Zinc
Zinc stimulates the activity of over 100 enzymes for important functions in the
body which includes production of insulin and making of sperm and plays a key
role in the immune system and DNA synthesis. Zinc helps wounds heal and
helps the patient maintain a sense of taste and smell. A dose of zinc larger than
150 mg can cause copper deficiency, decrease high-density lipoprotein (HDL)
cholesterol and weaken the patient’s immune response. Zinc also inhibits tetra-
cycline (antibiotic) absorption and therefore should not be taken with antibi-
otics. The patient should wait two hours after taking any antibiotic before
taking zinc.Chromium
Chromium is acquired from meats, whole-grain cereals, and brewer’s yeast and
plays a role in controlling non-insulin-dependent diabetes by normalizing blood
glucose thereby increasing the effects of the body’s insulin on cells. Chromium
50 to 200 μ g/d is considered within the normal range for children older than
6 years old and adults.Selenium
Selenium is a trace mineral that is a cofactor for antioxidant enzymes that pro-
tect protein and nucleic acids from damage caused by oxidation. Selenium is
found in meats (especially liver), seafood, eggs, and dairy products. With a dose(^152) CHAPTER 9 Vitamins and Minerals
Dose 12–19 mg/day
Maintenance 12–19 mg/day
Pregnancy category A (C if taken in doses > RDA)
Deficiency conditions Growth retardation, diarrhea, vomiting, delay in
puberty, weakness, dry skin, delay in wound healing
Side effects No known
Adverse reactions Anemia, increased LDL cholesterol, muscle pain,
fever, nausea, vomiting
Contraindications Do not take with tetracycline.
Zinc