Essential Tremor and Zinc

August 10, 2018

Zinc is a chemical element on the periodic table. It is a trace element that is necessary for a person to have a healthy immune system. A lack of zinc can make a person more susceptible to many types of diseases and illnesses. Zinc is responsible for lots of functions in our bodies, and helps the activity of over 100 different enzymes. Zinc does not need to be consumed in large amounts though, and only a small intake of zinc is necessary for all the benefits to be reaped. Zinc is naturally found in many different foods, but is also available as a dietary supplement if needed. 

As mentioned before, Zinc is related to many different bodily functions. Zinc is important for a healthy immune system, DNA synthesizing, healthy growth during childhood, and healing wounds. In relation to learning and memory, zinc plays a very important role in how neurons communicate with one another, which can affect how memories are formed and how we learn. Zinc may also play a role in reducing the risk of inflammatory diseases. 

The best sources of Zinc are beans, animal meats, nuts, fish, whole grains, and dairy products. Zinc is also added to some breakfast cereals and other fortified foods. If you are a vegetarian, you may require up to 50 percent more than the recommended intake of Zinc because of low bioavailability of zinc from plant-based foods. Some foods with the highest Zinc content are: 

  • Raw oysters
  • Beef
  • Baked beans
  • Crab
  • Ground beef
  • Lobster
  • Pork loin
  • Yogurt
  • Pecans
  • Peanuts

Zinc supplements are available in capsules and tablets, but most people do not need a Zinc supplement because of their intake of foods that are naturally rich in the element. It has been proven that if you isolate certain nutrients in supplement form, it is not the same as consuming the nutrient from whole foods. This means that if you can consume zinc rich foods, it is more effective than consuming just the supplement. 

Because of it’s immune support and role it plays with the nervous system, Zinc is an important element to consume when looking to control symptoms of essential tremor. Essential tremor, though causes are mostly unknown, seems to be caused by lack of control in communication between the neurons of the nervous system and brain. By making sure that you are eating a balanced diet and Zinc rich foods, you are making sure that you are avoiding any effects that a lack of Zinc may cause in your condition. By not putting your body through undue sickness and stress because of a low immune system, you are also helping manage symptoms of essential tremor. 

It is very important for essential tremor sufferers to consume enough Zinc through their diet. Though supplements may benefit some, they are not an ideal fix, and foods rich in Zinc should be consumed for optimum health and results. Zinc is an element that affects 100’s of functions within the body, so lack of Zinc is something that should be corrected immediately and taken seriously. 


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