Zinc is an important nutrient that can help the immune system and may reduce the risk of certain illnesses. Some evidence suggests that zinc may be beneficial for the management of type 2 diabetes. Other research notes a potential link between zinc deficiency and diabetes. However, more research is necessary.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, affecting more than
Zinc is a nutrient that occurs naturally in many foods, such as beans, meat, and fish. People can also take it as a dietary supplement. It helps support a number of functions in the body, most notably helping the immune system, as it possesses antioxidant properties. While zinc deficiencies are rare in the United States, they may occur if a person’s diet lacks adequate nutrition.
Due to the possible health benefits of zinc, some evidence notes it might have a protective effect against diabetes and may improve the prognosis for those living with this condition.
In this article, we discuss the potential connection between diabetes and zinc, including whether zinc can help manage type 2 diabetes.
More research is necessary to understand the association between zinc and type 2 diabetes. Some evidence notes that there may be a link between zinc deficiencies and the development of diabetes. Research also suggests zinc supplementation helps reduce risk factors for developing diabetes and assists with managing the condition.
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As such, this may suggest that zinc supplementation may help with the management of diabetes as an adjunct therapy. A 2022 study indicates that zinc may help due to its antioxidant properties. Relatedly, a
Another 2019 meta-analysis also suggests that a moderately high dietary zinc intake could reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by
Therefore, zinc could benefit the management of diabetes. However, lower zinc levels may coincide with nonnutritious eating habits that may contribute to the development of the condition. As such, more research is necessary to fully understand the relationship between diabetes and zinc.
While zinc is present in many foods, some research estimates that roughly
- red meat
- poultry
- seafood, such as oysters, crab, and lobster
- fortified breakfast cereals
- beans
- nuts
- whole grains
- dairy products
Zinc is also available in supplements that people can have in addition to dietary sources to ensure a sufficient intake of the nutrient. However, before taking supplements, it may be advisable to seek a doctor’s advice.
It is important for individuals to get an accurate impression of their dietary zinc needs. Although zinc is a very important dietary element, consuming too much can result in zinc toxicity, which can cause problems. A
- gastric irritation
- vomiting
- nausea
- gastric hemorrhage
Additionally, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) note that a regular excessive intake of
- low copper levels
- changes in iron function
- reduced immune function
- reduced levels of “good,” high-density lipoprotein cholesterol
- urogenital problems
In addition to its potential beneficial effects on diabetes, evidence notes that zinc may possess many other health benefits.
Evidence notes that the body uses zinc for many different purposes,
In some cases, it is
Similarly, a
In some cases, a person may also require
Type 2 diabetes is a common condition that can significantly affect an individual’s health. Some research suggests that adequate zinc levels could help prevent the development of diabetes and make the condition easier to manage. However, more research is necessary to fully understand the relationship between zinc and diabetes.
While further research is still necessary, evidence notes that incorporating healthy lifestyle changes, which can include a nutritious diet with sufficient zinc, may help prevent or delay type 2 diabetes and assist in managing blood sugars.