A report published in the May 2015 issue of Molecular Nutrition and Food Research reveals that being zinc deficient results in immune dysfunction. Many Australians do not have enough zinc because our soils are low in the mineral. In addition as we age our ability to absorb zinc declines, and systemic inflammation increases. Professor Emily Ho of Oregon State University examined the effects of zinc deficiency in cell cultures of human monocytes (immune cells), and in ageing mice. When they had insufficient zinc, she observed an increase in the production of the inflammatory cytokines interleukin 1beta, and interleukin 6 on exposure to an inflammation-provoking substance. In the aged mice, zinc deficiency also increased gene expression for the pro- inflammatory Interleukin 6. If you have symptoms of chronic inflammation whatever your age, call Sunshine Coast Nutritionist & Kinesiologist Karen Emans on 0408748532 for a personal consultation and have your zinc levels tested in a simple taste test.
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AuthorKaren Emans is a Clinical Nutritionist, Homeopath and Kinesiologist with over 20 years experience. |