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  1. Burgerstein Vitamins
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  3. Minerals/trace elements
  4. Zinc

Zinc

The true multi-talent zinc is involved in various metabolic processes in the body. In addition to its participation in over 200 enzymes, it is important for the immune system and hormone metabolism.

Fields of application of zinc

  • Immune system
    Due to its regulating property on the immune system, zinc can be considered for treatment of colds, angina, middle ear infections, sinusitis, herpes. Zinc is also recommended for immune prophylaxis (reduction of the risk of colds). 
  • Diabetes
    Zinc has an influence on insulin action. Due to the increased loss of zinc through the urine, diabetics often have a zinc deficiency. Sufficient zinc intake improves fasting blood glucose levels and long-term blood glucose levels (HbA1c) in diabetics. 
  • Eye diseases
    The highest concentration of zinc in the body is found in the retina. In several studies, zinc deficiency has been linked to retinal dysfunction. Vitamin A is important for the visual process - but the formation of the vitamin A transport protein is dependent on an adequate zinc supply. Therefore, zinc deficiency may exacerbate typical vitamin A deficiency symptoms such as night blindness or inadequate dark adaptation. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common cause of severe visual impairment in Switzerland. There are good studies on the use of zinc in macular degeneration, the best results were observed when zinc was combined with antioxidants.1
  • Skin problems
    Due to its anti-inflammatory and -bacterial properties, the administration of zinc is a useful therapy for acne (acne vulgaris).  Zinc supplementation is also a therapeutic option for acne inversa (recurrent, painful abscesses/nodules).
  • Other applications of zinc:
    Asthma | Wound healing: burns, injuries | Fertility disorders, pregnancy | Hair loss | Puberty/growth.

The functions of the trace element in the body

  • Immune system
    Zinc is important for the regulation of the immune response. Learn how to support your immune system with micronutrients in this article. 
  • Hormone metabolism
    Zinc is important for the formation of sex hormones (e.g. testosterone), thyroid hormones, growth hormones, insulin and tissue hormones (prostaglandins).
  • Anti-inflammatory
    Zinc regulates the formation of signaling molecules and reduces the formation of pro-inflammatory substances such as nitric oxide (NO).
  • Enzyme functions 
    Zinc has been shown to participate in over 200 different enzymes. For example, zinc influences the acid-base balance, the breakdown of alcohol and protein digestion. Zinc also has an inhibiting or accelerating effect on certain metabolic processes. For example, the release of neurotransmitters is co-determined by zinc.
  • Cell protection 
    Zinc protects cells from damage caused by free radicals (molecules with a high reaction potential). In addition, zinc has a protective effect against poisoning with heavy metals such as cadmium, lead, nickel, etc. and promotes the repair processes of the cells.

Zinc deficiency - the symptoms

  • fertility disorders
  • white spots on the fingernails
  • hair loss
  • rashes, pustules, delayed wound healing
  • susceptibility to infections
  • night blindness
  • growth disorders, developmental disorders

These people have an increased zinc requirement

  • pregnant & nursing women
  • diabetics
  • athletes
  • people who regularly take diuretics

The good zinc sources and compounds

The bioavailability of zinc in foods varies greatly. Plant sources in particular are poorer sources of zinc. Zinc forms poorly soluble complexes with the phytates contained in plants, which can be poorly absorbed by the body. Thus, the intake of zinc may be insufficient even if, according to intake, adequate amounts of zinc-containing foods are consumed. Good sources of zinc are animal products, e.g. beef or dairy products. The proteins or amino acids in the diet have a positive influence on zinc absorption.

In the case of dietary supplements, organic zinc compounds are considered ideal. Zinc gluconate, zinc bisglycinate and zinc citrate have a comparably good absorption. Zinc oxide and zinc sulfate show poorer absorption.

Here's what you need to keep in mind when taking zinc long-term

Long-term, high-dose supplementation with zinc can negatively influence copper status. With zinc doses of more than 150 mg per day for several weeks, disturbances in the immune system are observed.

Zinc and copper
From 30 mg of zinc per day (and from > 1 week), copper absorption is reduced. To avoid copper deficiency, 1 mg of copper per 30 mg of zinc should be taken daily in this case.

Products with zinc...