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| Zinc is needed for a healthy immune system as it is involved with immune cell (T-cell) production in the thymus gland. Zinc is needed for protein synthesis and is important in wound healing and growth. It is one of the most important of the trace elements needed by the body. Zinc is also important in the production of prostaglandins (PGs). Zinc thus has a very direct action in stimulating the normal production of PGs thereby maintaining or restoring normal health and fitness. Incidence; Causes & Development Zinc deficiency occurs more frequently than is commonly recognized. Gastrointestinal malabsorption can lead to deficiency. Signs & Symptoms There is no specific disease associated with zinc deficiency, but many general signs and symptoms can point to it. As body stores of zinc decline, symptoms worsen and new ones appear. Such drastically low levels of zinc are not generally seen in Western countries, but some groups - particularly young women between 16 and 24 - do often have lower than desirable intakes. Some 25% of people who have an impairment in taste and or smell are suffering from an outright zinc deficiency. Another common condition that can develop is Acrodermatitis Enteropathica, an autosomal recessive disease that is characterized by zinc malabsorption. Perhaps in company with vanadium, another common mineral deficiency in MS, which contributes to the occurrence of depression, it will also prevent this distressing symptom. Treatment & Prevention Even a marginal deficiency should not be left untreated. Men have a high concentration of zinc in their prostate gland, and many anecdotal reports indicate that benign enlargement of the prostate gland - causing increased frequency of urination in middle aged men - can be improved by consuming extra zinc. Low zinc levels may result in reduced sperm count, and pregnant women with low blood levels of zinc may give birth to smaller babies. Poor growth in the first few months of life has been associated with reduced levels of zinc in breast milk. |