Zinc is an essential mineral that is found in foods that are mostly considered proteins (meat, beans, dairy products, etc.). Zinc is important in many processes within our body including wound healing, making DNA, supporting growth and development, smell, taste, and supporting the immune system.
As you can see there are many areas where we use zinc, and since we don't have a storage site for it, we have to continually supply the body with it. Since zinc is mostly found in protein type foods, the first step to using the zinc that is eaten is to have a healthy functioning stomach to separate the zinc from the protein. If there is symptoms of stomach problems (heartburn, reflux, burping, gas, etc.) then most likely zinc, along with many other nutrients, is not being absorbed. Contact a local natural health care provider for help with your stomach.
If the stomach is working properly then the recommended amount of zinc ranges from 15-65 mg per day. I have been consistently finding that my patients need about 60 mg per day.
If you are battling a cold, sinus infection or want to keep these and other illnesses at bay, take a look at your zinc intake and consider increasing it, especially during this time of year.
For your health,
Dr. Herbert
