Zinc, selenium and vitamin D. How to protect yourself from COVID-19?

Agree, in the warm season you want to use as little cosmetics as possible. To enjoy the absence of makeup and not worry about skin problems, you need proper care and nutrition, as well as a balance of all micro- and macroelements in the body. Especially zinc. Let's explain why.

The best vitamins with zinc.

November 23, 2022
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Content

• Why is zinc needed in the body?
• Symptoms of zinc deficiency
• How to choose a zinc supplement
• 10 foods rich in zinc
• Top 10 best zinc preparations
• Solgar Zinc Picolinate
• Doppelhertz Active vitamin C + zinc
• Zincite
• Mirra-Zinc
• Zinc BioVea
• Evalar Zinc + vitamin C
• Country Life Calcium, Magnesium and Zinc
• Zincteral
• Nature's Bounty Calcium-Magnesium-Zinc
• Arnebia Zinc Depot

Zinc is an important trace element for the proper functioning of the body. Zinc is involved in the synthesis of enzymes and hormones, supports both the female and male reproductive systems, is an essential component of hair and nails, and strengthens the immune system.

Bismuth oxychloride in mineral cosmetics

The most controversial ingredient and I will devote a separate investigation to it, the third part.
I will definitely troll the smart guys and numerous experts! Yours, skeptic Sergei

Scientific literature was used in preparing the article. The translation of the name and brief conclusions are indicated in brackets: 1. Risk assessment of zinc oxide, a cosmetic ingredient used as a UV filter of sunscreens. J Toxicol Environ Health B Crit Rev. 2017;20(3) (Risk assessment of the use of zinc oxide in sunscreens. Conclusion: Safe) 2. The safety of nanoparticles in sunscreens: An update for general practice. Aust Fam Physician. 2016 Jun;45(6) (Safety of using nanoparticles in sunscreens) 3. Long-term exposure to commercially available sunscreens containing nanoparticles of TiO2 and ZnO revealed no biological impact in a hairless mouse model. Part Fiber Toxicol. 2016 Aug 17. (Long-term exposure to commercially available sunscreens containing TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticles did not reveal any biological effects in a model without hair. Conclusion: There is no reason to avoid the use of sunscreens containing titanium dioxide and zinc oxide nanoparticles) 4. Safety evaluation of sunscreen formulations containing titanium dioxide and zinc oxide nanoparticles in UVB sunburned skin: an in vitro and in vivo study. Toxicol Sci. 2011 Sep;. (Evaluation of the safety of sunscreen formulations containing titanium dioxide and zinc oxide nanoparticles during ultraviolet irradiation of the skin: study) 5. Effect of flexing and massage on in vivo human skin penetration and toxicity of zinc oxide nanoparticles. Nanomedicine (Lond). 2016 May;11 Effect of flexion and massage on the penetration of zinc oxide nanoparticles into human skin

Previous chapters: 1. The bitter truth about mineral cosmetics. Part 1 2. Titanium dioxide in mineral cosmetics. Part 2: Conducting experiments

Why is zinc needed in the body?

Zinc has many functions in the body:

1. Improves the functioning of the immune system.
2. Strengthens the nervous system.
3. Stimulates sexual function, improves sperm quality in men.
4. Improves the functioning of the respiratory system.
5. Improves pancreatic function, stimulates insulin production.
6. Necessary for proper fetal development during pregnancy.
7. Normalizes metabolism.
8. Helps to better absorb B vitamins, improving the condition of skin, hair and nails.

Why take zinc supplement
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What are the benefits of zinc for the skin and how it eliminates acne inflammation

In recent years, zinc supplements have been frequently touted for the treatment of acne. In this article we will try to analyze all the pros and cons of such treatment, and most importantly, how is zinc useful for the skin?

Zinc is an excellent mineral for treating acne, especially if your body is deficient in it. It mainly acts on the immune system, reducing the manifestation of chronic inflammation.

What results can be expected from zinc treatment? It all depends on the severity of the disease: if the occurrence of acne is associated with immunity, then you will see the real benefits of zinc.

However, almost every acne patient suffers from chronic inflammation to some degree, so when treating acne with zinc, everyone will see at least the slightest improvement in their skin.

Researchers have seen an average of 50% reduction in acne with zinc treatment, and some have seen skin improvement of over 65%.

If you are lucky, then zinc may well end the treatment of acne.

