Clinicians Zinc Oral Drops 5mg | 30ml

Clinicians Zinc Oral Drops 5mg 

What is  Zinc Oral Drops?

Zinc Oral Drops is a dietary supplement that supports immune health, digestive health, skin health and male sexual health. Zinc is an important essential mineral that is vital to maintain many processes in the body including wound healing and normal sense of taste and smell. Zinc Oral Drops are easy to use and suitable for all the family with variable dosing available.

Why use Zinc Oral Drops?

Zinc is an important essential mineral that is needed by the body in small amounts and is only available from our diet. Zinc is vital for many physiological and biochemical processes that support our many systems including immune health, digestive health, skin health and male sexual health. A deficiency in zinc can lead to health issues and illnesses. Zinc is depleted in New Zealand soil, which is reflected in reduced amounts of zinc in our food sources. Zinc Oral Drops is a dietary supplement that is easy to use and suitable for all the family with variable dosing.

What are the Key Benefits of Zinc Oral Drops?

• Supports healthy skin and nails, wound healing and immune function
• Suitable for children to support digestive and immune health and promote healthy skin
• Supports male sexual health
• Supports hormone and enzyme function
• Variable dosing allows for use by all the family
• Provided in a form that is better absorbed
• Does not contain sugar or artificial sweeteners
• Does not contain added colours, flavours, preservatives, gluten, wheat or dairy

Zinc – The main ingredient in Oral Zinc Drops:

Why is zinc important?

Zinc is a trace element and essential mineral which means it is needed by the body for many physiological processes but only in small amounts. Zinc is only found in the diet and is rich in foods like seafood (especially oysters), lean red meat, chicken, wholegrain cereals, beans, lentils, seeds, and dairy. It cannot be stored in the body and therefore, a sufficient daily intake is needed to maintain a healthy body. Zinc plays an important role in maintaining a healthy immune system, central nervous system, reproductive system, digestive system and bone development. Zinc supports a healthy skin structure and is particularly important in wound healing, and supports normal functioning of the male prostate gland, particularly synthesis of testosterone^1.

Zinc deficiency:

Zinc is depleted in New Zealand soil, which is reflected in reduced amounts of zinc in our food sources. If you don’t eat enough of zinc containing foods you may not reach the recommended daily dietary intake, which is 14mg for men and 8mg for women. Both factors can result in reduced zinc intake through our diet and can lead to a zinc deficiency. Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to the effects of zinc deficiency; also if you have a condition that affect absorption of nutrients, such as Crohn’s Disease, or excess alcohol intake. A deficiency in zinc can compromise our health in many ways, particularly in children as it can affect growth and development. Other health problems include impaired immune system function, increased risk of infection resulting in chronic illness and poor wound healing. Chronic zinc deficiency can also cause diarrhoea, loss of appetite, changes in taste sensation and smell disorders, hair loss, skin problems and impotence in men^2.

How does zinc work in our body?

Zinc is found throughout the body and its role can be described as being involved in catalytic, structural and regulatory functions. It plays a vital role in many aspects of metabolism including gene expression, protein synthesis, cell division and growth, enzyme activity and hormone regulation. It is needed for maintaining cell membranes, as a cofactor in more than 10% of all proteins including enzymes and hormones, for antioxidant activity in enzymes like superoxide dismutase, for functioning of enzymes like metalloproteinases in tissue remodelling and wound healing and the metalloenzyme carbonic anhydrase essential for normal sense of taste and smell. In other words, our body needs zinc to function properly and to maintain health and wellness. Zinc is absorbed from the small intestines and transported in the blood bound to proteins. Several factors interfere with zinc absorption, including calcium and phytates (an antioxidant found in grains, legumes, nuts and seeds), while zinc absorption increases with protein intake and is more bioavailable if taken in the form of meat in the diet. Most of the zinc in the body is found in muscle and bones and then the skin contains about 5-6%, but here is no storage of zinc in the body so that any unused zinc is excreted^1.

Zinc for male sexual health and fertility:

Oxidative stress can affect sperm quality by damaging sperm and as a result reduce male fertility. Seminal fluid is rich in antioxidants like superoxide dismutase, which is dependent on zinc as a cofactor. Studies indicate that sperm quality is related to levels of zinc in semen and this may be related to the normal functioning of antioxidants to reduce oxidative stress^{3, 4.} Supplementation with micronutrients can improve sperm quality5. High concentrations of zinc are found in the prostate relative to other soft tissues of the body. Levels of zinc in the seminal plasma of infertile men was found to be lower than in fertile men and indicated that zinc deficiency due to poor zinc nutrition, may contribute to low quality sperm and infertility in men^6. Testosterone synthesis is also affected by zinc levels. In a study with healthy men, zinc deficiency was found to reduce testosterone levels and zinc supplementation increased testosterone, indicating a role for zinc in testosterone synthesis. Reduced testosterone levels affect male sexual health and can contribute to impotency and loss of libido^{4, 7.}

Zinc for skin health:

Zinc is used effectively as a topical treatment for many skin disorders including acne and eczema; also for skin infections and treating ulcers and wounds8. The skin contains about 5% of zinc found in the body. It concentrates in the upper layers of the skin (epidermis) and protects skin against damage caused by ultraviolet irradiation from then sun due to its antioxidant properties. The antioxidant activity of zinc is thought to be due to inducing the production of metallothionein, which is a protein that binds zinc and protects against free radicles that cause cell damage^9.

