20/08/2025
*🔬 Zinc – The Micronutrient With a Macro Impact*
Zinc is a trace mineral, yet it plays huge roles in human health.
It is involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions that support:
◀️Immune function – Helps immune cells develop and fight infections
◀️Wound healing – Speeds tissue repair by supporting cell growth and collagen synthesis.
◀️DNA & protein synthesis – Vital for growth, repair, and reproduction.
◀️Sense of taste & smell – Zinc deficiency can alter taste perception
◀️Skin health – Regulates oil glands and supports skin barrier function.
When Zinc is Deficient:
Mild to moderate deficiency may cause:
Frequent infections
Poor wound healing
Hair loss
Loss of appetite or taste changes
Growth delay in children
Skin rashes (often around mouth & eyes)
🔶Research shows zinc deficiency is more prevalent in:
High HbA1c / Diabetes – due to increased urinary zinc loss and oxidative stress, affecting insulin production.
Thyroid Disorders – zinc is needed for converting T4 to active T3 hormone.
PCOS – low zinc may contribute to insulin resistance, inflammation, and skin issues.
Natural Food Sources
Eggs 🥚
Dairy products 🥛 (cheese, yogurt, milk)
Legumes (chickpeas, lentils, beans)
Nuts & seeds (pumpkin seeds, cashews, almonds)
Whole grains (oats, brown rice, quinoa)
Vegetables (mushrooms, spinach, green peas)
Tip: Phytates in legumes & whole grains can reduce zinc absorption. Soaking, sprouting, or fermenting improves bioavailability.
📚 References:
1. Prasad AS. Zinc in human health: effect of zinc on immune cells. Am J Clin Nutr. 2008;88(5):147S–148S.
2. Heyneman CA. Zinc deficiency and taste disorders. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 1996;53(4):427–429.
3. Jansen J et al. Nutrients. 2021;13(2):536.
4. Baltaci AK et al. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2019;189(1):26–35.
5. Kanafchian M et al. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2020;193(1):21–27.
Conclusion:
In nutrition, the smallest elements often have the biggest influence. Ensuring adequate zinc through a balanced diet supports immunity, healing, and overall vitality — and is especially important if you have diabetes, thyroid conditions