Zinc is a mineral that stimulates the activity of approximately 300 enzymes, which are substances that promote biochemical reactions in your body.1, 2 These reactions are essential for the formation of superoxide dismutase, one of the body’s most important free radical scavengers. Zinc also promotes immune function, 3-6 taste sensitivity, 7-9 protein and DNA synthesis, 1, 10, 11 insulin production, 12, 13 reproductive organ development and sperm motility.14-16 Zinc also supports normal growth and development during pregnancy, childhood, and adolescence.17-19
Maintaining adequate levels of zinc is equally important to aging adults.20-22 As people grow older, their immune function declines, partly due to the decreasing size and function of the thymus gland. Evidence suggests that zinc may help to maintain healthy function of the thymus gland in elderly people. 23 Scientists have also found evidence that a zinc deficiency in elderly adults may contribute to impaired immune function with aging, or immunosenescence.24-26 These findings suggest that zinc plays a critical role in supporting healthy immune function with age.
Zinc Lozenges provide premium-grade zinc as gluconate and oxide in a pleasant citrus-orange naturally flavored lozenge.
References
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13. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2007 Jan 24;(1):CD005525.
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15. Pak J Biol Sci. 2009 Jan 15;12(2):134-9.
16. Nutr Res. 2009 Feb;29(2):82-8.
17. J Trace Elem Med Biol. 2005;19(1):29-35.
18. Nutr Health. 2007;19(1-2):85-102.
19. Am J Clin Nutr. 2007 Feb;85(2):614S-620S
20. Biogerontology. 2006 Oct-Dec;7(5-6):429-35.
21. Exp Gerontol. 2008 May;43(5):493-8.
22. Rejuvenation Res. 2008 Feb;11(1):227-37.
23. Immun Ageing. 2009 Jun 12;6:9.
24. Exp Gerontol. 2008 May;43(5):452-61.
25. Nutr Rev. 2010 Jan;68(1):30-7.
26. J Nutr. 2009 Jan;139(1):113-9.
