Zinc is especially important for healthy growth and development during pregnancy, childhood, and adolescence. Our body stores zinc in cells throughout its tissues, where it contributes to cellular growth, division, and the activity of enzymes, proteins, and DNA. Women typically have around 1.5 grams of zinc in their bodies, while men have approximately 2.5 grams, with the majority stored in our skeletal muscle and bones.
Maintaining zinc balance in the body involves processes such as zinc absorption from our diet, its excretion into the gastrointestinal tract, and reabsorption in the gastrointestinal lumen. As we consume more zinc, the amount absorbed increases, but its fractional absorption decreases.
In clinical settings, healthcare professionals often assess zinc levels through serum or plasma zinc measurements. In healthy individuals, the typical range is 80 to 120 mcg/dL (12 to 18 mcmol/L). Levels below 70 mcg/dL in women and 74 mcg/dL in men may indicate inadequate zinc status. However, these measures have limitations as they can be influenced by factors such as sex, age, and the timing of blood sampling. They may not always accurately reflect dietary or supplemental zinc intake. Additionally, zinc levels can fluctuate due to various factors, such as infections, hormonal changes, and muscle breakdown during weight loss or illness.
According to NHS the amount of zinc you need is about: 9.5mg a day for men (aged 19 to 64 years) 7mg a day for women.
The potentially health-promoting properties of bioactive compounds found in elderberry, especially polyphenols and anthocyanins, have been scientifically investigated. Among the polyphenols found in black elderberry are flavonoids such as proanthocyanidins, chlorogenic acid, and flavonols like rutin, quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhamnetin. Notably, black elderberries are recognized for their high content of another group of polyphenols – anthocyanins, especially cyanidins, which give the berries their dark color.
Anthocyanins are produced by the fruit in response to stress factors such as UV radiation, dryness, or cold temperatures. This protective mechanism helps shield the fruit from DNA damage that could impede proper protein synthesis and cell division. Black elderberries rank among the top three fruits with the highest anthocyanin content – 1374 mg/100 g.
Anthocyanin-rich foods play a crucial role in a healthy diet. Their potential impact on blood pressure, inflammation reduction, and the lowering of the risk of heart disease has been extensively studied in recent years.
Clinical human studies have shown that black elderberry can effectively reduce the duration and severity of symptoms associated with bacterial and viral infections, such as colds and flu.
How does it work?
Three possible mechanisms of action are currently proposed, likely operating concurrently:
- Flavonoids bind directly to the spikes of viruses, preventing them from entering host cells to replicate. This effectively prevents, or at least slows, the development of an infection.
- Anthocyanins decrease the activity of the virus-promoting enzyme neuraminidase, thereby suppressing virus replication.
- Plant polysaccharides – water-soluble fiber contained in ElderCraft® Black Elderberry Extract – stimulate the activity of the body’s own macrophages, which play an important role in the body’s defense system.
