One study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry found a biological explanation for age-related reductions in zinc status that may lead to impaired immune system functioning and systemic inflammation, which are contributing factors to chronic diseases.
The study, which used cell cultures and a mouse model, suggests that improving zinc status through diet and supplementation may be a viable strategy for reducing the risk of inflammatory diseases.
“When the body has insufficient access to zinc, it’s hit on many levels due to the many ways in which zinc typically functions to protect the body,” said research scientist Dr Ellen Fung.
“Zinc plays a significant role as an antioxidant in the body.
“Therefore, in a zinc-deficient state, there will be an excess of oxidants present, leading to increased DNA damage.”