Unique Properties
Zinc is an essential trace mineral needed by the body for a diverse range of functions. While large amounts of zinc are deposited in bone and muscle, these stores are not easily available to the rest of the body, making daily intake and absorption vital. Dietary intake among Americans frequently falls below what is recommended. Additionally, certain dietary factors, such as phytic acid found in grains and high fiber foods, can interfere with the body's absorption of minerals. Individuals susceptible to zinc deficiency include the elderly, the immuno-compromised, those on parenteral nutrition, and burn victims.
Because zinc is ionized in the gut prior to absorption, Dr. Freire's supplies 30 mg of zinc as Zinc Bisglycinate, a totally reacted, nutritionally functional zinc amino acid chelate. In this proprietary TRAACS® formulation, zinc is coupled with two glycine molecules to facilitate its absorption across the intestinal wall and reduce interference from phytates and competing minerals. This form has been shown to be readily absorbed by the body.
Uses for Zinc
Hundreds of enzymes rely on zinc for their normal activities in cellular metabolism. Zinc is a cofactor in carbohydrate and protein metabolism. It is also related to the normal absorption and actions of the B vitamins.
The important role of zinc in protein metabolism is connected to its essential role in wound healing, normal inflammatory response, along with normal fetal development and growth and development during childhood and adolescence. The mineral is instrumental for the maintenance and integrity of skin and mucous membranes and plays an important role in collagen formation and healthy tissue development.
Zinc provides immune support, promoting healthy neutrophil, natural killer cell and T-lymphocyte function. Studies show that zinc helps the body defend against infection.
Zinc supports healthy vision and sensory perception, including normal taste and smell. It contributes to healthy prostatic function and supports reproductive health, as it is required for sperm maturation. The body's endocrine system depends on adequate zinc to support the regulation of insulin activity and the conversion of thyroxine (T4) to the active thyroid hormone triiodothyronine (T3).
References
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- Jensen, Ned L. "Amino Acid Chelates: Their Mechanisms of Action and Key Aspects of Preparations." Journal of Applied Nutrition 31.1 (1979): 24-36.
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- Bonham, Maxine, Jacqueline M. O'connor, Liadhan B. Mcanena, Paula M. Walsh, C. Stephen Downes, Bernadette M. Hannigan, and J. J. Strain. "Zinc Supplementation Has No Effect on Lipoprotein Metabolism, Hemostasis, and Putative Indices of Copper Status in Healthy Men." BTER Biological Trace Element Research 93.1-3 (2003): 75-86.
- Pelton R, LaValle JB, Hawkins EB, et al. Drug-Induced Nutrient Depletion Handbook. 2nd ed. Hudson, OH: LexiComp, Inc 2001.
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- Yamaguchi, Masayoshi. "Acculturation Plays a Pivotal Role in the Health Status and Behaviors of Latinos in the United States." Edorium Journals 1 (2015): 1-8. Edorium Journals Nutritional Diet.
- Molokwu, Caleb O., and Yang V. Li. "Zinc Homeostasis and Bone Mineral Density." Ohio Research and Clinical Review (2006): 7-15.
- Fung, Ellen B., Janet L. Kwiatkowski, James N. Huang, Ginny Gildengorin, Janet C. King, and Elliot P. Vichinsky. "Zinc Supplementation Improves Bone Density in Patients with Thalassemia: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Trial." American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 98 (2013): 960-71.