
One 2014 study in 72 people with AMD showed that taking 50 mg of zinc sulfate daily for 3 months slowed the progression of the disease. Zinc supplements are often used to slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and help protect against vision loss and blindness. Macular degeneration is a common eye disease and one of the leading causes of vision loss around the globe. Further, some studies suggest that low levels of serum zinc may be associated with a higher risk of coronary heart disease, though findings remain inconclusive. However, research on the effects of supplements on blood pressure is limited. As such, they could potentially help prevent heart disease.Īnother analysis of nine studies showed that zinc supplements could reduce systolic blood pressure levels, which is the top number of blood pressure readings. They may even lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels.Ī review of 24 studies found that zinc supplements decreased levels of total and LDL (bad) cholesterol and blood triglycerides. Some research shows that taking zinc may improve several risk factors for heart disease. Heart disease is a serious health condition, accounting for roughly 33% of deaths worldwide. Zinc supplements are also often favored over other treatment methods, as they’re inexpensive, effective, and associated with far fewer side effects.
Ionic zinc skin#
Zinc supplements are often used to promote skin health and treat common skin conditions like acne.Ī type of zinc called zinc sulfate has been proven especially useful for decreasing symptoms of mild to moderate acne.Īccording to one review, not only did people with acne tend to have lower blood levels of zinc compared with those without acne, but zinc supplements were also able to decrease the average amount of inflammatory bumps caused by the condition. Other research shows that zinc may help reduce insulin resistance, which can improve your body’s ability to use insulin efficiently to maintain normal blood sugar levels. One review reported that low zinc levels could be linked to impaired blood sugar levels and type 2 diabetes. Some research suggests that zinc may help keep blood sugar levels steady and improve your body’s sensitivity to insulin. Insulin is the hormone responsible for transporting sugar from your bloodstream to your tissues. Zinc is well known for its role in blood sugar management and insulin secretion. Zinc may also act as an antioxidant, reducing inflammation and protecting against chronic conditions like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.Īccording to a review of 28 studies, some evidence suggests that taking zinc could even prevent symptoms and shorten the duration of certain respiratory tract infections.


One review of 7 studies showed that zinc lozenges containing 80–92 mg of zinc may reduce the duration of the common cold by up to 33%. Thus, it could potentially help treat certain types of infection if used when symptoms first appear. Many over-the-counter (OTC) medications and natural remedies feature zinc due to its ability to boost immune function and fight inflammation. If you suspect that you may have a deficiency, a doctor can test your blood levels to determine if a supplement could be beneficial. If you’re getting enough zinc in your diet, supplements may not be necessary. Studies have found that taking zinc supplements effectively increases zinc levels in the blood.Īccording to one review, most cases of zinc deficiency are easily corrected with supplements and dietary modifications, leading to a rapid improvement of any symptoms caused by deficiency.įor example, diarrhea may improve within just 24 hours, whereas skin lesions typically heal within 1–2 weeks after people start taking the supplements.

Symptoms of a zinc deficiency include decreased immunity, hair loss, poor appetite, diarrhea, and slow wound healing. People with restrictive diets, impaired nutrient absorption, or certain health conditions may be more susceptible. Though zinc deficiency is uncommon, the mineral is considered an essential nutrient, meaning that your body is unable to produce it on its own. Zinc supplements are often used to help treat and prevent zinc deficiency. Zinc is vital for many aspects of health and has been associated with a variety of benefits.
