The main regulatory mechanisms for human zinc homeostasis are absorption and excretion [ 3], and the small intestine, pancreas, and liver play central roles in its maintenance [ 3]. Endogenous zinc is continuously excreted into the intestinal lumen, from which parts are reabsorbed [ 3], while the remainder, varying between 0.8 and 2.7 mg zinc/d, is excreted with feces [ 31, 32, 33, 34]. Thus, the close interplay of absorption of exogenous zinc as well as the excretion and reabsorption of endogenous zinc provides a stable balance of body zinc homeostasis. The latter is maintained over a wide range of exogenous zinc intakes [ 3, 35, 36, 37, 38]. In zinc-deficient states, fecal and urinal zinc losses are rapidly decreasing [ 31, 39, 40]. Only when these mechanisms fail to sustain zinc-requiring processes, plasma zinc declines [ 35, 40]. This is followed by a reduction of the less exchangeable zinc from tissues such as liver, testes, and bones [ 5, 41]. Consequently, the plasma zinc level itself is not a reliable biomarker for body zinc status [ 5, 27], especially since it also changes during inflammation [ 42] in response to stress or even after a meal [ 5]. There is a strong correlation between male fertility and levels of zinc in the body. It is an essential nutrient for male fertility and plays a role in determining the quality of sperm and the sperm's ability to fertilize an egg. It's rare for people in industrialized countries to be seriously deficient in zinc. Low zinc levels are sometimes seen in the elderly, alcoholics, people with anorexia, and people on very restricted diets. People who have malabsorption syndromes, such as Crohn's disease or celiac disease, may also be deficient in zinc.

As discussed, zinc is an essential micronutrient that is crucial to almost every aspect of your health. Many animal and plant foods are naturally rich in zinc but, in cases where you want to make sure you get sufficient of this essential nutrient to help support your nutritional requirements, taking a supplemental form is a suitable alternative. Estimates now indicate that approximately 2 billion people worldwide are deficient in zinc due to inadequate dietary intake. Overview of zinc distribution and disease association in the human body. ( A) Approximate zinc content (µg per g wet weight) of the respective tissues and the resulting proportion of total body zinc. Detailed estimation of the tissues’ zinc content and references are depicted in Supplementary Table S1. ( B) Diseases of the respective organ systems associated with imbalanced zinc homeostasis. Altaf W, Perveen S, Rehman KU, et al. Zinc supplementation in oral rehydration solutions: experimental assessment and mechanisms of action. J Am Coll Nutr. 2002;21(1):26-32. Having the right level of zinc in the body can help in these ways: Boost immunity and reduce inflammationStudies suggest that zinc supplements may help support wound healing and immune response, improve certain aspects of skin health, reduce the length and severity of respiratory infections, and lower markers of oxidative stress ( 11, 12, 13, 14, 15). Depression: Serotonin is a “feel-good” chemical in the brain. Insufficient levels of magnesium seem to reduce serotonin levels. Magnesium may be helpful for treating mild to moderate depression in adults. Low dietary zinc status has been associated with low circulating concentrations of several hormones including testosterone, in some zinc research papers.

Now you know the importance of zinc in the body, you can maintain a healthy zinc level. Whether with your diet or with a Zinc Glycinate supplement, you know why it is vital for day-to-day bodily functions. Metallothioneins are also involved in the regulation of metal ion homeostasis, the detoxification of heavy metals, and the defence against oxidative stress at a cellular level. Because zinc supports a wide range of the body’s physiological processes ensuring adequate intake is crucial. Cells express many zinc transporters, which contribute to homeostatic control of cells and tissues. Recent studies on zinc and the skin show links to the function of zinc and zinc transporters in various types of skin cells, with one scientific view stating that

3. Benefits For Immune System Health

Taking too much zinc can cause negative side effects, such as decreased immune function, low copper levels, and reduced HDL (good) cholesterol levels ( 1). What are the potential side effects of zinc supplements? The mineral is anti-inflammatory as it helps to reduce excess oil production. Scientific studies show that by ensuring you have adequate zinc levels, you can help fight acne. 2. Wound Healing Zinc is essential for sustaining the immune system. It helps eliminate pathogens, and a zinc deficiency can reduce this capacity. The immune system also needs zinc to produce or activate certain cells.