The mineral zinc is found in many detox products because it is very beneficial to maintaining a well functioning immune system.  The white blood cells in our bodies utilize zinc to operate and fight against disease.  Zinc is vital to hundreds of enzymes in our system to keep our bodies functioning at their best.  Zinc is an important mineral for the body to absorb many other minerals and vitamins and is essential to a healthy thyroid.  It also helps fight the aging process and aids in the healing of wounds and infections.

Taking a zinc supplement can also protect our kidneys from harmful heavy metals like arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury.  Also, people who suffer from cirrhosis of the liver can improve their condition by using a zinc supplement.  Zinc is an essential mineral for maintaining your sense of sight, taste and smell and also helps with the release of insulin, so it is a very good supplement for people with diabetes and who are at risk for diabetes.

There are elements that are found in our bodies known as free radicals.  These occur naturally in the body and can be damaging to our system.  Air pollution, cigarette smoke and ultraviolet light can increase the amount of free radicals.  These damaging particles contribute to the aging process and the development of heart disease and cancer.  Zinc is one mineral that fights free radicals because it helps with the absorption of vitamin E which is a very powerful antioxidant.  Adding a zinc supplement to your diet can help defer the aging process.