A recent study revealed that a daily supplement of zinc can reduce feelings of anger and depression in women.
For the study, researchers randomly assigned 30 women either a multivitamin or a multivitamin plus zinc for a period of 10 weeks. At the conclusion of the study, the women who had received the zinc supplements show increases in their blood levels of zinc, and reductions in scores of depression and anger.
The study was conducted by scientists from Daigaku Junior College and Seitoku University, and their findings were reported in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
The researchers wrote, “Although our findings are preliminary and should be interpreted with caution, they may prompt further investigations to evaluate the relationship between zinc nutriture and mood states in women.”
Interestingly, when similar studies have been conducted in lab animals, females with zinc deficiencies have been shown to have increases in aggression.
Dr. Chad’s Reaction
These findings are not surprising, considering zinc deficiency affects 30 percent of the world’s population. Mood swings are very common among people with a mild zinc deficiency.
Interestingly, men are more likely to be deficient in zinc than women and studies have shown that in addition to increases in aggression, prostate issues increase markedly in men with zinc deficiency. Much zinc, like other nutrients, is removed or destroyed with food processing, so taking a daily supplement is a great idea.
The naturopathic doctor recommends
Zn-Zyme Forte- 1 tablet 1-2 times/day and/or one big handful of raw pumpkin seeds or a serving of oysters everyday.