Zinc Overdose
Some Facts You Should Know About Zinc Overdose
Can zinc overdose really occur? Zinc is a trace element in our bodies, and also is a trace element in many of the foods we eat to meet our nutritional requirements. How then is it possible to ingest too much, and what are the effects when we do?
The phrase, "all things in moderation", makes sense in many aspects of our lives. We need a certain amount of food to survive, yet an excess of even the most nutritional foods can in some instances be harmful. Sometimes, our bodies just cannot handle an excess of any one food type, no matter how good it may otherwise be for us. Most people like ice cream, and if consumed in reasonable amounts, ice cream is not harmful. In excess however, ice cream can contribute to being overweight, though it generally is not a particularly toxic food.
Our bodies, while needing zinc, will begin to suffer unhealthy effects if too much is being taken in. The problem is not just with the zinc itself, as trace amounts are never harmful. However, there are other trace elements our bodies need, two of which are iron and copper. A zinc overdose can result in inhibiting the absorption of iron and copper. The body then suffers, not so much from an excess of zinc, as from a deficiency in iron and/or copper. This can result in anything from experiencing mild fatigue to more serious problems within one or more of the body's organs.
A much more serious situation arises if pure zinc is ingested. Pure zinc, taken in other than trace amounts, is toxic and can even be fatal. Some animals and birds are extremely susceptible to zinc poisoning. Generally speaking, we never take zinc in any significant amount at any one time, however, over a period of time, an excess of zinc in the body can be the cause of anemia, immune system problems, and gastrointestinal issues. Again, some of this can be the result of iron deficiency due to the inhibiting effect of zinc. An actual overdose of zinc can lead to more severe problems such as kidney failure, and, if inhaled, zinc dust can cause mild to severe respiratory problems. In our everyday lives, we are most apt to experience zinc overdose through ingestion of an excess of zinc supplements.
One of the more common sources of zinc overdose is the zinc oxide supplement. Zinc oxide is generally applied to the skin, particularly as a healing agent, and an overdose seldom occurs when used externally. However, if taken internally as a supplement, a zinc overdose can occur, whether it be from a massive single overdose, or occur over time. While there is no antidote, recovery focuses on treatment of the symptoms, while the concentration of zinc in the body is allowed to diminish over time.
In summary, instances of zinc overdose are relatively uncommon. The first line of defense is always to consult with a physician, or go to a hospital if symptoms appear to be severe.