Zinc is a mineral required by the body to support immune function and assist in various cellular activities. Unfortunately, an estimated 25% of the world’s population (about 2 billion people) has a zinc deficiency.
Experts believe the primary reason for zinc deficiency is an inadequate diet. A diet high in sugar and carbohydrates prevents the body from properly absorbing zinc. Phytic acids found in legumes and grains can block zinc absorption when consumed in high amounts.
Zinc deficiency is also common in people that lack the ability to absorb the mineral, such as those with leaky gut syndrome. Regularly taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also adversely affect zinc levels.
Some of the most common symptoms which may be a sign of zinc deficiency include: Lowered Immunity, Poor Memory, Breast and Prostate Cancer, Infertility, Loss of Libido, Frequent Colds or Flus, Abnormal Hair Loss, Slow Thinking Process, Spots on Fingernails, Low Energy, Insomnia, Loss of Taste or Smell, Sinus Problems and Allergies, Skin Rashes / Eczema, and Loss of Appetite
Zinc deficiency can promote a variety of human cancers including esophageal as well as cancers related to the digestive tract, head, and neck. Zinc supplementation has been shown to reduce the number of tumors and carcinogenic severity.
Natural sources of zinc include: oysters, eggs, whole grains, nuts, seeds, shellfish, and meat. Shellfish may accumulate toxins, so better choices are pastured (grass fed) beef and organ meat as well as locally produced eggs from 100% pasture raised animals. Plant based sources of zinc are found largely in sprouted pumpkin, hemp, sunflower, and chia seeds.
Adults are generally recommended to take 8-11 milligrams of zinc daily. However, functional health experts and most progressive nutritionists will advise that 30-40 mg/daily is preferred. Exceeding 100 mg/day can create adverse health reactions and actually increase cancer risk.
