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Zinc Deficiency Promotes Inflammation- Chronic Disease

Zinc Deficiency Promotes Inflammation- Chronic Disease

Just published research from Oregon State University shows that zinc, an important mineral in human health, affects how the immune system responds to stimulation, especially inflammation.

This study reveals a pathway by which zinc deficiency could play a role in chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer and diabetes that involve inflammation.

Such diseases most often show up in older adults, who are more at risk for zinc deficiency. In the study the researchers showed that zinc deficiency caused improper immune cell activation and dysregulation of  IL-6,  a protein that affects the inflammatory response in the cell.

“When you take away zinc, the cells that control inflammation appear to activate and respond differently; this causes the cells to promote more inflammation,” said Professor Emily Ho, lead author of the study from the OSU College of Public Health and Human Sciences,

Zinc is  required for many biological processes in the body , including growth and development, and immunity. It is naturally found in protein-rich foods such as meat and shellfish, with oysters particularly known for their high content.

In the U.S.  of those 65 years of age and older, approximately 40 percent do not consume enough zinc according to Dr Ho, and older adults may  also not absorb or utilize zinc well, making them even more susceptible to the effects of zinc deficiency.

“It’s a double-whammy for older individuals,” said Dr Ho. “We think zinc deficiency is probably a bigger problem than most people realize,” she said. Preventing that deficiency is important.”

Older people, more susceptible to chronic disease from many age related mechanisms are wise to ask their physician to check their zinc status and consider supplementation if deficient.

The findings were published in the journal Molecular Nutrition & Food Research, 2015. 

“For more of the latest in nutritional/ lifestyle research check all of my blog posts at www.drsobo.com/blog

For the best care in Integrative Medicine call Henry C. Sobo, M.D., at 203-348-8805 or write us at [email protected]