Zinc is a trace mineral essential for building muscle, a proper immune system, hormone function, and sexual health. It can be found in oysters, beef, chicken, legumes, and nuts. You can also take zinc supplements to make sure you’re getting enough. But what does zinc have to do with building muscle and getting fit? Let’s find out.
You’ve probably heard that protein is essential for building muscle. But you may not know that zinc is just as essential, if not more so. Zinc is a mineral that plays a significant role in protein synthesis, which is necessary for building muscle. Not only that, but zinc also boosts your immune system and helps your body repair after exercise. In other words, zinc is essential for building muscle and getting fit.
Are you working out but not seeing the results you want? You might be missing zinc. Zinc is essential for over 300 enzymes in the body, and it plays a role in everything from DNA synthesis to cell growth and repair. In short, you will not build muscle if you’re not getting enough zinc.
Here’s a closer look at the power of zinc for building muscle and getting fit
Zinc Is Involved in Protein Synthesis
Zinc is involved in the body’s protein synthesis process. This means that it helps the body build muscle after exercise. A study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that taking a zinc supplement helped people who were resistance training gain more muscle mass than those who didn’t take a supplement. If you’re looking to build muscle, zinc may give you a boost.
As we mentioned, zinc is necessary for protein synthesis. But what exactly is protein synthesis? It’s the process by which your body builds new proteins, using amino acids as the building blocks. Amino acids are the “building blocks” of muscles, so without protein synthesis, your muscles wouldn’t be able to grow. That’s why zinc is essential for bodybuilders and other athletes; it enables your muscles to grow bigger and stronger.
Zinc Boosts Testosterone Levels
Testosterone is the hormone responsible for muscle growth. Zinc plays a role in maintaining healthy testosterone levels. A study published in the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine found that taking a zinc supplement significantly increased testosterone levels in athletes. Zinc may be worth considering if you want to increase your testosterone levels and muscle-building potential.
Zinc and Your Immune System
In addition to helping with protein synthesis, zinc strengthens your immune system. That’s important for two reasons. First, a robust immune system helps your body recover from exercise more quickly. When you work out, you cause tiny tears in your muscle fibers. In response, your body repairs those tears by making new proteins—a process boosted by zinc. Second, a robust immune system helps prevent illness, so you can keep working out without interruption. No one wants to miss a week of training because they’re sick!
Zinc and Overall Health
Finally, it’s important to mention that zinc is essential for overall health. Zinc deficiency can lead to many problems, including hair loss, diarrhea, impotence, and delayed wound healing. Zinc also affects metabolism, sexual and vision health, and more. Simply put, there’s no substitute for this vital mineral.
So how do you know if you’re not getting enough zinc? Look for these signs:
-You’re constantly getting sick. Zinc produces white blood cells, which are essential for fighting off infection. If you get sick more often than usual, it could be a sign that your zinc levels are low.
-You’re having trouble healing from injuries. Zinc is required for wound healing, so if you find that cuts and scrapes take longer to heal than they should, lack of zinc may be to blame.
-You’re losing your hair. Zinc plays a role in healthy hair growth, so if you notice more hair falling out than usual, it could be due to a zinc deficiency.
Talk to your doctor if you think you might be deficient in zinc. They can order a simple blood test to check your levels and recommend supplements or dietary changes to help get your zinc levels up.
And remember, even if you’re not deficient, adding more zinc-rich foods to your diet can help improve your workout results. So stock up on zinc-rich foods like oysters, beef, pork, chicken, beans, nuts, and seeds—and get ready to see some serious gains!
The Last Word on Why Zinc is the Key to Building Muscle and Getting Fit
Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a role in building muscle and many other vital processes in the body, including protein synthesis, hormone function, and sexual health. It can be found in oysters, beef, pork, chicken, beans, nuts, and seeds. or taken as a supplement.
Zinc may help you increase your testosterone levels, which is essential for getting fit and building muscle. If you’re looking for an edge in your fitness journey, consider adding zinc to your supplement regimen.
As you can see, zinc is essential for anyone looking to build muscle and get fit. If you’re not getting enough zinc through diet alone—and let’s face it, most people aren’t—then consider taking a supplement. Zinc can go a long way in helping you reach your fitness goals!