Zinc for and wound healing:

Wound healing is a response to injury that involves many physiological processes including haemostasis (plugging the wound to stop bleeding), infiltration of immune cells to fight infection and promote removal of damaged tissue (debridement), skin cell growth and tissue remodelling (including scar formation). Many of these processes are zinc dependant. Zinc promotes platelet activation to plug the wound, infiltration of immune cells and production of immune and inflammatory mediators that is needed for tissue debridement. Zinc also stimulates growth of keratinocytes (skin cells) into the wound during wound repair and is essential for tissue remodelling by activating matrix metalloproteinases, which are enzymes involved production of
extracellular matrix, the supporting framework of all tissues in the body that contains a range of carbohydrates and proteins, mainly collagen^10.

Zinc for immune support:

Zinc is essential for normal functioning of the immune system. Innate immunity, which is the body’s first line of defence and involves recruiting a range of immune cells to the site of infection, and the production of mediators like cytokines by these cells. Adaptive or acquired immunity then comes into play, which is directed against specific pathogens and to specific and often unique components known as antigens. This type of immunity involves cells known as lymphocytes. T-lymphocytes develop a form of cellular memory that can recognise the same antigen if it appears again and B lymphocytes produce antibodies that are proteins designed to kill specific pathogens. This is the principle involved in vaccination. Zinc is essential for the processes involved in both types of immunity. Zinc is involved at several levels in the functioning of immune cells, including cellular signalling pathways and certain enzymes that regulate immune cell activity. Zinc deficiency is associated with immune dysfunction, higher rates of infection, and increased risk of health issues following infection^{11, 12, 13, 14.}

Zinc for diarrhoea:

Zinc is important for maintaining the integrity of the gastrointestinal barrier that acts as a barrier against the outside world and prevents harmful substances and pathogens entering the blood. The gastrointestinal barrier consists of a mucosal membrane comprising a layer of mucus, a layer of specialised cells that are tightly bound to prevent any leakage from the gut, and layer of connective tissue, containing immune cells that protect against intestinal pathogens. Diarrhoea due to gastrointestinal pathogens is a major cause of illness and death in many countries, particularly in children. Clinical studies have demonstrated that zinc supplementation is effective in treating acute diarrhoea as well as persistent diarrhoea1^{5, 16, 17.} Using animal models and in vitro studies the mechanism of action by which zinc reduces diarrhoea have been found to include promoting production of immune cells and antibodies in the gut to help fight the infection with gastrointestinal pathogens. Leaky gut due to failure of the tight junctions of the intestinal mucosa results in increased permeability. Zinc has been found to restore the integrity of the mucosal barrier. Other proposed actions of zinc in reducing diarrhoea include regulating salts and fluid transport across the intestinal mucosa, and reducing oxidative stress by acting as an antioxidant and preventing cell damage^{15, 17, 18, 19, 20.}

Other Ingredients

• Purified water
• Citric acid
• Sodium citrate
• Potassium sorbate

What are the Contraindications of Zinc Oral Drops?

Stop using if you develop any irritation or allergy while taking Zinc Oral Drops. Always read the label and use as directed or seek advice from your healthcare professional. Zinc Oral Drops are considered safe to take during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, as zinc deficiency can cause developmental problems. However, you should always use in consultation with your doctor or health professional to ensure you have the correct zinc levels.

What affects absorption of Zinc Oral Drops?

Zinc absorption is affected by other minerals particularly copper, iron and calcium. If you are taking other oral minerals, do not take them at the same time as you take your Zinc Oral Drops. Also, dietary fibre may decrease the absorption of zinc. Some proteins like meat protein increase absorption of zinc whereas milk protein decreases its absorption.

What are the interactions with Zinc Oral Drops?

The following medications interact with Zinc Oral Drops.

• Quinolone antibiotics like ciprofloxacin or tetracycline antibiotics like doxycycline inhibit the absorption of both the antibiotic and zinc; take Zinc Oral Drops either 2 hours before or after.
• Proton pump inhibitors for reflux like the H2-receptor antagonist cimetidine reduces the absorption of zinc
• Thiazide diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide increase urinary zinc excretion and could cause depletion of zinc levels. 
• Zinc reduces the absorption and action of the anti-rheumatic drug penicillamine; take Zinc Oral Drops either 2 hours before or after.
• Corticosteroids for arthritis, zidovudine for HIV, some blood pressure lowering medications like the ACE inhibitor enalapril, clofibrate for high cholesterol, ethambutol for tuberculosis treatment, and the anticonvulsant valproic acid, may affect zinc levels in the body

What are the Directions for using Zinc Oral Drops?

