Are you among the bajillion people in America who want to improve their health? I’m sure my Hot Mess Press colleagues can attest to the fact that it’s difficult to write an entire article these days without mentioning that word! You know the word I mean, right? (Starts with C and ends in RONA.) Well, I’m not going to get away with it this time because I need to mention that zinc has been shown to be part of a highly effective treatment program for those who contract that illness, especially if you take it early on.
Zinc is a nutrient your body needs, not just to fight “the Rona” but to build a strong immune system, too. This nutrient is a powerhouse when it comes to fighting viruses and bacterial infections. It also manufactures protein and Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). This powerful nutrient also helps wounds heal and regulates blood sugar. You can get sufficient amounts of zinc by eating the right kind of food.
It is not a myth — dark chocolate is good for you
If you’re one of those people who like to down two or three Snickers bars a day while touting the benefits of eating chocolate, I’m not so sure you’re healthy. Dark chocolate, however, in moderate amounts, is good for you. One of the reasons why is that it is rich in zinc.
Mushroom/spinach quiche with zinc, anyone?
The next two foods I’d like to mention that are great sources of zinc in your diet are mushrooms and spinach. These two foods just so happen to complement each other, so you can use them together in a quiche, on a pizza or in a tossed salad to get your daily supply of zinc.
Who doesn’t love lobster?
Most of us consider lobster a delicacy. The next time you feel guilty about its price, don’t! It also happens to be a zinc-rich food. If you’re more of an oyster fan, you’re still OK because oysters pack a heavy zinc punch, as well!
Vegetarians often suffer from zinc deficiency
One of the easiest ways to up your intake of zinc is to eat lean meats. Studies show that vegetarians often do not get enough zinc in their diets. Red meat, as well as poultry, can help you get your levels where they need to be. If you simply will never eat meat, then you might want to choose the next options, instead.
Nuts and dairy products are rich in zinc
Cashews, especially, are good for you. These nuts, as well as almonds, pine nuts, Brazil nuts and dry-roasted pecans are also beneficial for getting more zinc into your body.
Nowadays, there’s a lot of hubbub about dairy products. Dairy products are valuable sources of zinc. I also am a big fan of raw milk! (It makes the best yogurt! Check out this article to learn how easy it is to make homemade yogurt, which is a probiotic boost for your whole family!) The stories you hear about nasty infections and illness typically have more to do with dirty milking practices than with the raw milk itself. In addition to milk, cheese, butter and other dairy products are excellent sources of zinc.
What happens if you don’t get enough?
Do you suffer from bouts of diarrhea, impotence, unexplained weight loss or lack of appetite or eye and skin sores? These are several of many symptoms that might surface if you are suffering from a zinc deficiency.
Is there such a thing as too much zinc? Yes, there is, just as there are usually adverse effects from too much of anything. For example, red wine is good for you, but that doesn’t mean you should drink a bottle every day. Coffee has health benefits, as well, but too much caffeine can definitely mess up your health. The same goes for zinc. However, it is a necessary nutrient for building immune system strength and improving your overall health. Learn more about it and make sure you’re getting enough!
