Zinc – the motor for the enzymes

Why is zinc so important?

In terms of quantity, zinc is a minor mineral with a content of only two grams in the body. However, these two grams are essential for an intact metabolism as zinc is responsible for numerous functions in our body.

Its main function is the activation of enzymes. For more than 70% of all enzymes zinc is required as the “motor”; they are only activated with the help of zinc. Enzymes are like small catalysts: they facilitate any kind of reaction in the body.

The positive effect of zinc on the immune system can be seen from the fact that zinc influences wound healing. Furthermore, it is indispensable as a stabilizer for the cell walls, for storing insulin and for vitalizing skin and hair.

Good sources of zinc

A pregnant woman’s body requires 10 mg of zinc per day (breastfeeding women 12 mg). Zinc is contained in beef and liver, but also in peas, oat and wheat.

Signs of deficiency

If the body receives too little zinc, the wounds heal more slowly and the baby may not grow enough. The first warning signs of a zinc deficiency may be changes in the mother-to-be's taste and smell.