Cancer and zinc

    It is a natural consequence that by reducing inflammation and improving immune coordination, zinc also improves the body’s ability to fight cancer cells.

 

    In addition, zinc actually plays an important role in regulating the expression of the P53 gene. The P53 gene plays an important role in monitoring the cell division cycle and preventing cancerous growth.

 

    Chronic oxidative stress can cause damage to the p53 gene, rendering it useless and leading to its inability to protect genomic stability. In order to be active, p53 needs to bind to zinc, while other metals, such as copper, can displace zinc, leading to p53 misfolding.

 

    Low zinc levels or excess copper and other heavy metals, such as lead, aluminum, cadmium, and mercury, can damage the p53 protein. This is why it is important to test zinc levels regularly.

Some of the most potent zinc-rich foods include:

• Pumpkin seeds

• Chickpeas

• Lentils

• Cashews

• Spinach

• Mushrooms

• Dark chocolate