Description

Clinical Applications

Zinc is an essential trace mineral and serves important roles in the body. More than 300 enzymes depend on zinc for their normal activities in cellular metabolism. As a cofactor, zinc participates in carbohydrate and protein metabolism as well as copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD) antioxidant activity. Zinc’s role in supporting immune function includes regulating T lymphocytes, natural killer cells, CD4 cells, and interleukin II. A review of the research suggests that “zinc supplementation can significantly reduce the morbidity and mortality of apparently well-nourished children and shorten the time to recovery from acute [health problems].”

Zinc’s pivotal role in protein metabolism translates into a pivotal role in wound healing, DNA synthesis, normal inflammatory response, and normal growth and development during childhood, adolescence,
and pregnancy. Zinc helps maintain the structural integrity of cell membranes; it assists them in their normal function and protects them from oxidative damage. Research in human subjects of various ages suggests that zinc supplementation decreases oxidative stress markers, supports a normal response to inflammation, and appears to be a factor in balancing TH1 and TH2 immune cell activity. Skin and mucous membranes also depend on zinc for their maintenance and integrity.

The body has no specialized system for storing zinc, so daily intake and absorption is essential. Zinc Glycinate—an Albion® TRAACS amino acid chelate—is a high-potency source of zinc formulated for enhanced absorption. In this form, zinc is coupled with two glycine molecules to facilitate its absorption across the intestinal wall and reduce interference from phytates and competing minerals.