What does the mineral zinc do?

Zinc mineral is found in the liver, bones, epithelial tissues, pancreas, kidneys and blood cells in the body. It is a very important micronutrient for human nutrition. Therefore, zinc deficiency creates some problems. In the content of this article, you can find a lot of information about zinc mineral and its deficiency.

Tasks and Benefits of Zinc Mineral

  • Zinc mineral shows antioxidant properties. Therefore, it is effective in preventing damage caused by free radicals.
  • It takes part in the structure and function of the insulin hormone necessary for metabolism.
  • It is a type of mineral necessary for the healing of wounds. Also builds resistance against infections.
  • Zinc mineral is involved in protein metabolism and nucleic acid synthesis, which are vital for humans.
  • Protects from the harmful effects of UV radiation.
  • It plays a role in many metabolic events such as growth and development, sense of taste and smell, storage of hormones, enzymatic catalysis.

In Which Foods Is Zinc Found?

The absorption of zinc is easier in foods with more animal protein. Because animal proteins contain amino acids that increase absorption such as cysteine ​​and methionine. So the usability rate in the body is quite high. In addition, vegetable proteins have less effect because they contain phytates, a substance that reduces the absorption of zinc.

Zinc Deficiency

Zinc deficiency is caused by malabsorption and nutritional deficiencies. For example, calcium, metal complexes, proteins, phytates, lignin and wheat bran affect the absorption of the mineral zinc. In addition, many factors such as dietary habits and environmental pollution cause a decrease in zinc mineral. As a result, in zinc deficiency;

  • Physical growth retardation
  • Defects may occur in the functions of enzymes in the structure of zinc. Therefore, enzymes cannot perform their duties.
  • It causes delayed healing of wounds.
  • There is a loss of appetite. In addition, disturbances in the perception of sensory properties such as taste and smell are observed.
  • It negatively affects the immune system.
  • Disorders such as parakeratosis, calluses, acanthosis, hair loss occur. In addition, if the zinc balance in the brain is disturbed, the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and depression increases.

Reference:

  • Akdeniz V, Kınık Ö, Yerlikaya O, Akan E., İnsan Sağlığı ve Beslenme Fizyolojisi Açısından Çinkonun Önemi, Akademik Gıda. 2016; 14(3): 307-314.
  • Doğan M., Çinko Eksikliği ve Fazlalığı, Klinik Tıp Pediatri Dergisi. 2020; 12(1): 13-19.
  • Gizlici MN, Çatak J. Diabetes Mellitus ve Çinko İlişkisi. Türk Diyab Obez 2019;2: 107-113.