For many years we have been offering free Zinc testing in store. It’s a simple test – in fact it’s a taste test, so not at all invasive. Testing your Zinc levels can be beneficial, as Zinc deficiency may contribute to many health problems. It’s probably even more important at this time of the year as Zinc is believed to be helpful for our immune system.

When we think of supplements which may be helpful for our immune system, Zinc is not always at the top of the list. However, Zinc plays an integral role in maintaining a healthy immune system, particularly when it comes to treatment of the common cold. There are ongoing studies relating to the benefits of Zinc for our immune system. Some studies have shown supplementing with Zinc, especially if we are Zinc deficient, may reduce the period of a cold by up to 50% (1). Which of course is good to know at this time of the year. Our white blood cells are vital for the healing process as well as helping our body defend against infections and Zinc may help to fight infection by assisting the production of white blood cells.

Low levels of Zinc may also be associated with poor would healing. Zinc is believed to help with cell division which means it supports the renewal of skin after injuries or abrasions. It also has another benefit in that it helps to fight off infection which of course is an added bonus. It has therefore been found to be particularly helpful for healing of wounds as well as ulcers.

It’s also believed Zinc supports healthy skin. For those suffering from acne, they will be pleased to note Zinc can be particularly helpful as it works in many ways. It can not only moderate inflammation and control the activity of oil glands in the skin, but it also promotes the healing of acne lesions plus helps avoid further outbreaks. By assisting the body to process the fatty acids required for the healing process of the skin, it can also be beneficial in decreasing scarring.

Our olfactory cells and taste buds also rely on zinc. Unfortunately, as we age sometimes our sense of taste and smell lessens. If we are low in zinc this can also contribute to this problem. Low male fertility has also been linked to low zinc levels because of low sperm count, seminal volume, poor sperm mobility and reduced testosterone concentrations. One of the highest concentrations of zinc in the body can be found in the prostate gland. It’s been found zinc levels decrease in the prostate tissue and prostatic fluid in men with prostate cancer.

Because Zinc is mainly absorbed through the small intestine, it has been found those suffering from malabsorption disorders are more likely to need extra zinc. I often write about leaky Gut Syndrome which can cause many health problems such as skin disorders, malabsorption, allergies, and auto immune disorders. Supplementing with Zinc can assist in tightening up and healing the gut wall and in turn helping to treat those health problems caused by Leaky Gut. It also means anyone suffering from poor digestion and gut and bowel problems may be suffering from low absorption of Zinc.

An indication of low zinc levels may also be white spots on the fingernails.

Dietary sources of zinc include meat, egg yolks, dairy products, pumpkin seeds, liver, nuts, oysters, and sunflower kernels. If you are low in zinc however it is also important to take a zinc supplement.

So, if you believe your body may be low in zinc, call into our store where we can easily test for low zinc levels.

For more information on any health issue call in to see Bev and the team at Go Vita, Your Health Shop at 5 North St in Batemans Bay or phone on 0244729737. Don’t forget to tune in to Bev on 2EC every Wednesday at 12.30pm

• Science M, Johnstone J, Roth DE, Guyatt G, Loeb M. Zinc for the treatment of the common cold: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. CMAJ. 2012 Jul 10;184(10):E551-61. doi: 10.1503/cmaj.111990. Epub 2012 May 7. PMID: 22566526; PMCID: PMC3394849.