Zinc News and Research

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Zinc is an essential mineral that is naturally present in some foods, added to others, and available as a dietary supplement. Zinc is also found in many cold lozenges and some over-the-counter drugs sold as cold remedies.

Metals and sulfate particles drive asthma hospitalizations linked to air pollution

Metals, particularly nickel and vanadium, and sulfate particles are the components of fine particulate air pollution (PM2.5) that most strongly contribute to the association between long-term exposure to air pollution and hospitalization among asthma sufferers, according to a new study led by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

29 Aug 2025

Illinois researchers highlight most effective nutritional approaches for GI distress in cancer care

Many modern cancer treatments are highly effective at reducing or eliminating tumors, but they can also cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms that impact patients' quality of life or lead to discontinuation of treatment.

28 Aug 2025

Why zinc may be the missing nutrient in childhood asthma care

The role of zinc in childhood asthma is critical; deficiency may worsen symptoms, while supplementation could provide a safe, effective treatment alternative.

19 Aug 2025

High-potassium diets show consistent mental health benefits

Higher intakes of certain dietary minerals are linked to lower depression risk, with potassium showing consistent benefits in both U.S. and Korean adults. Patterns differ by country, sex, and age, highlighting the role of cultural diets and nutrient bioavailability in mental health.

12 Aug 2025

Scientists link brain lithium loss to early Alzheimer’s changes

Researchers have discovered that naturally occurring lithium in the brain is depleted early in Alzheimer’s disease, especially in the prefrontal cortex, and that restoring physiological levels with lithium orotate in mice can prevent brain damage and memory loss. The findings suggest lithium deficiency may be a modifiable risk factor for Alzheimer’s.

7 Aug 2025

HOXB13 emerges as a context-dependent regulator in cancer biology

HOXB13, a B-class homeobox transcription factor, sits at the hub of developmental gene networks yet has emerged as a double-edged sword in human cancer.

5 Aug 2025

Scientists reveal how rare gene mutations drive schizophrenia risk

Researchers analyzed the largest exome-sequencing dataset to date and identified new rare coding variants and genes linked to schizophrenia risk. The study highlights converging genetic pathways, implicating chromatin organization and GABAergic signaling in schizophrenia neurobiology.

4 Aug 2025

Herbal remedies show promise for treating depression

This scoping review analyzes OTC products for depression, uncovering effective treatments and emphasizing the need for further studies on herbal efficacy.

4 Aug 2025

Copper may protect brain health after stroke

Research shows dietary copper intake boosts cognitive function in older adults, particularly those with a stroke history, highlighting its neuroprotective role.

1 Aug 2025

Zinc from needle shields may contribute to syringe clogging

Employees of the technology transfer centre ANAXAM and researchers from the Paul Scherrer Institute PSI used the unique analytical methods available at PSI to look inside pre-filled syringes.

31 Jul 2025

Patients face vitamin deficiencies years after bariatric surgery

A review reveals dangerous vitamin deficiencies post-bariatric surgery, highlighting the need for improved follow-up to prevent life-threatening complications.

30 Jul 2025

Researchers classify how specific genetic mutations correspond to rare disorders

The NF-κB signaling pathway plays a pivotal role in how our bodies fight infection, heal, and regulate inflammation. At the heart of this pathway is the NEMO protein, encoded by the IKBKG gene.

30 Jul 2025

Fad diets and supplements fuel new wave of hidden skin problems, study finds

A new review explains how fad diets and unregulated supplements promoted online can cause serious skin, hair, and nail problems, often before other symptoms appear. Clinicians are urged to recognize these risks and address health misinformation in the digital age.

22 Jul 2025

Vegan diets support high-level training, but risks of muscle loss

Vegan diets may enhance performance in semi-professional soccer players, but attention to protein and nutrient intake is crucial for muscle preservation.

22 Jul 2025

Meat hummus lowers microbes and raises nutrition

This study reveals meat-infused hummus offers higher protein, iron, and flavor, making it a nutritious option for athletes and health-conscious consumers.

21 Jul 2025

New review identifies promising and under-researched OTC depression aids

Most people have heard of St John's Wort and omega-3s. But did you know there are a lot more over-the-counter herbal products and supplements out there targeting depression? In our review of clinical trials of these products, we found 64 different over-the-counter (OTC) products that have been evaluated for depression – but with differing levels of evidence for each.

16 Jul 2025

Ultra-processed foods threaten brain health in kids and teens, review warns

Children, adolescents, and unborn babies exposed to high levels of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) face increased risks of impaired brain development, cognitive deficits, and long-term mental health challenges. The review underscores how UPF-driven changes in reward pathways, nutrient deficits, inflammation, and the gut–brain axis can have lasting impacts across generations.

13 Jul 2025

Cricket flour pasta offers a safe, sustainable protein alternative

A 10% cricket flour blend in pasta enhances protein and minerals, offering a sustainable solution to malnutrition without compromising safety or flavor.

11 Jul 2025

Pasta gets a protein upgrade with eco-friendly cricket flour

Cricket flour is rich in protein, essential minerals, and healthy fats, offering a sustainable boost to the nutritional quality of wheat pasta. Adding just 10% cricket flour to pasta significantly improves nutrient content and meets daily amino acid requirements while ensuring food safety.

10 Jul 2025

Can dietary copper help protect against dementia and memory loss?

Higher dietary copper intake was linked to better cognitive performance in older US adults, with benefits plateauing above a certain threshold. The effect was especially notable in stroke survivors, but further research is needed to confirm causality.

8 Jul 2025