Zinc & Autoimmune Diseases

Zinc is vital to immune system health, among a host of other things, and zinc deficiency is listed as the 11th largest health risk factor worldwide by the World Health Organization. For those with autoimmune diseases, zinc is the most common micro-deficiency, but often gets overlooked. In a large meta-analysis of 62 (out of over 26,000) publications on zinc deficiency and autoimmunity relating to inflammation were meticulously broken down and studied. The results? About 70% of those with autoimmune diseases tested deficient for zinc levels. 

So, what exactly is zinc, and what does it do for inflammation? Zinc is a trace element that helps regulate over 300 enzyme functions in our bodies. It cannot be stored by the body, so it is important to consume zinc frequently. It also is responsible for cell communication, differentiation, and survival. Among other things, zinc also helps cell division and growth, DNA transcribing, the making of certain proteins, vitamin absorption, insulin production, and inflammation regulation. If deficient in zinc, inflammation increases and simultaneously makes it harder to fight off foreign bacteria and viruses. 

One of the most important factors for people suffering from autoimmune diseases (especially IBD), is that zinc has been shown to help regulate the permeability of the gut walls. This is also known as ‘leaky gut’, and is a major factor in trying to control Crohn’s and Colitis. Zinc helps reduce inflammatory reactions throughout the body. This is seen in reactive proteins and your Tumor Necrosis Factor, which many biologics aim to regulate.  

So, how do you know if your zinc levels are sufficient? A simple blood test ordered by your physician will do the trick. If for whatever reason your doctor doesn’t want to run the test, or it isn’t approved by insurance you can always source out an at home service to give you results. The optimal range is between 80-110 µg/dL, although 70 is still considered to be healthy.  

Have you found that you are deficient in zinc? Well, the good news is it’s easy to add zinc to your everyday SCD (Specific Carbohydrate Diet)! While oysters and liver have the most zinc, if they aren’t your favorite don’t sweat it! You can find good sources of zinc in a variety of foods including; almonds, cashews, lentils, red meat, salmon, shrimp, eggs, spinach, asparagus, and beets to name a few! If you are experiencing IBD symptoms or are having a hard time finding foods with zinc, you can always take a supplement instead. Just be sure to read the other ingredients and make sure any binders or additives are SCD compliant. As the second most abundant metal in the body, zinc is just as important as Vitamin C for immune regulation and support. Don’t forget to have your levels checked!      

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