Zinc

Description
Zinc is an essential trace mineral that has functions within about 300 different enzymes. As such, zinc plays a role in practically all biochemical pathways and physiological processes. More than 90% of the body’s zinc is stored in the bones (30%) and muscles (60%), but zinc is also found in virtually all body tissues. The richest dietary sources of zinc are seafood (especially oysters), meat, fish, eggs, and poultry.

Claims

• Wound healing
• immune system support
• Reduces length and severity of colds
• Supports a healthy prostate gland (prevents benign prostatic hyperplasia – BPH)
• Increases fertility (sperm production)

Theory
Because zinc is an essential part of nearly 300 different biochemical pathways, structure/function claims can be made for the nutrient’s role in a wide variety of processes including digestion, wound healing, energy production, growth, cellular repair, collagen synthesis, bone strength, cognitive function, carbohydrate metabolism (glucose utilization and insulin production), and reproductive function. Even mild zinc deficiency has been associated with depressed immunity, decreased sperm count and impaired memory. Perhaps the most popular claim for zinc lately is for its role in immunity, where zinc may interfere with the replication of the cold virus (rhinovirus).

The active components in Panax ginseng are thought to be ginsenosides, a family of triterpenoid saponins. In general, most of the top-quality ginseng products, whether whole root or extract, are standardized for ginsenoside content. It has been theorized that ginseng’s action in the body is due to its stimulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis to secrete adrenal corticotropic hormone (ACTH). ACTH has the ability to bind directly to brain cells and can affect a variety of behaviors in the body. These behaviors might include motivation, vitality, performance and arousal.

Scientific Support
Mild to moderate zinc deficiency can lead to significant reductions in ability to take up and use oxygen, remove carbon dioxide and generate energy during high intensity exercise. Zinc has also been linked to enhanced bone formation and reduction of bone loss – both alone and in combination with plant isoflavones such as genistein. When used together with isoflavones, it appears that the isoflavonoid effect on bone is enhanced by zinc and may have a potent role in prevention of bone loss.

Safety
Chronic horny goat weed herbal supplementation with zinc at levels 2-3 times the current RDA (15 mg/day) should not be expected to pose any significant adverse side effects. However, when taking a Viagra alternative, high doses of zinc are not recommended for periods of more than two weeks due to concerns of immune system depression, interference with copper absorption and other long-term health effects such as increased risk for heart disease.

Dosage
The Daily Value for zinc is 15mg per day, a level that should be adequate for support of bone metabolism and optimal physical performance and sexual confidence. As therapy for colds, however, higher levels are required – in the range of 13-23 mg 2-3 times daily. It is also important to note that other supplements, particularly high levels of calcium and iron, can decrease zinc absorption.