What You Should Know About Zinc

By
Alicia McWatters, Ph.D., C.N.C

Zinc is a trace mineral responsible for many metabolic processes in the body. It has more jobs than any other trace mineral. It occurs in the body in greater amounts than any other trace mineral except iron. Most cells of the body contain zinc and it is a *cofactor of many enzymes. It is also a vital constituent of the hormone, insulin. It is known that over 100 enzymes need zinc to function properly. These enzymes are involved with the metabolism of carbohydrates and the synthesis of proteins, RNA and DNA, especially in connection with building proteins. Zinc also assists in heme biosynthesis, carbon dioxide transport (carbonic anhydrase) and with the secretion of proteases for digestion.

It is important in connection with cell division. Therefore, all cells dividing rapidly; such as during the healing of a wound, need a good supply of zinc. This mineral is necessary for growth and for reproduction and is closely associated with vitamin A activity by facilitating the release of vitamin A stores from the liver. It is also important for a healthy immune system.

Increased excretion of zinc is often found with kidney diseases and liver problems. Diabetics may also excrete more zinc. Zinc levels are generally low during chronic infection, protein malnutrition, renal disease and cardiovascular disease.

The most common problems associated with a zinc deficiency are:

slow healing of wounds
loss of appetite
weight loss
susceptibility to infection, repeated infection
skin trouble – dryness, flakiness, affects tissue in airways and lungs, and inhibits oil gland function
dryness of and loss of feathers, brittle nails
changes of senses (taste, smell and vision)
weakness
hormonal disturbances
reduced body-growth
signs of reduced protein building of keratin in feathers and collagen in skin.
reduced fertility
deformed embryos - esp. bones and central nervous system
thyroid dysfunction
behavioral disturbances
arthritic conditions
malabsorption problems

In addition, large doses of iron inhibit zinc absorption and visa versa.

It is important to understand that there are many types of zinc. When zinc is consumed from fresh natural unprocessed foods it is perfectly safe and cannot harm your bird’s body. Some foods that contain appreciable amounts of zinc are whole grains, eggs, wheat germ, brewer’s yeast, legumes, peas, leafy greens, nuts and seeds (sunflower, pumpkin, mustard and sesame). Some of the herbs that are excellent sources of zinc are alfalfa, dandelion, chickweed, parsley, rose hips, cayenne, and garlic. Animal protein foods provide a higher level of zinc than carbohydrates or plant protein foods. A mixed diet can provide your bird with ample quantities of zinc.

When zinc is consumed accidentally from environmental sources, it becomes a potential danger to your bird. There are a number of items that contain zinc that may end up in your bird’s cage and eventually in its mouth. Some of these items are the innocent looking chains, clips, quick-links, and toy parts that are used to manufacture toys for birds. The source of zinc may even be your bird’s cage or the formulation used to powder-coat the cage. Those cages or aviaries that are made with *galvanized wire also contain zinc. Food dishes may also be a source of zinc if they are galvanized. The form of zinc usually used in these items is zinc oxide, though other forms of zinc may be used. Zinc oxide is often used in supplements and manufactured diets.

If you suspect that your bird may have ingested zinc from one of the above items or from a number of other zinc-containing sources, you should take your bird to the veterinarian. Ask that a blood test be performed to learn what the blood zinc level is in your bird’s body. Radiographs may be helpful to identify metallic fragments in the intestinal tract. If metallic fragments are found your veterinarian may suggest removing them. There are a number of removal techniques.

Common symptoms of zinc intoxication are:

gastrointestinal disturbances
polyuria or polydipsia
weight loss
weakness
sleepiness
loss of balance
seizures
anemia
damage to the pancreas, liver and kidneys

Common conventional treatments for zinc toxicity are calcium disodium versenate or calcium disodium ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (CaEDTA), d-penicillamine (PA), dimercaprol or dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA). These are chelating agents that promote the excretion of zinc. Chelating agents are given either intramuscular (IM) or orally.

EDTA causes calcium depletion as well as depletion of other minerals, i.e. magnesium. Potential side effects are vomiting, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, high blood pressure, kidney damage, possible seizures, blood clots in the veins, redness, pain, and if given by injection, rash at the site of injection. Contraindicated in those with a history of seizures or with kidney disease. Should be used very cautiously in those with poor heart function or diabetes. EDTA should always be given in conjunction with calcium.

Calcium EDTA can cause the following adverse reactions: vomiting, loss of appetite, headache, numbness, irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure, kidney dysfunction, joint and muscle pain, chills, sneezing, excessive thirst, fatigue, nasal congestion and if given by injection, rash at the site of injection. It is contraindicated in severe kidney disease.

The use of d-penicillamine (a metabolite of penicillin) can potentially cause a drop in white blood cells, autoimmune disease, loss of taste, loss of appetite, nausea, and skin problems such as rash, blood spots, redness, and is contraindicated in those with kidney disease.

Dimercaprol has its side effects as well. The most common ones are pain or tightness in throat, chest or feet, muscle pain or weakness, conjunctivitis, runny nasal passages, nausea, vomiting, kidney damage, abdominal pain, high blood pressure, and headache. Contraindicated in those with liver or kidney dysfunction.

The potential side effects of DMSA are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loose stools, rash, stomach and abdominal cramps, respiratory distress and headache.

A supportive care program in conjunction with conventional treatment is highly recommended. If the blood zinc level is not elevated too high or if you just prefer the natural way, a natural chelating program can be instituted with often a very successful outcome.

Remember that all birds require zinc in the dietary form in order to thrive and live a long life. A supplemental form of zinc is rarely required. Be sure your birds are provided with this very important nutrient through natural whole foods.

*A cofactor is a vitamin or mineral that works with an enzyme to facilitate a chemical reaction.

*Galvanized refers to metals that have been treated with a zinc-containing coating for rust prevention.