5 Important Zinc Benefits For Human Health

Zinc benefits is very important for the survival of the cells of the human body. One of them is, as an intermediary for over 70 kinds of enzymes and proteins in the human body. The enzyme itself plays a role in the metabolism of the whole cells of the human body, then if enzymes are not fully formed, the function of the body's cells will be disrupted. With a large enough concentration in the body which occupies the second position after iron, zinc can be easily found in various types of foods rich in protein such as meat, beans and legumes. The intake of zinc is needed is actually very little, but in fact the absorption of zinc by the body was very small.

Of about 4-14 mg / day the amount of zinc that is recommended to be consumed, only about 10-40% that can be absorbed. The presence of other high mineral substances in the body, such as iron and copper as well as the content phytat in spinach, kale and other vegetables, it inhibits the absorption of zinc in the intestinal mucosa. However, if these substances fermented, can actually increase the absorption of zinc. If you are deficient in zinc, it will usually appear the signs or symptoms of zinc deficiency, such as hair loss, excessive fatigue, decreased appetite, and so forth.

Zinc is essential as a first line of defense in our body. The first line is represented by a physical disease prevention, such as the skin and the mucous membrane lining the inside of the body. Zinc is found in the secretion of mucus in our respiratory system, and also on the surface of the lungs and throat. It has antimicrobial effects, so it helps to kill bacteria and viruses before they could infect. Zinc is also secreted in saliva and mucous membranes of the digestive system to kill bacteria that come ingested with food.

Not only beneficial support of the immune defense, zinc also supports the production of white blood cells and activate the B and T cells needed by the body's immune system to fight viruses and bacteria. Below are five zinc benefits for our health.

1. Immune system: Zinc is one of the nutrients to boost the immune system, and thus help prevent the disease.

2. Mood and brain health: Zinc is also found in the brain, and has been proven to reduce oxidative damage caused. This damage is associated with the development of some diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.  Zinc also has a calming effect on the brain, so that if the deficiency can cause agitation and mood decline. Low levels of zinc are also found in people who are severely depressed, and there are allegations of the relationship between zinc and the uptake of serotonin in the brain. There are also studies that show the benefits of zinc for children with autism and ADHD. There is also a relationship between low zinc and depression after childbirth.

3. Men's health and fertility: Oysters are known as healthy aphrodisiac, it is probably due to the high content of zinc. Because zinc proved to be stored in the prostate, testes and sperm, then it should also beneficial for men's health and fertility. Research has shown that zinc supplements can increase sperm count, motility and morphology. Zinc also helps reduce the possibility of an enlarged prostate. This is especially important for men over the age of 50, because they are more risky with BHP (benign prostatic hyperplasia).

4. Eye health: Zinc is also needed by the liver to synthesize vitamin A, which is essential for good vision. It is also part of the mechanism for the transport of vitamin A in the blood to the eye area.

5. Healthy skin: Zinc has antioxidant properties that protect the skin from UV. Important in producing collagen for wound healing and preventing dry skin conditions and allergies. It is very beneficial in the treatment of acne, because the role of importance in regulating and anti-inflammatory oil glands in the skin. Teenage boys need plenty of zinc for growth and sexual development.