Benefits of Zinc for Kids (And Grown-Ups)
Strong, healthy kids get plenty of zinc! Zinc supplementation is a hot topic these days because of its effect on the immune system in general and Covid-19 in particular. But what is it, and why do we need it?
What Does Zinc Do In The Body?
Zinc is an essential mineral. It is needed for protein synthesis; that means zinc is especially important in kids to support the growth of strong, healthy tissues.
Immune function, skin health, wound healing, mental health, energy metabolism, hormone balance, and digestion all rely on proteins, and therefore rely on zinc, to work optimally. Zinc is found in bones, muscles, teeth, skin, hair, white blood cells, liver, testes, and hundreds of enzymes.
Zinc is also a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory and can help with cardiovascular health and liver health. In addition, zinc is needed for DNA and RNA synthesis, cell division, and a proper sense of taste and smell!
What Are The Benefits of Zinc for Kids (& Grown-Ups)?
What are the benefits of zinc for kids? It is tempting to say “everything” because it is one of those minerals involved in almost every process of the body!
However, in simple terms, for kids zinc is important for:
- Healthy growth and development
- Absorption of nutrients
- Creating a robust immune response
- Skin health and wound healing
- Sense of smell & taste (and therefore appetite)
As they grow into adolescence and adulthood, zinc becomes more important for:
- Maintaining a healthy balance of hormones
- Blood sugar control
- Inflammatory balance
- Optimal fertility, especially for men
Zinc is an important essential mineral and its benefits reach far beyond immunity and the current pandemic.
Here’s another post to help you learn how to incorporate more zinc into your family’s diet.
References:
https://www.webmd.com/children/news/20020524/zinc-helps-kids-grow
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Zinc-HealthProfessional/
https://www.naturalmedicinejournal.com/journal/2011-07/zinc-bottom-line-monograph
