Zinc is an essential trace mineral that plays several important roles within the body. It is an essential element because your body is unable to produce it naturally. After iron, zinc is the second most abundant trace mineral in the body, and it can be found in every cell.

Zinc is used in the body for protein synthesis, gene expression, liver function support, over 100 enzymatic reactions, and immune system support. Maintaining zinc levels is essential to support immune system function and overall health.

Support Immune Health With Zinc

Your immune system is a complex network of organs, white blood cells, proteins and chemicals. The components of this system work together to help protect against environmental and seasonal threats. 

A great deal of energy is required to support this defense system, making it essential for you to make lifestyle choices that allow this system to function effectively. This includes a balanced diet, of which zinc is an important mineral to keep around. 

Zinc helps support enzyme function that is responsible for activating immune cell  activity. In doing so, zinc helps promote immune cell function and the body’s ability to respond to common problems. Zinc also helps with your body’s detoxification process, helping to support relief from any uncomfortable skin issues that can arise with weakened immune function.

Additional Health Benefits of Zinc

In addition to promoting healthy immune responses and supporting your body’s natural ability to defend against environmental threats, zinc also plays a role in other important processes in the body to support overall health.

Healthy Aging

Zinc helps to reduce occasional oxidative damage, which supports healthy cell activity and aging and can reduce common age-related issues.

Support Liver Function

Zinc plays an important role in healthy cell function and cell signaling. By supporting liver cell health, to aid in the liver’s detoxification processes.  

Skin Health

Zinc helps to support skin health when applied topically or taken orally. The skin is the body’s first line of defense, so the added support of zinc can help protect against environmental threats. 

Taking Zinc

Zinc supplements are considered safe for adult use when taken in recommended doses. These doses are 8 milligrams per day for adult women and 11 mg per day for adult men. The tolerable upper level dosage for zinc is 30 milligrams per day, but higher doses should only be taken if recommended by your doctor. 

Always consult with your doctor before adding a zinc supplement to your routine. Because zinc is an important nutrient for immune and digestive system support, maintaining proper levels is essential for healthy immune responses and promoting healthy digestion and nutrient absorption.

The Bottom Line

Your immune system works hard, so it is important to provide your immune system with the nutrients and support it needs to work at optimal levels. Adding an immune health supplement to a healthy routine that includes balanced diet, stress management, and regular exercise is an effective way to give your immune system the support it needs to best defend your health.