If anything positive has come out of this pandemic situation, it is that many people have become aware of the importance of maintaining a strong and healthy immune system. The year 2020 has come to show us the importance of preventive medicine and keeping our bodies in an optimal state. A strong immune system is of great help in times of stress or to cope with diseases such as Influenza, Mycoplasma or Covid-19.
Whenever people talk about a healthy immune system, vitamin C is mentioned. Many know about its importance and benefits. But today I want to talk about Zinc. This type of metal is an essential trace element for people to stay healthy. It is present in all body tissue and is necessary for healthy cell division. Like vitamin C, it boosts immunity and fights common colds and illnesses. In addition, Zinc facilitates wound healing and is part of carbohydrate metabolism.
It also has an important impact on hormonal balance, so a small deficiency of Zinc can result in an increased risk of infertility or diabetes. It helps with hormone production, growth, strengthens the body's immunity and assists in the digestion process, among other things. In addition, it acts as an anti-inflammatory agent so it benefits people with chronic diseases such as cancer or heart disease.
How do you know if you have a Zinc deficiency? There are several symptoms that can be a red flag indicating a deficiency of this metal. As I mentioned infertility, a weak immune system and difficulty healing wounds, skin infections or skin irritations can be signs of low Zinc levels. Other symptoms can be changes in appetite, hair loss, digestive problems such as diarrhea, chronic fatigue syndrome, nervous dysfunction, premature menopause in women or premature andropause in men, weight gain or loss, poor concentration and memory problems.
To enjoy the benefits of Zinc it is recommended to consume foods that are rich in its content. Some of these foods are oysters, clams, dark chocolate, oatmeal, hazelnuts, almonds, peanuts, pumpkin seeds, chickpeas and tofu. Also beef, pork, lamb, liver, cheese, turkey and chicken are good sources of Zinc.
If you feel you have low Zinc levels, consult your doctor. There are vitamin supplements and infusions that can supply your body with what it needs. Remember that maintaining an optimal immune system is essential when facing diseases and enjoying good health.