Zinc can starve deadly bacteria
Dr. Berg points out that zinc is not just a typical micronutrient; its role in the immune system is almost "defense-level." According to research published in * Nature Chemical Biology * , zinc can effectively inhibit Streptococcus pneumoniae , a common but potentially deadly bacterium . This bacterium is normally harmless, residing in the throat and sinuses, but when the body is zinc deficient, immune system weakened, or under chronic stress, it transforms into a highly aggressive pathogen. Zinc blocks the bacteria's mechanism of absorbing manganese, making it impossible for them to survive, thus achieving a "starvation" effect.
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Zinc deficiency is a hidden global crisis
More than 1.1 billion people worldwide suffer from zinc deficiency. Dr. Berg points out that the main causes include:
- A diet high in grains contains phytic acid , which can hinder zinc absorption.
- Long-term stress , insulin resistance , and intestinal inflammation can accelerate zinc loss.
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A high-sugar diet and excessive estrogen can also deplete the body's zinc reserves.
When the body is deficient in zinc, immunity weakens, cortisol levels rise, and the body becomes more susceptible to infections and inflammation. Dr. Berger emphasizes, "Although only trace amounts of zinc are needed, a deficiency can cause systemic problems throughout the body."
Differences in intake sources and absorption rates
Natural sources of zinc include red meat, lamb, seafood (especially oysters), shrimp, and cheese. However, even with high-zinc foods, the human body only absorbs 20% to 40% of the zinc .
Absorption mainly occurs in the middle of the small intestine . If the intake is less than 40 mg, it will enter the bloodstream through "active transport". However, when the intake is excessive, this absorption channel will become saturated, leading to a decrease in efficiency.
When is high-dose zinc supplementation needed?
The body's need for zinc increases significantly in the following three situations:
- During an infection (such as a cold, viral or bacterial infection).
- Patients with chronic inflammation or arthritis
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People with damaged gut or weakened immune system
Some people may need to consume 100 to 200 milligrams of zinc, but doctors warn that long-term excessive intake of high doses of zinc can lead to copper deficiency, anemia, or gastrointestinal discomfort . Therefore, it is recommended to combine zinc with other trace minerals to maintain balance.
Optimal absorption form of zinc
Dr. Berger recommends choosing organic chelated forms that are highly absorbable and gut-friendly, including:
- Zinc citrate
- Zinc glycinate
- Zinc Methionine
- Zinc gluconate
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Zinc acetate
These forms of zinc have absorption rates of 60% to 80% , far exceeding those of traditional zinc oxide or zinc sulfate.
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Zinc, the bulletproof layer of the immune system
Zinc is more than just a nutritional supplement; it's a guardian of the immune system. It lowers cortisol, reduces the effects of stress, and helps white blood cells fight off foreign pathogens. Dr. Berger concludes, "We can't avoid environmental threats, but we can make our bodies stronger. Sufficient zinc is key to making the immune system a 'bulletproof shield.'"
YouTube source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBzSXBM5Kys&list=PLlWQQPXW0GbzIXpSEiG6EUMK0r-iyAYJ8&index=6
YouTube Column: Dr. Berger's Chinese Health Knowledge
