Is Zinc Really Good for the Immune System?

Supplements and lozenges feature zinc as their key immune-promoting ingredient. The question is, beyond the zinc we already have in our bodies, does supplementing with this mineral help our immune system? This study investigated the impact of zinc on a group of individuals 55 and older.  Zinc deficiency, immune dysfunction, and susceptibility to infections, and increased oxidative stress are more common in older adults. Zinc is an effective anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent.

This clinical trial involved fifty healthy subjects of both sexes aged 55–87 years old. The zinc-supplemented group received zinc gluconate (45 mg) orally for 12 months. Incidence of infections during the supplementation period was documented. The generation of inflammatory agents and oxidative stress markers and the blood levels of zinc were measured in the beginning and after supplementation.

Results showed that the incidence of infections and plasma oxidative stress markers were significantly lower in the zinc-supplemented than in the placebo group. Plasma zinc levels were significantly higher in the zinc-supplemented than in the placebo group.

Researchers concluded that after zinc supplementation, the incidence of infections was significantly lower, plasma zinc was significantly higher and oxidative stress markers were significantly lower in the zinc-supplemented than in the placebo group.1

References:
1. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol. 85, No. 3, 837-844, March 2007