Zinc & Angina Pain
If arteries are blocked and the heart does not get adequate blood, chest pain and severe discomfort, known as angina, may occur. About 7 million Americans report that they suffer from angina, which is attributed to underlying coronary artery disease.
-
Zinc
-
One of the most important trace minerals the body needs is zinc. It is responsible for about 300 enzyme reactions and is essential for growth, fertility, vision, immunity and taste sensitivity. It was recently discovered that zinc plays a crucial role in heart disease, as well.
Zinc and Coronary Artery Disease
-
A study published in the "Journal of the American College of Nutrition" of 3,575 subjects concluded that a lower intake of zinc increases the risk of coronary artery disease, diabetes, hypertension and higher triglycerides.
-
Zinc and Angina
-
Since angina is a symptom of coronary artery disease, a shortage of zinc in the diet increases the likelihood of angina. An August 2005 study published in the journal "Medical Hypothesis" says, "High-dose zinc should be considered as basic in the therapy of the atherosclerosis process to terminate angina pectoris and restore youthful cardiac function." Consequently, a healthy intake of zinc is considered an important preventive measure against angina.
Sources of Zinc
-
Red meat and poultry are rich sources of zinc. Adult men require 15mcg of zinc daily, while adult women require 12mcg and children about 10mcg. Rich sources of zinc are red meat, poultry and dairy products. Red meat contains 3.5mcg per 100 grams, eggs 1.3mcg, poultry 1.5mcg and milk products 1.2mcg per 100 grams. Plant products contain some zinc, as well, but it is not easily absorbed by the body.
Warning
-
Although zinc is one of the most important trace elements, it is possible to take too much. Zinc intake of more than 30mcg per day can cause nausea, vomiting, drowsiness and headaches. It also inhibits the absorption of other essential nutrients such as iron and calcium, both of which are necessary for growth and proper functioning of the body.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of D. Sharon Pruitt