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Symptoms of zinc deficiency

You can notice a zinc deficiency by the fact that the skin and mucous membranes become dry and cracks appear on them. Hair loses its shine and falls out, nails peel and break. Later, problems begin with the digestive tract (disorders arise, for example).

Among the main symptoms of zinc deficiency are:

• insomnia and problems falling asleep;
• poor appetite;
• hair loss and brittle nails;
• irritability;
• drop in insulin levels;
• wounds heal poorly;
• poor skin condition;

If the zinc deficiency is small, this problem does not manifest itself in the early stages. If there is a slight lack of a microelement or if it is normal, and a person takes medications with zinc in large dosages for a long time, intoxication of the body is possible. Therefore, it is very important to know for sure whether there is a deficiency, and to take a course of vitamins only after consulting a doctor.

Signs of zinc deficiency

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What types of creams with zinc oxide are there?

Baby creams with zinc oxide

It is worth noting that this can be either a diaper cream (such as Disetin) or a sunscreen.

For example, DermaQuest Mineral Cream SPF 30 with Zinc provides both complete protection and an anti-inflammatory effect, which is important for allergies and dermatitis in children. Another plus is a single application and the mother’s peace of mind throughout the day for the baby’s skin.

Soothing creams with zinc oxide

Pronounced anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make zinc oxide a popular component of sedatives.

For example, Moisturizing Cream for Delicate Skin, DermaQuest based on valuable Argan, Jojoba, Rosehip oils, antioxidants and moisturizing complexes - instantly softens, moisturizes and restores the barriers of sensitive skin. Relieves irritation and redness. Contains zinc oxide equivalent to SPF 8 – 10.

Sunscreens with zinc oxide

The most popular application is in sunscreens with micronized zinc oxide . Performs the function of a mineral screen.

Creams for oily skin

In these formulas, zinc reduces the activity of 5 alpha reductase, an enzyme that causes increased sebum production and breakouts. Zinc oxide mineral particles also mattify the skin.

How to choose a zinc supplement

Vitamins with zinc must be chosen like any other drug: focus on certain criteria. These include possible allergic reactions, the age of the patient (the form of release depends on this), and how obvious the signs of zinc deficiency are, it is important to study contraindications and side effects. So, in more detail:

1. Allergic reactions.
   Medicines and vitamin complexes often contain dyes, preservatives and flavors. Intolerance can be to both the main active ingredient and auxiliary components. If you are prone to allergies, be sure to consult your doctor before taking zinc.
2. Drug interactions.
   It happens that taking several specific medications is undesirable. Zinc, for example, is better not to combine with manganese, calcium, magnesium, tin, iron, copper and folic acid. Doctors recommend taking zinc only 2 hours after foods rich in these substances. Taking zinc reduces the absorption of certain antibiotics.
3. Age.
   When choosing a form of release of a zinc preparation, it is necessary to take into account the age of the patient. For children, it is better to buy zinc in the form of water-soluble effervescent tablets.
4. Level of zinc deficiency.
   If a person has a mild form of zinc deficiency (this does not affect his performance), you can simply adjust your diet and not buy a zinc supplement.

How to increase zinc levels?

The first step in this direction is obvious - eat more foods rich in zinc.

Again, grain products are an almost useless source of zinc, despite the fact that they contain quite a lot of it. Instead, you need to eat more meat, vegetables and seafood.

The best source of zinc in the world is considered to be the oyster, which contains huge doses of about 90 mg per 100 grams.

This is approximately 600% of the recommended daily intake, so you can eat oysters at least once a week. Oysters are also full of other beneficial nutrients such as magnesium and selenium.

Other good sources of zinc include unprocessed meats such as beef, pork and chicken. Some nuts contain high amounts of zinc, but their bioavailability is low.

If you can't find a dietary combination that you like, simply take a zinc supplement at 15 to 30 mg per day.

15 mg is the daily DV, but zinc can be safely taken up to 60 mg daily without obvious toxicity.

It is best to take a standard dose of 30 mg of zinc every day and combine it with a good diet. This will speed up the healing of inflammation on the face.

Additionally, zinc increases the effectiveness of vitamin A (great news for those who treat acne with retinoids).

Please note that zinc is certainly beneficial for the skin, but it is not a panacea for treating acne, so always consult a dermatologist, because zinc toxicity is no joke. The most common side effect of taking high doses of zinc is copper deficiency.

