalance) of copper and zinc in the body. The authors of the paper Page 2 of 5
believe that copper toxicity is actually a major factor in the epidemic of Alzheimer's in our country. They attribute the increase in inorganic copper to the use of copper pipes and therefore the drinking water supply. Also, most multivitamins contain copper and may, or may not, contain zinc in appropriate amounts. Their study was small (29 patients) but the group receiving zinc supplements (vs. the placebo group) had significantly better scores of cognitive functioning. The results have to be considered tentative until larger studies are done, however, they are certainly encouraging. A very small study was done on 5 Japanese women, between the ages of 35 and 70, who had diffuse hair loss and a low zinc level measured in the blood. The women were treated for 6 to 12 months and the hair loss resolved completely in 4 of the women and improved in the other woman. Zinc Safety The current recommended dietary allowance for zinc is 11 mg. for adult men and pregnant women, and 8 mg. for adult women. Zinc is likely safe when taken by mouth in foods or supplements as long as the tolerable upper level is maintained. This level is: Infants-4 to 5mg per day Page 3 of 5
Children-7 to 34mg per day Adults-40mg per day The dosage for treating medical conditions varies between 40mg and 660mg. It is important to work with your physician or naturopath to determine the best dose for your situation. Zinc may increase the risk of bleeding so anyone taking drugs that thin the blood should be cautious. Zinc has also been known to lower blood sugar levels so, again, caution is advised. Zicam was a popular topical nasal product for the common cold, however, it has been removed from the U.S. market due to multiple cases of loss of smell. The Zicam nasal gel currently on the store shelves is not zinc at all. It is the same active ingredient as that of Afrin. Other Zicam products are homeopathic concentrations of zinc. Zinc is available topically in the form of zinc oxide or pyrithione zinc, to be used on the skin or scalp. Conclusion Zinc is a necessary trace mineral and can be helpful for treating a variety of conditions. Since copper deficiency is rare, and the balance Page 4 of 5
of zinc and copper is necessary, one should carefully consider the use of vitamin products containing copper, particularly after the age of 60. Page 5 of 5