Our immune system is built to fight foreign cells, protecting us from various allergies and diseases. COVID-19 is still a powerful force in the world. It is essential to increase immunity by taking supplements or consuming diets. Along with Vitamin C and Vitamin D, zinc has been identified as a critical mineral for our immune system. It plays a vital role in many cellular processes and biological functions. It is necessary for over 300 enzymes and plays a crucial role in protein synthesis. It also helps with wound healing, DNA synthesis, cell division, and protein synthesis. It is essential for the senses of taste and smell. Zinc is also a key component in WBC, which fights infections.
Ironically, even though zinc is an essential nutrient for the body, it cannot produce or store it on its own. Zinc must be taken in supplement form. A large number of Indians also have lower zinc intakes than required for their optimal immune function. Zinc deficiencies can affect both adaptive and innate immune responses. Zinc deficiency can be seen in oxidant stress, an increased inflammatory process, and life-threatening situations, as well as premature cell deaths at the cellular or sub-cellular level.
Zinc is naturally found in foods and can be taken as a dietary supplement.
Zinc is most abundant in animal-based foods - oysters are the best, with poultry and meat providing the majority of the zinc in developed countries. Zinc content in plant-based foods is generally low. Vegetarian diets have a lower bioavailability than those that are not vegetarian. Vegetarian foods such as whole-grain bread and cereals are rich in phytates which bind zinc and prevent it from being absorbed. Vegetarians may benefit from specific food preparation techniques that increase the bioavailability and availability of zinc. This includes soaking beans, grains, seeds, and grains in water for several hours before cooking or allowing them to sprout. Roasting or fermenting foods is also beneficial.
Plant-based foods containing significant amounts of zinc include nuts like almonds, cashews, walnuts, cashews, and seeds like sunflower, watermelon, and pumpkin seeds. Milk and dairy products are also good sources. Whole grains and legumes like beans, chickpeas, lentils, and beans are all great options. Zinco Boost UK is generally not found in fresh fruits or vegetables. Avocados, guavas, mushrooms, spinach, and broccoli are all excellent sources of zinc.
The majority of Indians eat a cereal-based diet. Zinc deficiency is common in this population. Sometimes, vegetarians require up to 50% of the RDA for zinc than non-vegetarians. A balanced diet that includes zinc-rich foods like whole grains and legumes is the best way to be a vegetarian.
Zinc is key to increasing immunity against COVID-19. This can be achieved through a balanced diet and dietary supplementation. It would be prudent to state that, even though many vaccines are available in India, one should use them all. However, it is still unknown if vaccine-induced immunity will last long or short-term. If immunity is not long-lasting, one will need to take regular booster doses. However, stronger immunity is essential to fight infection. Prevention is better than cure.

