Simple nutrient deficiency could set off a domino-effect of disease

About a year ago, I told you about one of the most serious hazards of aging. It’s a condition called immunosenescence. Or, as I refer to it—immunity rot. It refers to the gradual erosion of your immune defenses with age. And it can pave the way to any number of chronic health problems.

But researchers recently discovered that a simple nutrient deficiency may be at the root of this potentially deadly condition.

In a new study, researchers from Oregon State University discovered that zinc deficiency resulted increased inflammatory response in cells. And as I’ve mentioned many, many times before, inflammation is the driving force behind every major disease there is. Cancer, Alzheimer’s, diabetes—you name it.

Inflammation is also one of the hallmarks of immunity rot.

So flipping the switch on all these conditions may start with making sure you’re getting enough zinc.

Unfortunately, most people AREN’T getting enough of this essential mineral. In fact, the lead author of the study came right out and said that she and her research team believe zinc deficiency is far more common than people realize.

Part of the problem is that the RDA for zinc is dismally low. Current recommendations only call for 8 mg of zinc per day for women and 11 mg per day for men—regardless of age. Not nearly enough to keep your immune system operating at peak performance.

The researchers also pointed out that the body doesn’t store zinc very efficiently, so regular intake is especially important.

You can get zinc from red meat, seafood, nuts and eggs—all foods I heartily recommend. But I also recommend a daily dose of at least 30 mg per day.

Source:

“Skin Test May Aid Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s Diagnosis.” Medscape Medical News, 2/25/15

“Zinc deficiency enchanced inflammatory response by increasing immune cell activation and inducing IL6 promoter demethylation,” Molecular Nutrition & Food Research, epub ahead of print 3/17/15