Acne
Acne is a common woe with most adolescents. Sometimes people continue to get acne even in their 20s and 30s. Acne normally surfaces on the face, neck, chest and back. Overactive sebaceous glands on the skin and blocked follicles lead to the formation of acne. This happens when the sebum plugs the folicles and the bacteria therein lead to acne. Acne is not caused by dirt or improper cleansing of the skin. The overactive oil glands tend to form whiteheads, blackheads and pimples.
Hormonal changes are the most common cause for acne. Hereditary and certain medications can also make a person prone to acne. Stress can trigger an attack of acne due to overactive adrenal glands. It is essential not to touch, pinch or squeeze the pimples. It can lead to scarring and formation of pits.
A dermatologist can help in healing the pimples and prevention of scarring. A person suffering from acne must follow a meticulous cleansing routine. Topical creams may be prescribed to help mild cases of acne. These may include products containing retinol-A, benzoyl peroxide and vitamin A acid-like drugs. Corticosteroids are used in the treatment of severe acne. Antibiotics such as tetracycline, doxycycline, minocycline or erythromycin are often prescribed for acne. Birth control pills have been seen to be effective in controlling acne. Skin treatments such as microdermabrasion and glycolic acid peels are used to treat scars and pitting caused due to prolonged and severe acne.
Zinc deficiency
Zinc is an important trace mineral that is found in almost every cell of the human body. It plays many crucial roles in our daily lives. Zinc plays an important role in the growth-height, weight, and bone development in infants, children and teenagers. Zinc helps in building healthy immune system by playing a crucial role in the development of the white blood cells called T-lymphocytes. Increased levels of zinc in the human body have proven effective in fighting pneumonia, diarrhea and infection. Zinc can also reduce the duration and severity of a common cold.
Causes of Zinc Deficiency
- Excessive caffeine or alcohol consumption.
- Medications like ace inhibitors (blood pressure medications), diuretics and antacids.
- Diets high in carbohydrates.
- Ingredients in the food colorings yellow, green, orange and the food additive tartrazine can deplete the bodies zinc reserve.
Symptoms of zinc deficiency include loss of the senses like taste and smell, white spots on the fingernails, acne, delayed sexual maturation, growth impairment, hair loss, high cholesterol levels, impaired night vision, impotence, increased susceptibility to infection, infertility, memory impairment, prostrate trouble, recurrent colds, and flu, skin lesions and slow wound healing.
Zinc supplements
Several forms of zinc exist and are known as zinc amino acid chelate, zinc gluconate, zinc sulfate, and zinc chloride. Zinc supplements come in the form of tablets, liquid, capsules and lozenges. One of the most effective and absorbable zinc supplements is zinc chelate. Research indicates that zinc absorption can be improved if the supplement is taken as lozenge and dissolved in mouth. Zinc is generally not combined with iron supplements, which is usually given during pregnancy. Follow the dose prescribed by your doctor, as overdose can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, lower the level of HDL cholesterol and also lead to poor immune system function.
Doctors opine that acne and Rosacea are linked to zinc deficiency. Zinc Glucanote and Zinc oxide are the two widely used zinc supplements to treat acne. Zinc plays an important role in the growth of children. Adding zinc supplements to a growing child reduces the incidence and severity of childhood infections. Research also indicates that zinc supplement can reduce child mortality especially in the below poverty areas.
Natural zinc supplements
The foods we consume are the best sources of zinc. Foods that contain zinc include red meat, fish, oysters, whole cereals, cheese, nuts, chicken, beef, wheat germ, bran, eggs, bread, sugars and preserves, canned vegetables, green vegetables, potatoes, fresh fruits and pumpkin seeds.
Vitamin B2
This is essential for converting carbohydrates into energy and produce red blood cells. Significantly, this vitamin is important for vision. Vitamin B2 or Riboflavin is essential for fat and protein metabolization. Vitamin B2 boosts the immune system, maintains healthy hair and helps functioning of the nervous system. Deficiency of Vitamin B2 can lead to acne, muscle cramps, carpal tunnel syndrome and migraine headache. Best natural sources of Riboflavin are meat, eggs, legumes, nuts, dairy products, green leafy vegetables, broccoli, asparagus, and fortified cereals.
RDA - Recommended Daily Allowance:
Adults - Men: 1.3 mg
Adults - Women: 1.1 mg
Pregnant Women: 1.4 mg
Breastfeeding Women: 1.6 mg
Vitamin B2 is generally well tolerated and rarely produces adverse side effects like sensitivity to light with high doses. Supplements of Riboflavin can result in bright yellow urine.
Bibliography / Reference
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