RECENT ADVANCES OF ZINC IN HUMAN HEALTH: A REVIEW

Abstract

Zinc is a very essential trace element for human health. Adequate zinc level is very necessary for several body functions. Proper zinc level can reduce the child illness and may increase the physical growth of the children. Daily dietary intake of zinc is 8-11 mg/day for normal human being, excess and lower of this amount can cause illness in the human body. Approximately 2 billion people can be affected by the zinc deficiency. Zinc mostly found in all plants, animals and available in all sorts of vitamin supplements as well. Zinc can control the enzyme activity and DNA formation. Exposure to excess zinc can cause some serious illness like metal fume fever, prostate cancer, nausea, vomiting, fatigue etc. Zinc deficiency may lead to the world’s third most important cause of impaired child growth. Apart from reduced child growth, diarrhea, common cold, impaired mental development can be caused by the lack of zinc concentration. In this review we will give insights to the zinc functions biochemistry, source, metabolism, assessment methods and definitely the deficiency and toxicity effect.