1/6
Zinc is a micronutrient which is important for healthy skin and hair and also improves immunity. However, what many people do not know is that this mineral can help woman in every stage of her life right from menstruation and pregnancy to dealing with post menopausal symptoms. Scroll to know how!
2/6
According to a 2007 study published in the Medical Hypotheses [1], increasing the intake of zinc relieves debilitating menstrual cramps, known as primary dysmenorrhoea, which is seen during the first few days of menstruation. Zinc inhibits metabolism of prostaglandins, inflammatory compounds which cause painful contractions.
3/6
Did you know that deficiency of zinc is linked with recurrent vaginal candidiasis? Yes, a study in the American Journal of obstetrics and gynecology [2] showed that zinc plays a key role in preventing mucocutaneous infection caused by Candida albicans. Hence, increasing the intake of zinc in women can improve immunity and prevent your risk.
4/6
Of the other important nutrients like folic acid, iron and calcium during pregnancy, it is advised to increase the intake of zinc. This is because, a mild deficiency of zinc during pregnancy is associated with maternal morbidity, prolonged gestation, inefficient labour and growth impairment of fetus [3]. Hence, make sure your diet contain zinc-rich foods like spinach, pumpkin seeds, tofu and cashews.
5/6
Just like iron, zinc is found to act as an adjunct to traditional antidepressant therapy and also to improve symptoms in pre-menopausal women [4]. It is also shown to improve mood and cognitive function in menopausal women, who go through numerous hormonal changes as they age, thus helping them to deal with mood swings, which are quite common during menopause.
6/6
A 2007 study published in the Journal of International Medical Research [5] revealed that women suffering from osteoporosis also lack zinc and increasing the intake of zinc through supplements can improve bone density. Hence, it is important to get your daily dose of zinc (along with calcium), especially after menopause to lower your risk of osteoporosis.
