Including zinc in supplements is essential because of its importance to overall health. This mineral is key to maintaining an optimal balance in the body, and deficiency can have a negative impact on several areas of health.

Below, we will list the general benefits of zinc, as well as those specific to those seeking high athletic performance.

General benefits of zinc include

1. Immune System Strengthening: Helps immune cells fight infection, essential for maintaining good health.
2. Wound Healing: Accelerates recovery from injuries by facilitating cell regeneration.
3. Natural Antioxidant: Protects cells from oxidative damage, contributing to optimal health.
4. Metabolism Regulation: Participates in the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats, maintaining adequate energy levels.

Benefits of Zinc for Athletes

1. Improved Immune Performance: Strengthens the immune system, essential for intense exercise.
2. Hormone Production: Essential for testosterone production, key to muscle development and recovery.
3. Protein Synthesis: Facilitates muscle repair and growth, crucial after exercise.
4. Fatigue Reduction: Helps improve endurance and minimise fatigue, allowing for more intense training.
5. Accelerated Recovery: Reduces inflammation and speeds recovery after intense workouts.

With this information in mind, we highlight the importance of maintaining adequate levels of zinc in our bodies. To do this, we can obtain it from a variety of sources, such as lean meats, seafood, legumes, nuts and dairy products. However, in most cases, it is necessary to complement a good diet with a supplement to ensure we reach the ideal levels of zinc, especially for those who do intense physical activity or seek to optimise their performance and recovery.