Top 10 best zinc preparations

If you are faced with the problem of zinc deficiency in the body, and eating foods rich in this microelement does not help, it is better to start taking vitamins. Talk to your doctor to understand what dosage you need and how long you will need to take the zinc supplement. We have compiled a list of the most effective complexes that are well absorbed and have many positive reviews from doctors and patients.

Read also Vitamins for hair loss: 10 of the best Review of the best vitamins for hair.

Solgar Zinc Picolinate

The American zinc preparation has a high concentration of the trace element. The product does not contain soy, GMOs, yeast, dyes, dairy products, preservatives, wheat or gluten. "Solgar Zinc Picolinate" is approved for diabetics, because it contains no sugar or sweeteners. The drug is highly bioavailable – it is absorbed by the body by 61%. Solgar Zinc Picolinate has an organic chelate form, which eliminates allergic reactions and side effects from the gastrointestinal tract. The product can be taken from the age of 18, one tablet per day with meals. "Solgar Zinc Picolinate" is indicated for both women and men. There are 100 tablets in a dark glass bottle. Contraindications include individual intolerance to the drug, pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Solgar Zinc Picolinate

SOLGAR, USA

A natural food supplement with a high concentration of zinc allows you to increase the content of one of the vital microelements in the human body.
Regular use of the drug helps restore the immune system and increases resistance to diseases and infections. The components of the dietary supplement help enhance brain activity and improve memory. The development and functioning of the genital organs is normalized, and the aging process of the body is slowed down. from 427

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Zinc 25 mg in the form of effervescent tablets from Evalar

Did you know that the effervescent form, when dissolved in water, allows the release of carbon dioxide? It is this that enhances the absorption activity of the gastrointestinal tract, increasing the bioavailability of the mineral. Taking these features into account, the Evalar company has created a new product - Zinc in effervescent form, for maximum bioavailability. One tablet contains 25 mg of zinc, that is, 167% of the daily value. Dietary supplements with such a concentration of the active substance are especially useful to take during the cold season, as well as at the first signs of malaise.

Doppelhertz Active vitamin C + zinc

This German zinc preparation comes in the form of effervescent tablets that need to be dissolved in water. “Doppelhertz Active vitamin C and zinc” is primarily indicated for strengthening the immune system. You can take the drug from the age of 14. The active ingredients are zinc gluconate and ascorbic acid. The tablets are in a tube, there are 15 of them. You can buy Doppelhertz Active vitamin C and zinc in citrus or berry flavors. When the tablet dissolves, you get a tasty drink that contains a sweetener. Contraindications include: intolerance to the drug components, pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Doppelhertz Active vitamin C + zinc

Queisser Pharma, Germany

Can be used in dietary rations, on the recommendation of a doctor, as an additional source of vitamin C and zinc to create optimal dietary conditions for the functioning of the human body.
It has antioxidant properties, protect cell membranes from the damaging effects of peroxidation; stimulates the immune system, increases the body's defenses; has anti-inflammatory properties. from 41

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Zincite

German zinc preparation with a high content of trace elements. Effervescent tablets must be dissolved in water. Reviews write that “Zinkit” has a mango aroma, but there is a slightly medicinal taste. Take 1 tablet of the drug per day immediately after meals. This supplement improves the condition of the skin, hair and nails, stimulating the production of keratin and collagen, and stabilizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands. Reviews say that Zincit helps those who have been treating acne for a long time. In just a month, the skin condition noticeably improves.

Zincite

VERWAG Pharma, Germany

The drug Zinkit is a dietary supplement to the diet, an additional source of zinc for the purpose of correcting the diet.
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Mirra-Zinc

The drug in capsule form contains a water-soluble zinc salt and lactic acid. An excellent remedy for those who suffer from zinc deficiency. "Mirra-Zinc" is a lactate enriched with polysaccharides from kelp (seaweed). The package contains white-green capsules (50 pieces). You need to take 2 tablets per day. "Mirra-Zinc" is prescribed to improve metabolism and regulate the functioning of enzyme systems. The drug is well compatible with other dietary supplements. Contraindications include intolerance to the components of the product, pregnancy and breastfeeding. This zinc preparation is indicated exclusively for adults.

