The Diplomatic Insight April 2020

ZINC: A Vital Micronutrient
Mehwish Idrees
Determined to be an essential
nutrient for humans in 1963,
zinc is an antioxidant and trace
mineral that we need to consume
daily, since our bodies cannot store
it. For this reason, we must get a
constant supply through diet. Zinc
primarily is involved in supporting
the immune system and hundreds
of enzymes needed for regulatory
and metabolic functions. It also is
essential for healthy growth and
development from in utero through
puberty.
Role in body:
Research shows that zinc has
numerous health benefits.
Boost Immune system:
Zinc helps keep your immune
system strong. Because it is necessary
for immune cell function and cell
signaling, a deficiency can lead to a
weakened immune response. Zinc
supplements stimulate particular
immune cells and reduce oxidative
stress.
Accelerates Wound Healing
Zinc is commonly used in hospitals
as a treatment for burns, certain
ulcers and other skin injuries
.Because this mineral plays critical
roles in collagen synthesis, immune
function and inflammatory
response, it is necessary for proper
healing. In fact, skin holds a
relatively high amount — about
5% — of your body›s zinc content
.While a zinc deficiency can slow
wound healing, supplementing
with zinc can speed recovery in
people with wounds.
May Reduce the Risk of Certain
Age-Related Diseases
Zinc may significantly reduce
your risk of age-related diseases,
such as pneumonia, infection and
age-related macular degeneration
(AMD). Zinc may relieve oxidative
stress and improve immune
response by boosting the activity
of T-cells and natural killer cells,
which help protect your body from
infection.
May Help Treat Acne
Acne is a common skin disease that
is estimated to affect up to 9.4% of the
global population. Acne is driven
by obstruction of oil-producing
glands, bacteria and inflammation.
Studies suggest that both topical
and oral zinc treatments can
32•THE DIPLOMATIC INSIGHT