One of the reasons for the increased risk of diseases in old age is the low level of zinc in them. As per the research, which was published in ‘The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition’, states that decreasing the level of zinc reduces the immunity in the old age. In such a situation, if the elderly, on the advice of a specialist, take regular zinc supplements, then the number of their T-cells will increase, which will not only improve their health but also reduce the risk of diseases caused by infection. In old age, men need 11 milligrams and women need around 8 milligrams of zinc a day. Hence, zinc is equally important like other nutrients in our body.
Importance of Zinc in body
Diarrhoea treatment
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends zinc supplements for babies who frequently suffer from diarrhoea. There are evidences that it can reduce the symptoms of diarrhoea, especially in people who consume a less nutritious diet.
Heal wounds faster
Low levels of zinc are often seen in people suffering from chronic wounds or ulcers. For people whose wounds take a long time in healing, they are recommended with zinc supplements by doctors. According to a 2018 research report published by NCBI, zinc plays an important role in everything from skin repair to wound healing.
Helpful for Lifestyle diseases
Zinc has antioxidant properties, so it may help in reducing oxidative stress. Scientists believe there is a link between oxidative stress and other aspects of chronic diseases, such as high blood pressure, diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
Improves sexual health
Men who have low zinc levels in their bodies can develop infertility and other sexual health problems. According to a research conducted in 2018, zinc was shown to be essential for male sexual health. Reasons for this may include zinc’s roles as an antioxidant and hormone balancer.
While zinc deficiency has been shown to have negative effects, too much zinc can cause toxicity, which can be harmful to sperm. To maintain your sexual health, you should consider zinc supplements and talk to your doctor.
Prevents Osteoporosis
According to a study published in 2020, zinc plays an essential role in bone formation and health. Plus it can help prevent osteoporosis.
Neurological benefits
A small 2020 study concluded that there may be a link between low zinc levels and neurological symptoms. Researchers included 63 people who had symptoms of headache, tingling and peripheral neuropathy, as well as zinc and other micronutrient deficiencies. The participants found improvement in their neurological symptoms after treatment for these deficiencies. However, the researchers acknowledge the need for further research.
Sources of Zinc
Cottage cheese-
People consume cheese for the fulfillment of protein. But you must also remember this. Along with protein, calcium and vitamins, zinc is also found in it. Therefore, you can also use paneer i.e. dairy product, in which milk is curd.
Sesame-
Consuming sesame also provides zinc to our body. Sesame seeds can be consumed black or white. Sesame seeds contain all the essential nutrients except vitamins A, C. Along with zinc, vitamin B6 and iron are also found in sufficient amount in it.
Also read: Winter is bringing back Delicious Guavas; Know the Health Benefits of It
Millet-
By the way, people consume millet more in the cold season. Because it gets a little hot. But people do not know that zinc is enough in it. Millet is rich in super nutrients and zinc. It is rich in fiber and protein. Consuming millet is very beneficial for health.
Black gram –
Black gram is very beneficial for the body. There is sufficient amount of protein and zinc in it along with fiber.