Mirra-Zinc

Ensures the activity of many enzyme systems of the body and normalizes metabolism.
Helps ensure the full functioning of the male gonads. Recommended for conditions associated with increased consumption of zinc by the body (growth period, pregnancy, recovery period after injuries and infections). Absolutely necessary for maintaining the normal condition of skin, hair and nails. The dietary supplement MIRRA-ZINC is taken with meals, in courses, both separately and in combination with other dietary supplements. from 503

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Read also: 10 most effective acne remedies 10 creams and gels to combat acne and acne.

Zinc BioVea

Typically, zinc deficiency develops due to pregnancy, gastrointestinal diseases, taking birth control pills, stress, and problems with the thyroid gland. Zinc BioVea is often chosen by those who play sports and follow diets. The zinc preparation perfectly restores muscle function, improves blood circulation, strengthens the immune system, protecting against infections, inflammation and fungi. Zinc BioVea improves the condition of hair, skin and nails in a short time.

Zinc BioVea

Zinc 15 mg from BIOVEA will provide the body's zinc needs.
The importance of this mineral for the health of the body can be judged by the degree of involvement of zinc in a number of vital processes: in the effective functioning of the immune system, participation in the growth and division of cells, including DNA cells, in maintaining optimal muscle function, rapid healing of wounds, antioxidant protection , in maintaining normal hormonal levels and many other important processes. For men, zinc is important as a microelement that supports men's health. With sufficient amounts in the body, the risk of developing prostate cancer is reduced. from 906

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Evalar Zinc + vitamin C

An excellent zinc preparation for the prevention of ARVI. In addition to strengthening the immune system, Evalar Zinc + Vitamin C has a positive effect on the nervous and reproductive systems, vision, hair, skin and nails. To compensate for the lack of zinc, a course of the drug is needed. The product does not contain gluten. The active substance is presented in the form of lactate enriched with ascorbic acid. The tablets are easy to swallow; there are 50 tablets in a package (enough for one course). In order for zinc to be better absorbed, Evalar Zinc + Vitamin C should be taken with meals, closer to bedtime. The drug is approved from the age of 14, but is contraindicated for pregnant and lactating women.

Evalar Zinc + vitamin C

Evalar, Russia

Used as a biologically active food supplement - an additional source of vitamin C and zinc.
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Country Life Calcium, Magnesium and Zinc

This American combination drug has a balanced composition: calcium, magnesium and zinc. Country Life Calcium, Magnesium and Zinc contains no colors, flavors, preservatives, gluten, yeast, salt or sugar. Zinc is here in the form of gluconate; you need to take 3 tablets of the drug per day. Magnesium improves the functioning of the nervous system, calcium is necessary for bones and teeth. In addition, the drug contains L-glutamic acid, which stimulates the endocrine system and helps the body resist stress and toxins. L-glutamic acid also helps minerals to be absorbed faster. You can buy Country Life Calcium, Magnesium and Zinc in packs of 100, 180 or 250 tablets. You need to take this zinc supplement for two to three months.

Country Life Calcium, Magnesium and Zinc

Calcium-Magnesium-Zinc + vitamin D3 is a vitamin-mineral complex produced by TM Country Life (USA), which is an additional source of three important microelements enriched with vitamin D. The composition of the drug is optimally selected for better absorption of all components and a more effective effect on the body.
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Is zinc effective for acne?

You're probably wondering if zinc is scientifically proven to be effective for acne? A couple of studies have already been conducted, and they show really positive results.

1) In a Turkish study, researchers recruited 87 people, 47 of whom had acne and the rest had clear skin. They divided them into separate groups based on their skin condition.

Scientists found that in a group of acne patients, 54.1% of people were deficient in zinc, compared with just 10% of people with clear skin. They also noticed that the average zinc levels in the blood of acne patients were much lower than average.

2) The second study involved 54 patients who took either zinc supplements or a placebo. After 6 weeks of treatment, the amount of acne in patients taking zinc decreased by 33%.

3) This large study recruited 332 people with acne. They were given 30 mg of zinc gluconate, which is twice the recommended daily intake.

After three months, all patients had a 49.8% reduction in the total number of acne lesions! It was also noted that in 31.2% of participants the reduction in acne was two-thirds or more.

Zinc gluconate is not the most effective form of zinc supplementation. There are other forms: zinc oxide, acetate, sulfate, glycate, etc. Zinc picolinate is considered the most effective. Picolinic acid promotes the fastest absorption of zinc in the intestines.

