REQUIRED NUTRIENTS FOR THE BODY
On Your Health and You, in the next few editions, we will be focusing on the required nutrients that our bodies need to be well and healthy.
ZINC
What does Zinc do for the body?
Zinc is a mineral found in tissues of the Body. It is one of the top three elements present in the human body. Zinc improves the immune system, the body needs zinc to make Protein and DNA. It helps in healing wounds, DNA synthesis, growth and development of the foetus and protein synthesis. Daily requirement of Zinc in the body is 12,000 microgram (mcg).
Functions of Zinc in the Body
It helps in cell reproduction, growth and repairs of tissues.
It regulates appetite, helps in the usage of carbohydrates, proteins and fats.
It helps in wound healing, blood clotting and increases restoration of the skin cells.
Zinc reserves sperm fertility, treats menstrual problems, prevents congenital abnormalities and birth deformities.
It fights pneumonia, diarrhoea, infections and defends the prostate gland from infection.
Effects of Zinc Deficiency
The following are the effects of zinc deficiency: Acne, Obesity, Diarrhoea, Low Libido, Low Sperm count, pancreatic disorders, hypoglycaemia, compromised immune system, hair loss and skin lesions, loss of appetite, impairment of cognitive and motor functions, action on gonads for both sexes, loss of taste and smell.
Sources of Zinc
Zinc can be found in the following; spinach, cashew, cocoa, egg yolk, Quail egg, sesame oil, watermelon seed, millet, turmeric, carrot, cabbage, pumpkin, pea, pomegranate, corn, borage, apple, avocado, potato, aloe vera, almond oil, aniseed, basil, barley, bay leaf, beetroot, bitter leaf, black bean, black Cardamom, Black Seed, Black Seed Oil, Black Plum, Brown Rice, Celery, Chia, Clove, Coconut, Coriander, coconut water, cowpea, cucumber, cumin, dill, egg white raw, evening primrose, fennel, fenugreek, garlic, ginger, ginkgo, guava, lady finger, lemon grass, lettuce, kale, onion, orange, parsley, peanut, radish, rosemary, tofu, tomato, thyme, wheat, etc.
Excess zinc in the body could result in vomiting, abdominal pain and may lead to organ failure.
To be continued…
* Bose Banji – Idowu, a Chartered Accountant is a Health and Wellness Coach. She is the founder of Healthy You platform with sole aim of reaching out to members on Healthy living. Email: bose.banji@gmail.com. Tel:+2348023362189