Tag

Zinc

All articles tagged with #zinc

Scorpion weapons reshaped by metals: zinc at tips, iron and manganese along the rest
science1 month ago

Scorpion weapons reshaped by metals: zinc at tips, iron and manganese along the rest

Scientists mapped metal use in 18 scorpion species and found zinc concentrates at sting tips while manganese dominates down the stinger, with zinc and iron lining the inner cutting edge of pincers to boost durability; patterns vary by species according to hunting style, suggesting metal reinforcement evolves with weapon use. The study, using micro X-ray fluorescence microscopy, was published in the Journal of the Royal Society Interface (2026).

Experts warn against common supplement pairings that can block absorption
health1 month ago

Experts warn against common supplement pairings that can block absorption

A TODAY health explainer warns that popular supplements can interfere with each other at high doses, reducing absorption or causing unintended effects. Notable combinations to avoid include calcium with iron, calcium with magnesium, calcium with zinc, zinc with copper, zinc with iron, and vitamin C with vitamin B12 or high-dose vitamin E with vitamin K. Experts advise taking interacting nutrients several hours apart, consulting a doctor, verifying supplement quality, using third-party certifications, and prioritizing a food-first approach rather than megadosing to replace a healthy diet.

Scorpions’ Claws and Stingers Harbor Metals, Study Finds
science1 month ago

Scorpions’ Claws and Stingers Harbor Metals, Study Finds

A Smithsonian-led study analyzing 18 scorpion species finds metals, especially zinc and manganese, are embedded in their pincers and stingers and vary by species in a way that reflects an evolutionary trade-off between durability and leverage; the research, using electron microscopy and X-ray fluorescence, suggests metal enrichment is widespread among scorpions and lays groundwork for broader comparisons and future questions about diet and gender differences, with the findings published in the Journal of the Royal Society Interface.

Four surprising foods that could help you sleep better
health1 month ago

Four surprising foods that could help you sleep better

Medical professionals highlight four less obvious sleep aids: kiwis (contain serotonin and support the gut-brain axis), pumpkin seeds (rich in magnesium and zinc to calm nerves and balance hormones), chickpeas or lentils (stabilize blood sugar and support serotonin/progesterone), and barley (high in fiber that feeds gut bacteria and promotes relaxation via short-chain fatty acids). They also note omega-3–rich fish can reduce brain inflammation and chamomile tea may help via the GABA system. Collectively these options may support better sleep alongside good sleep habits.

8 Subtle Signs You're Zinc-Deficient, and What They Mean
health1 month ago

8 Subtle Signs You're Zinc-Deficient, and What They Mean

Zinc is essential for immune function, wound healing, and development; deficiency is uncommon in the U.S. but higher-risk groups include vegetarians/vegans and people with eating disorders, substance use, or GI conditions. The article lists eight signs: slow-healing wounds, hair loss, acne, higher risk of chronic disease, vision changes (age-related macular degeneration), loss of taste or smell, hearing issues, and stunted growth in children. If you notice several signs, consult a clinician, since zinc supplementation can help some symptoms but excessive zinc has downsides.

Sleep Experts Compare Magnesium and Zinc for Better Rest
health5 months ago

Sleep Experts Compare Magnesium and Zinc for Better Rest

Magnesium and zinc are minerals that can support sleep, with magnesium helping to relax the nervous system and zinc playing a supporting role in hormone production related to sleep. Magnesium may be more effective for those struggling to fall asleep, while zinc supports overall sleep health. Both have potential side effects and should be used cautiously, ideally under medical guidance. Lifestyle changes are also recommended to improve sleep quality.

Metformin's Hidden Impact on Body Metals Uncovered
health9 months ago

Metformin's Hidden Impact on Body Metals Uncovered

Researchers at Kobe University have discovered that metformin, a common diabetes medication, alters blood levels of copper, iron, and zinc, which may explain its broad protective effects beyond blood sugar control. The study found that metformin lowers copper and iron while increasing zinc levels in patients, potentially contributing to improved glucose tolerance and reduced complications. This insight could lead to the development of more targeted diabetes treatments.

New Study Finds Nutrient Can Reduce Stroke Risk by 36%
health1 year ago

New Study Finds Nutrient Can Reduce Stroke Risk by 36%

A study suggests that consuming about 6 to 9 mg of zinc daily may lower stroke risk by 36%, with no additional benefit from higher intake. Zinc-rich foods like seafood, meat, dairy, nuts, and seeds are recommended, but excessive intake beyond 40 mg/day can be harmful. The findings highlight the importance of moderation and balanced diet in stroke prevention, though more research is needed to establish causality.

Top Cold Remedies: Natural, Medicinal, and Dietary Tips
health1 year ago

Top Cold Remedies: Natural, Medicinal, and Dietary Tips

The article explores the effectiveness of various natural remedies for the common cold, emphasizing the role of a strong immune system. While a balanced diet may negate the need for supplements, multivitamins containing essential nutrients can reduce cold symptoms. Vitamin C is shown to decrease symptom severity, and zinc lozenges can shorten cold duration. Chicken soup, despite being a traditional remedy, is supported by research for its ability to increase mucous flow and help eliminate the virus.

Avoid These Ineffective Cold and Flu Meds This Winter
health1 year ago

Avoid These Ineffective Cold and Flu Meds This Winter

Pharmacist Dr. Grant Harting advises against using certain over-the-counter cold and flu medications, such as Theraflu, Vicks NyQuil, Mucinex, Delsym, and Boiron Oscillococcinum, citing their ineffectiveness. He highlights that many of these products contain phenylephrine, which the FDA has proposed removing from shelves due to its ineffectiveness. Instead, Dr. Harting suggests considering zinc supplements, though he notes that their efficacy varies across studies.

"Top 10 Zinc-Rich Foods for Women's Health"
health-and-nutrition2 years ago

"Top 10 Zinc-Rich Foods for Women's Health"

Incorporating zinc-rich foods into a woman's diet is important for meeting daily nutritional needs, as zinc plays a crucial role in immune support, metabolism, hormone regulation, and cell growth. Foods such as nuts, pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, dairy products, red meat, whole grains, eggs, lentils, sunflower seeds, and millets are excellent sources of zinc and can be easily incorporated into meals and snacks to ensure adequate intake of this essential mineral.