Is Zinc Necessary For Dialysis Patients

Is zinc necessary for dialysis patients? Many people know about zinc for its immune boosting properties, but this mineral is actually a wonder of health benefits. Zinc is so important because it is found in every tissue in the body and is directly involved in cell division. Zinc indeed is necessary for dialysis patients.

Zinc deficiency can lead to diarrhea, low energy, chronic fatigue, infertility, poor immunity, bad memory, inability to focus, nerve dysfunction and ringing in the ears. All these are possible to worsen dialysis patients’ illness conditions. Dialysis patients need to take zinc adequate zinc because zinc has the following health benefits:

1. boost immune function

Zinc deficiency profoundly affects the immune system because low zinc produces a direct and rapid decline in T cell function. T cells elevate the body’s immune system when viruses, bacteria, or challenges to health arise. Therefore, people need more zinc to counter inflammation, support the immune system, and ensure healthy cell function.

2. improve cardiovascular health

People with kidney disease are at a higher risk for cardiovascular disease than those without renal disease. Poor zinc status can have a negative cardiovascular effects of a high-fat, high-cholesterol diet, whereas an enough zinc intake can have a protective effect and inhibit the progression of heart disease.

3. prevent diabetes

Diabetes is a leading factor for kidney disease and it also can cause further kidney damage if left untreated. Zinc is needed for the healthy function of most hormones, including insulin. It can make cell become more sensitive to insulin and prevent diabetes.

4. avoid depression

Tolerant dialysis can make people experience depression. It surely has to do with the role of zinc in neurotransmitter and hormone production. Thus, it is reasonable to ensure zinc intake is adequate when treating depression.

Adequate zinc intake provides a favorable environment for improving patients’ condition and slows down the progression of kidney disease. Thereby, zinc is an important part of living well with dialysis.