Nutritional supplements are ubiquitous and highly recommended for many individuals. Some are more important then others and all can become toxic if over used. One of the most important elements is Zinc.

Zinc is an essential cofactor that is required in more then 300 enzymatic reactions. It is important in cellular ATP production, as well as brain and retinal growth and function. While Zinc binds to DNA aiding in gene expression, it also plays a role in cell death.

Good sources of Zinc are meats, eggs, many seafood, some peas and wheat germ. The recommended dosage (RDA) is 11 mg per day, but more may be recommended for ocular conditions such as Macular Degeneration. Larger dosages can interfere with copper bioavailability.

Unlike most nutrients, the average diet does not provide the RDA for zinc, especially with vegetarians. Zinc deficiencies are common in alcoholics, chronic kidney disease sickle cell anemia and all malabsorption patients. It is related to decreased vision, poor wound healing and an increased susceptibility to infections. In addition, poor night vision has been linked to low levels of zinc.

More then 50 mg of zinc per day are reserved for macular degeneration patients and must be closely followed by an eye doctor. Levels exceeding 300 mg will cause a decrease in the immune system, blood formation and copper deficiency anemia.

All nutritional supplements must be monitored and interactions between then regulated. The thought that if some is good, more is better does not work with anything ingested.