Zincteral

This zinc preparation is prescribed for the prevention and replenishment of microelement deficiency in the body. Zincteral is also indicated in the complex treatment of Wilson's disease, diabetes, alcoholism, skin diseases and parasite infections. Zinc is necessary for the proper metabolism of proteins and carbohydrates and is a component of many enzymes. You need to take 1 tablet of this zinc supplement per day. You can buy Zincteral in blisters (25 tablets in one) or in a jar (150 tablets).

Zincteral

TEVA, Ukraine

Zincteral is a zinc preparation that helps replenish the deficiency of this microelement in the body.
Zincteral is used to treat patients with zinc deficiency, which is caused by impaired zinc absorption, poor nutrition, and excessive loss of zinc by the body. from 283

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Zinc chelate from the ANTI-AGE line from Evalar

The peculiarity of this form is the enclosure of the mineral inside the so-called “amino acid claw”. The absorption process itself occurs in the small intestine, where, thanks to chelation, this substance has maximum bioavailability and maintains an optimal level of the microelement in the body. Therefore, the chelated form is the most recommended in most cases.

Nature's Bounty Calcium-Magnesium-Zinc

Zinc preparation made in the USA. The supplement is hypoallergenic, the package contains 100 capsule-shaped tablets. Zinc is presented here in the form of gluconate, the drug is also enriched with vitamin D3, magnesium and calcium. The product helps wounds heal faster, improves overall health, helps stop hair loss, strengthens nails and improves skin condition. Nature's Bounty Calcium-Magnesium-Zinc contains no GMOs, sweeteners, flavors or dyes.

Nature's Bounty Calcium-Magnesium-Zinc

Nature's Bounty, USA

Calcium is necessary to strengthen bone tissue and teeth.
Magnesium helps absorb calcium and prevents it from being “washed out” from bone tissue. At the same time, magnesium is necessary in the processes of nerve impulses and muscle contraction, so its intake is very important during stress and physical activity. Zinc, in turn, promotes healthy bone formation, supports immunity and healthy hair. “Calcium-magnesium-zinc” contains calcium and magnesium in an optimal physiological ratio, which helps normalize the mineral balance in the body. Vitamin D3 helps with calcium absorption and supports a healthy immune system. from 700

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Arnebia Zinc Depot

Zinc preparation in tablet form. The supplement is indicated for those who want to supplement their diet with important microelements to strengthen the immune system during viral infections. In addition to zinc, Arnebia Zinc Depot contains vitamin C, which protects cells from stress and strengthens blood vessels. The zinc in this product is an excellent antioxidant that maintains optimal levels of cholesterol and vitamin A, and also helps heal wounds, strengthens hair and nails, and improves skin condition.

Arnebia Zinc Depot

Nutrilo Gmbh, Germany

Arnebia Zinc Depot can be recommended as a biologically active food supplement - an additional source of zinc and vitamin C.
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Types of Zinc Supplements

There are a huge number of different zinc supplements available commercially for acne patients. Zinc comes in a variety of forms, and some are much more bioavailable than others.

It is very important to choose the right option because you may be wasting your money on a supplement that will not help you.

Zinc oxide is the most common type of zinc supplement. Used in most foods. It has very poor bioavailability, so don't waste your money on it.

Zinc gluconate is not the best zinc supplement, nor the most bioavailable, but it works to some extent. The study above used zinc gluconate, so it can be used to treat the skin.

Zinc sulfate - highly absorbed according to some studies. Not the best form of zinc, but not the worst.

Zinc glycinate is another good form and is absorbed better than zinc sulfate. Compared to zinc sulfate, glycinate is absorbed 16% more efficiently.

Zinc Orotate – Generally considered one of the best zinc supplements, but this has not yet been proven. This form competes with zinc picolinate.

Zinc Picolinate – Recognized as the king of all zinc supplements. Today, picolinate is the most bioavailable form. This study compared picolinate with zinc citrate and zinc gluconate and found that picolinate was best absorbed by the body.

Zinc citrate is quite well absorbed, but inferior to picolinate.

Zinc-1-methionine is another highly bioavailable form of zinc and is good for acne, so it is also considered effective.

If you see “zinc chelate” on the label, then know that it is not a specific type of zinc, but rather a specific class. Chelated zinc is a form that binds to an organic molecule to increase absorption in the body.

Zinc citrate, zinc picolinate, and zinc-1-methionine are all chelated supplements. The more precise form should be listed somewhere lower on the label.