What is zinc?

Zinc is one of the most important trace elements and plays a central role in all growth, development and regeneration processes in the body. It is a cofactor of numerous enzymes and is involved in energy metabolism, protein synthesis, wound healing, DNA repair and cell protection against oxidative stress. The immune system is also dependent on sufficient zinc levels.

Around 70% of the body's total zinc is stored in the bones, skin and hair. The rest is stored in the liver, kidneys and muscles. The bones are the most important reservoir for zinc in the body and can release zinc into the bloodstream when required.

Zinc must be supplied in sufficient quantities through the diet.

A zinc deficiency can lead to a weak immune system, skin changes, brittle nails, impaired wound healing, growth retardation and a reduced sense of taste. If the deficiency is compensated, the symptoms improve relatively quickly.

An excess of zinc is very rare, but can occur if high doses of zinc supplements are taken uncontrolled over a long period of time. Signs of an overdose are headaches, nausea and tiredness.

Examples of zinc-rich foods:

Zinc activates the immune system during colds

Zinc has been shown to be particularly effective as a lozenge in numerous scientific studies. If people take 75 mg of zinc within the first 24 hours of noticing the first cold symptoms, the average duration of a cold is reduced by 30 percent. The reason: by sucking the zinc tablet, the zinc reaches the site of the infection directly, namely the mucous membranes in the mouth and throat. In addition, the mucous membranes are moistened by sucking and form a better barrier against invading viruses and bacteria. Important: after a cold, the zinc intake should be reduced to a normal level of around 15 mg per day.

What Does Genetics Have to Do with It?