Zinco by Yamamoto® Research is a zinc supplement in the picolinate form, characterised by excellent bioavailability for our body, unlike more common forms of zinc. Zinc is a micronutrient that is essential for the body: it is involved in DNA synthesis, immune function, protein synthesis, cell division, wound healing and has an antioxidant and defence action against viruses, bacteria and fungi. This precious mineral is also involved in the production of thyroid hormones (a lack of zinc prevents the conversion of T4 into T3), insulin and thymulin, and is involved in the synthesis of male sex hormones such as testosterone. It also contributes to maintaining healthy skin, hair and nails and is very important for development and growth, especially in children.
Zinc is an essential trace element that is often underestimated, despite the fact that the human body contains about 2 grams of it and it is involved in over 300 enzymes that participate in DNA/RNA synthesis, in the regulation of growth and development processes, and in immune, digestive and metabolic function. The enzyme carbonate dehydratase, in particular, allows the body to eliminate the carbon dioxide produced in the tissues. Zinc is also important for the formation of collagenases and for the regulation of genome transcription processes, cellular signalling and hormone release, improving insulin activity.
What are the symptoms of zinc deficiency?
Zinc deficiency can cause various symptoms. Here are some of the most common:
- Loss of appetite;
- Weight loss;
- Fatigue and weakness;
- Growth and development problems in children;
- Difficulty healing wounds;
- Changes in taste and smell;
- Hair loss;
- Dry and scaly skin;
- Fertility problems;
- Recurrent infections.
Who is most at risk of developing a zinc deficiency? For whom is zinc intake recommended?
- Children and adolescents;
- People suffering from malnutrition or anorexia nervosa;
- People with type I and II diabetes, conditions that increase urinary excretion of
zinc;
- People with chronic diarrhoea or intestinal diseases characterised by inflammation and/or
malabsorption such as Crohn's disease or coeliac disease;
- Alcoholics, especially if suffering from cirrhosis of the liver;
- Athletes subject to intense endurance work with high sweating;
- Individuals undergoing pharmacological therapy with tetracyclines, quinolones, bisphosphonates, chelators,
anticonvulsants and diuretics;
- Individuals who take iron and calcium supplements, which can significantly reduce
significantly reduce zinc absorption;
- Strict vegans with a high consumption of cereals and legumes: the phytate content of these foods
interferes with zinc absorption, drastically reducing it.
Is zinc really useful for fighting the symptoms of the common cold?
Zinc supplements are often used to treat the common cold and many studies have shown that zinc can actually block the replication of rhinoviruses, which are responsible for about 50% of cases of the common cold. Zinc interferes with the reproduction of cold viruses in the nasal mucosa, preventing their development and
counteracting the symptoms of a cold. If taken at the first symptoms, zinc can significantly reduce recovery time and cold symptoms. This has been scientifically proven in several studies.
Is it true that zinc is involved in our reproductive health and fertility?
Research has shown that maintaining adequate zinc levels in the body can be associated with higher testosterone levels and better sperm health. On the contrary, a zinc deficiency can cause a reduction in testosterone production in men. Studies have shown that zinc supplementation can increase serum testosterone levels, especially in men with low baseline concentrations. Even after intense physical activity, especially aerobic activity, zinc supplementation can preserve testosterone levels in the body, which might otherwise decrease.
I've heard that zinc can also help in cases of PCOS. Is this really the case?
PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is an endocrine condition that affects women of reproductive age and can cause hormonal dysfunction, irregular menstrual cycles, weight gain and infertility. There is evidence to suggest that zinc may play a positive role in managing PCOS-related symptoms. In particular, a study published in the journal ‘Biological Trace Element Research’ showed that women with PCOS have lower zinc levels than healthy women, and that zinc supplementation can improve hormone levels and ovarian function and reduce the severity of acne. A study published in the ‘Journal of Research in Medical Sciences’ suggested that zinc supplementation could improve the lipid profile and reduce the risk of heart disease in women with PCOS. It also appears that zinc may participate in the regulation of the menstrual cycle. ** Serum zinc levels during the luteal phase (about 2 weeks before the period) are significantly lower than in the follicular phase, and have also been shown to be lower in women with PMS (premenstrual syndrome).
