The Essential Toxin: Impact of Zinc on Human Health

The Essential Toxin: Impact of Zinc on Human Health

26 March 2010 | Laura M. Plum, Lothar Rink and Hajo Haase
Zinc is an essential trace element, not a toxic metal, but excessive exposure can lead to toxicity. While acute zinc intoxication is rare, zinc deficiency is widespread and has significant health impacts, affecting growth, immunity, and neurological development. Zinc homeostasis is tightly regulated, with mechanisms that prevent excessive accumulation. Zinc is involved in various cellular processes, including apoptosis and neuronal death, and its imbalance can lead to cell death. Zinc deficiency is more common than intoxication and can result in severe health issues, including anemia, neutropenia, and immune dysfunction. Long-term high-dose zinc supplementation can interfere with copper absorption, leading to copper deficiency, which has its own health consequences. Zinc is also involved in the regulation of immune function, and its deficiency can impair immune responses. In the brain, zinc plays a role in neuronal death, particularly in conditions like ischemia or trauma. Zinc deficiency is a major public health issue, affecting millions globally, and is more prevalent than zinc toxicity. Zinc supplementation is essential for health, but excessive intake can be harmful. Overall, zinc is a vital nutrient, and maintaining its balance is crucial for human health.Zinc is an essential trace element, not a toxic metal, but excessive exposure can lead to toxicity. While acute zinc intoxication is rare, zinc deficiency is widespread and has significant health impacts, affecting growth, immunity, and neurological development. Zinc homeostasis is tightly regulated, with mechanisms that prevent excessive accumulation. Zinc is involved in various cellular processes, including apoptosis and neuronal death, and its imbalance can lead to cell death. Zinc deficiency is more common than intoxication and can result in severe health issues, including anemia, neutropenia, and immune dysfunction. Long-term high-dose zinc supplementation can interfere with copper absorption, leading to copper deficiency, which has its own health consequences. Zinc is also involved in the regulation of immune function, and its deficiency can impair immune responses. In the brain, zinc plays a role in neuronal death, particularly in conditions like ischemia or trauma. Zinc deficiency is a major public health issue, affecting millions globally, and is more prevalent than zinc toxicity. Zinc supplementation is essential for health, but excessive intake can be harmful. Overall, zinc is a vital nutrient, and maintaining its balance is crucial for human health.
Reach us at info@study.space
[slides] The Essential Toxin%3A Impact of Zinc on Human Health | StudySpace