Zinc

Zinc is a mineral that participates in thousands of bodily functions and is the only metal that appears in all types of enzymes. Zinc is an essential mineral, which means that the body cannot synthesize it on its own and it needs to be obtained through diet. Prolonged zinc deficiency can lead to serious disorders, such as growth retardation, delayed sexual maturity, prostate diseases, and the development of atherosclerosis. Among all minerals, zinc has proven to be the most important in maintaining the immune system because it is involved in nearly all aspects of immunity. When zinc levels are low, the number of T cells decreases, as do the levels of thymulin (a thymus hormone) and most white blood cells. Zinc is necessary for the creation of body cells, making it particularly important for the growth and development of a child during pregnancy, childhood, and adolescence. For men, it is important for prostate health and fertility (the highest concentration of zinc in the body is found in male reproductive organs), and for women, it can alleviate (pre)menstrual symptoms.