What is zinc used for?

Zinc is a mineral that the body uses for a variety of different tasks, including immune system enhancement, the functioning of over 300 different enzymes, sensory perception, wound healing, insulin regulation, vitamin A release and thyroid function. Zinc also serves as an antioxidant by protecting cells from free radicals.

Zinc helps in treating many different diseases and conditions, including plaque and gingivitis, Wilson's disease, high cholesterol, herpes, fungal scalp infections, Down syndrome complications, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), acne vulgaris, zinc deficiency, gastric disorder and malnutrition symptoms like diarrhea. Some studies show some correlation between zinc and the treatment of anorexia nervosa, hair loss, beta-thalessemia, bad breath, boils, blood disorders, burns, closed head injuries, chronic prostatitis (CP), cognitive deficits in children, Crohn's disease, common cold, dandruff, diabetic neuropathy, diabetes, diaper rash, athletic performance, eczema, growth, Gilbert's syndrome, hepatic encephalopathy, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C viral infection, hypothyroidism, kidney function, infertility, ulcers, kwashiorkor, leprosy, lower respiratory infections in children, liver cirrhosis, macular degeneration, menstrual cramps, malaria, muscle cramps, arsenic poisoning, trichomoniasis, parasites, pregnancy, radiation-induced mucositis, psoriasis, respiratory disease, rheumatoid arthritis, skin damage, taste perception, stomatitis, tinnitus and viral warts.