Zinc (Zn) is a vital mineral in the human body; it is necessary for the working of over 300 enzymes that aid metabolism, digestion, and nerve function. Zinc is fundamental for skin health, DNA synthesis and protein production. It is also needed for our sense of smell and taste.
However, it is Zinc’s role in maintaining the immune system that is currently attracting considerable attention, given the global COVID-19 pandemic.
The theory is; Zinc inhibits the binding of the virus to cells within the nasal mucosa to suppress inflammation. There is no specific research on the effect of Zinc supplementation on COVID-19, and research on the effects of Zinc on other coronavirus has been conflicting.
I do not support vitamin or mineral supplementation unless prescribed by a medical practitioner or a registered dietician. The reason for this is; currently, there is no evidence to support the benefits of Zinc supplementation over wholefood intake, in otherwise healthy people.
I cannot stress enough; whole foods are better than any supplement money can buy. It is particularly true with Zinc because high doses of zinc supplements have shown to interfere with the absorption of minerals such as calcium, and copper. Zinc supplements can also compromise heart function.
It is better for your health and well being to harvest the health benefits of Zinc by consuming it from fresh, delicious, whole foods. Here are some plant-based sources of Zinc:
- Almonds
- Beans
- Cashews
- Chickpeas
- Peanuts
- Pumpkin seeds
- Mushrooms
- Sunflower seeds
- Oats
The health benefits of Zinc are too many to list; this essential nutrient helps almost every part of the body to function correctly; from wound healing to immune function, growth and development.
However, it is important to know that fueling the body with whole foods is one side of the story; the other is; daily exercise to ensure the body is in the best possible condition for healing and recovery in the case of illness and/or infection.
Get started with exercise today and download your beginner 9 minute, Cardio, Core and Strength workout with the link below!
Live well with Health and WELLth!
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