A GREAT COMBINATION, ZINC AND YOUR PERSONAL FITNESS PLAN…
There are countless supplements, diets and exercise plans thrown at us on a daily basis through the media. No wonder it’s so easy to become confused as to what you really need or what’s really good for us. It goes without saying a healthy balanced diet and the right amount of exercise will always act as a good foundation. But in terms of supplements there is one we simply can’t do without. In fact even a small deficiency can have a big bearing on our long-term health.
Zinc is one of nature’s wonders and boot campers should always ensure they have the right balance, in order to ensure their exercise regime works to it’s fullest benefit. Not only can it help the immune system, it can also help you lose weight consistently over time. So let’s look more closely at the properties of Zinc as a supplement.
THE IMMUNE SYSTEM
In simple terms, the immune system works by firing up your own bodies defences in the shape of white blood cells, mucus membranes and even the skin. This potent arsenal can ward off and destroy all manner of germs and bacteria responsible for causing illness. In short, we couldn’t hope to survive without it. But just like everything else it needs nourishing and balancing. This is where Zinc comes in as it aids T cell function, reduces inflammation and helps with protein synthesis of the red and white blood cells. As we get older the immune system is slower to react to infection and we carry more inflammation in our bodies. This is why even a small reduction in zinc levels can be crucial.
TAKE A LOOK AT THIS CONCLUSIVE STUDY
The Journal of Leukocyte Biology reported on a Zinc study carried out in 2009, proving just how vital the supplement is to our immune systems. Healthy volunteers were given either Zinc supplement or a placebo to study the effects of zinc on T cell activation. After isolating T cells from the blood, scientists stimulated infection under laboratory conditions. They found those T cells related to ingestion of the zinc supplement had a higher activation in fighting infection. This is why Zinc is so important to our immune systems.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
According to the United States Department of Agriculture, Studies on humans have revealed consistent amounts of Zinc and magnesium are needed to help build muscular strength and endurance. They can also help efficient heart and lung function. Diets rich in these two supplements can aid peak physical performance.
ZINC AND WEIGHT LOSS
Sports scientists will tell you losing weight is very possible by combining, strength training, a smart diet and good supplementation. You’ll find this to be the case at boot-camp too, and Zinc has been proven to boost your metabolism. More importantly, it assists the body in the production of enzymes used to protect the cells and supports hormone levels. Zinc can help you elevate protein levels and detoxify the body. And we mustn’t forget the fact it can increase insulin sensitivity. All of these are vital when you’re on a disciplined exercise programme. The right levels of Zinc taken alongside magnesium and Vitamin D can have a wonderful effect on your performance and all round general health.
A CONCLUSIVE WEIGHT LOSS STUDY
The Journal of Nutrition reported on a 1986 study involving six volunteers who took 16.5 mg’s of Zinc supplement for 21 days. They were then given 5.5 mg’s of the supplement for a further 54 days. It was clearly found the lower levels of zinc slowed down their basic metabolic rate. It was clear from this, zinc deficiency can decrease the level of calorie burning.
SO WHAT ELSE CAN ZINC DO?
The fact is Zinc can be found in every tissue of the body, tells you all you need to know about it’s value. This is why any deficiency will have a negative effect on your body. Apart from it’s role as a superb antioxidant, the right amount can balance your libido and help protect you against the effects of stress. It can actually combat ageing and safeguard against both cancer and diabetes. All of this can help you feel generally stronger both physically and psychologically
HOW CAN ZINC SUPPLEMENT BE TAKEN?
Well just like many other supplements Zinc can be taken either in capsule or tablet form. It’s also available as a topical supplement or as a nasal spray. You’re local health store can help you with this, though 30 mg’s each day is generally recommended by medical experts. Your own doctor should be able to give you extra advice with this in mind.
WHERE CAN I FIND IT NATURALLY?
Cooked oysters and other sea foods, lamb and beef, mushrooms, beans, nuts, pork and chicken and also various seeds , are all foods carrying the highest amount of zinc. There are many more of course and a good dietician can give you the very best advice.
THE CONCLUSION
Zinc supplement is worth it’s weight in gold for the benefits it gives to your immune system alone. But if you want to improve your boot-camp performance and stay healthy, the new you should make a close friend of this gift from nature.
Always ensure you take the right dosage of the supplement and include it as part of a healthy, balanced lifestyle incorporating lots of the right kind of exercise. In short this is a supplement we must have – so the future really is bright – the future is zinc!
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By Darren Tyrie, North East Personal Trainer and Biosignature Practitioner
REFERENCES:
The journal of Leukocyte Biology, Aug. 2009
The Journal of Nutrition, 1986
United States department of Agricultural Studies