PHARMA FOCUS: CAMs & HEALTH SUPPLEMENTS
Zinc: the health advantages and protective benefits
The fundamental importance of zinc for humans was first recognised in 1963. At the time, only three enzymes were known which require zinc as a cofactor. Today, it is common knowledge that over 300 enzymes and over 1 000 transcription factors rely on zinc in order to function.1 In this article, experts from Dr. Paul Lohmann explore the wonders of zinc.
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inc shows a number of attractive and health-promoting properties for external and/or topical applications. Above all, its anti-inflammatory, wound healing, antioxidative and antibacterial effects make it a versatile additive for products related to personal care, as well as skin and oral care.2, 3 Due to these effects, zinc salts play an important role in the development and application of dermatological products. Various forms of acne have been treated with preparations containing zinc salts such as zinc oxide for quite some time now. Interestingly, the efficiency of the antibacterial effect of zinc oxide depends on its particle size – the smaller the particles, the stronger the growth inhibition.4
"Providing the body with an adequate supply of zinc is essential at any age and for both sexes" In topical applications, the antioxidative effect of zinc is especially useful in sunscreen products. Zinc reduces the oxidative stress that is caused by the intensive solar radiation on skin.5 At the same time, microfine zinc oxide absorbs and reflects longwave UV-A radiation quite effectively, additionally generating physical protection.6
ORAL CARE Gram-negative bacteria settle in the oral cavity in the course of hours even with proper oral care. They cause unpleasant odours (bad breath, or halitosis) due to their transient metabolites (volatile sulphur-containing compounds, or VSC). The mechanical removal of bacterial plaque via thorough teeth cleaning counteracts this and protects the teeth from damage by caries. When zinc salts are added to toothpaste or mouthwash, the effect remains in the oral cavity approximately two to three hours after teeth cleaning by binding to the mucosa
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elements of the saliva and the membranes of the bacteria. During this time, the zinc blocks specific receptors on the membrane of the bacteria. This significantly inhibits their spread and propagation. 6 As a consequence, the development of bad breath is reduced substantially.7
AVOIDING DEFICIENCY Providing the body with an adequate supply of zinc is essential at any age and for both sexes. Nevertheless, it is estimated that two billion people are threatened by a chronic zinc deficiency, mostly due to an unbalanced, high-dose phytate diet.1 Illnesses such as malabsorption syndrome, liver diseases, chronic kidney diseases, sickle-cell disease and other chronic illnesses can also lead to a zinc deficiency.1 When chronic, the deficiency leads to growth disorders, immune weaknesses and cognitive deficits, among others. In addition, recurrent infections caused by a Zinc deficiency also drastically reduce a person’s life expectancy.1 Other illnesses related to zinc deficiency include an increased susceptibility to infection, dermatitis and delayed wound healing. In particular, older people with this deficiency are more inclined to lose muscle mass while gaining fatty tissue due to the inhibited protein biosynthesis linked to this deficiency. 8
ZINC FOR VARIOUS AGE GROUPS The diverse physiological requirements for zinc as well as its immune-stimulating effect make it an important mineral for all age groups. Just as crucial for all age groups is its capacity to reduce oxidative stress and reduce the risk of cancer. Children and adolescents require sufficient quantities of zinc for optimal growth. An unhindered protein biosynthesis, in particular, ensures the best possible development of muscles and the nervous system. Men during the years of sexual activity require zinc in sufficient quantities for optimal sexual function and a normal testosterone level. Men suffering from idiopathic infertility can, under certain circumstances, restore their fertility with the help of a sufficient supply of Zinc.9 Older people require zinc in sufficient quantities to prevent age-related macular degeneration and neurodegenerative illnesses, among others.
DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS Zinc deficiencies can be effectively handled with corresponding dietary supplements. In this case, the market offers a wide selection of delivery forms, which range from tablets, chewable and effervescent tablets, sachets and shots to drink powders and enriched beverages. Several zinc salts can be used in dietary supplements. In particular, organic salts such as zinc l-ascorbate, zinc l-aspartate