Dosage:

Mix the recommended dose with water or orange juice in a glass and drink the whole contents. One drop contains 1mg zinc sulphate.

Adults and children over 9 years:

up to 15 drops

Children 4-8 years:

up to 4 drops.

Children 1-3 years:

up to 3 drops.

Recommended Daily Dose:

Do not exceed the recommended daily dose, according to the New Zealand Nutrition Foundation:

1-3 years:

3mg

4-8 years:

4mg

9-13 years:

6mg

14-18years:

7mg female (10mg when pregnant, 11mg when breastfeeding)
11mg male

19+ years:

8mg female (11mg when pregnant, 12mg when breastfeeding)
14mg male

Caution

Do not take more than the recommended dose, unless under supervision of a pharmacist or health professional, as high levels can cause zinc toxicity, with symptoms including nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, diarrhoea and headache.

Product Size

30ml

References

The following references provide scientific support for the use of this product:

1. Roohani N, Hurrell R, Kelishadi R, Schulin R. Zinc and its importance for human health: An integrative review. J Res Med Sci.2013 Feb;18(2):144-57.
2. Prasad AS. Discovery of human zinc deficiency: its impact on human health and disease. Advances in Nutrition. Adv Nutr. 2013;4(2):176-90.
3. Nenkova G, Petrov L, Alexandrova A. Role of Trace Elements for Oxidative Status and Quality of Human Sperm. Balkan Med J 2017 Aug 4;34(4):343-348. 
4. Fallah A, Mohammad-Hasani A, Colagar AH. Zinc is an Essential Element for Male Fertility: A Review of Zn Roles in Men's Health, Germination, Sperm Quality, and Fertilization. J Reprod Infertil.2018 Apr-Jun;19(2):69-81. 
5. Buhling KJ, Laakmann E. The effect of micronutrient supplements on male fertility. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2014;26:199-209.
6. Colagar AH, Marzony ET, Chaichi MJ. Zinc levels in seminal plasma are associated with sperm quality in fertile and infertile men. Nutr Res. 2009;29(2):82-8.
7. Prasad AS, Mantzoros CS, Beck FW, Hess JW, Brewer GJ. Zinc status and serum testosterone levels of healthy adults. Nutrition 1996 May;12(5):344-8. 
8. Gupta M, Mahajan VK, Mehta KS, Chauhan PS. Zinc therapy in dermatology: a review. Dermatol Res Pract.2014;2014:709152. 
9. Rostan, E.F.; DeBuys, H.V.; Madey, D.L.; Pinnell, S.R. Evidence supporting zinc as an important antioxidant for skin. Int. J. Dermatol. 2002, 41, 606–611.
10. Lin P-H, Sermersheim M, Li H, Lee PHU, Steinberg SM, Jianjie Ma J. Zinc in Wound Healing Modulation. Nutrients. 2018 Jan; 10(1): 16.
11. Rink L, Gabriel P. Zinc and the immune system. Proc Nutr Soc. 2000 Nov;59(4):541-52.
12. Prasad AS. Zinc: mechanisms of host defense. J Nutr.2007 May;137(5):1345-9.
13. Wessels I, Maywald M, Rink L. Zinc as a Gatekeeper of Immune Function. Nutrients.2017 Nov 25;9(12). pii: E1286. 
14. Besecker BY, Exline MC, Hollyfield J, Phillips G, Disilvestro RA, Wewers M.D, Knoel, DL. A comparison of zinc metabolism, inflammation, and disease severity in critically ill infected and noninfected adults early after intensive care unit admission. Am. J. Clin. Nutr. 2011, 93, 1356–1364. 
15. Skrovanek S, DiGuilio K, Bailey R, Huntington W, Urbas R, et al. Zinc and gastrointestinal disease.World J Gastrointest Pathophysiol 2014 November 15; 5(4): 496-513
16. Penny ME. Zinc supplementation in public health. Ann Nutr Metab.2013;62 Suppl 1:31-42. 
17. Hoque KM, Binder HJ. Zinc in the treatment of acute diarrhea: current status and assessment. Gastroenterology.2006 Jun;130(7):2201-5.
18. Lamberti LM, Walker CL, Chan KY, Jian WY, Black RE. Oral zinc supplementation for the treatment of acute diarrhea in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrients. 2013;5:4715–4740.
19. Berni Canani R, Buccigrossi V, Passariello A. Mechanisms of action of zinc in acute diarrhea. Curr Opin Gastroenterol. 2011;27(1):8-12