A 2010 clinical trial looked at indicators of oxidative stress and inflammation in elders which found reductions among the subjects who supplemented with zinc. These two factors – oxidative stress caused by free radicals and inflammation – are considered risk factors for coronary artery disease. Zinc deficiencies have been noted for this condition as well as for rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and various cancers.
Editor’s note: There are a range of essential nutrients that reduce oxidative stress in the body and can help reduce inflammation including glutathione, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and alpha lipoic acid for example. Green leafy vegetables contain a great range of antioxidants that have excellent anti-inflammatory properties. as well.
When supplementing with zinc, copper should also be taken. The proper ratio of zinc:copper is 15:1.
Published: June, 2010, American Journal of Clinical Nutrition