by Grace, Kunara Naturopath
When you’re looking to increase your bone density, chances are you’ve been focusing a lot on your calcium intake. That’s important, but there’s a little known-mineral that is rarely related to bone health. I’m referring to zinc, which plays a very important role in promoting bone density and boosting immunity. Zinc deficiency can cause stunted growth in children, because it is so vital for cellular division and activation. This same ability to influence and regulate cellular function applies to zinc intake in adults, including those with low density.
Zinc is required for the proper functioning of an enzyme called alkaline phosphatase. This enzyme has a pH of 10, so it’s very alkaline, and it helps osteoblasts do their bone-building work.
Zinc is also crucial for Vitamin D to get into cells where it can work to build bone. In addition, zinc is actually found in the hydroxyapatite mineral crystals, which make up about half of the weight of your bones.
Your body does not store or manufacture zinc, so it needs to be ingested daily. Foods highest zinc include the following:
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