Zinc - Substances Enhanced By

Introduction

This section outlines the nutrients and other substances whose production, function or absorption is enhanced in the presence of Zinc.

Amino Acids

 Zinc may enhance the function of Cysteine.

 Zinc may enhance the function of Taurine.

 Zinc may enhance the function of Tryptophan.

Carbohydrates

 Zinc is involved in the body's metabolism of Carbohydrates:

 Zinc may facilitate the transport of Glucose into cells (and may therefore help to lower elevated Blood Sugar (Glucose) levels).  ^[1]

 Zinc deficiency may cause a reduction in the endogenous synthesis of Chondroitin Sulfate.

Digestive System Chemicals

 Zinc may be required for the production of Hydrochloric Acid.

Enzymes

Zinc is involved in the function/manufacture of over 200 enzymes within the body.

 Zinc is a cofactor for 3-Beta-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase.

 Zinc inhibits the activity of the detrimental 5-Alpha Reductase enzyme that is responsible for the conversion of Testosterone to Dihydrotestosterone (DHT).  ^[2]

 Zinc is an essential component of the Acetaldehyde Dehydrogenase enzyme.

 Zinc is an essential component of the Alcohol Dehydrogenase enzyme.

 Zinc is an essential component of the Alkaline Phosphatase enzyme.  ^[3]

 Zinc is a cofactor for Betaine-Homocysteine Methyltransferase (BHMT).  ^[4]

 Zinc is an essential component of the Carbonic Anhydrase enzyme.  ^[5]

 Zinc is an essential component of the Delta-5 Desaturase enzyme.

 Zinc is an essential component of the Delta-6 Desaturase enzyme.  ^[6]

 Zinc may increase the activity of Glutathione Peroxidase.  ^[7]

 Zinc is an essential component of the Nucleic Acid Catalyzing Enzymes that are responsible for the production of endogenous Nucleic Acids:

 Zinc enhances the production/function of RNA Polymerase.  ^[8]

 Zinc is a cofactor for Pyruvate Carboxylase.