Zinc improves insulin sensitivity

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Tuesday, January 11, 2005 10:08 am Email this article
A zinc supplement can improve insulin sensitivity according to a new study from Brazil. Zinc involved in metabolism of carbohydrates and fats

Zinc is also involved in protein synthesis, as well as the metabolism of carbohydrates, and fats.

Caution: Zinc should be balanced with copper

Caution: Zinc should be balanced with copper.

Most articles that I have seen recommend a 10-to-1 ratio of zinc-to-copper. However, I remember reading—although I cannot find the source right now—that Dr. Leslie Klevay at the US Department of Agriculture, who, in my mind is the top copper researcher, has said that the optimum ratio is about 4.5-to-1.

This means that every 4.5 mg of zinc should be balanced with 1 mg of copper.

REFERENCE

Marreiro D, Geloneze B, Tambascia M, Lerario A, Halpern A, Cozzolino S. [participation of zinc in insulin resistance.]. Arq Bras Endocrinol Metabol. 2004 Apr, 48(2):234-39.

AUTHOR’S CONTACT INFORMATION

Departmento de Alimentos e Nutricao Experimental
Faculdade de Ciencias Farmaceuticas
Universidade de Sao Paulo
Sao Paulo, Brazil

Articles on the same subject can be found here:

• Copper

• Zinc