Zinc and Zinc Ionophore (Quercetin, EGCG, Elderberry)

Zinc and Immune Health

Zinc plays a crucial role in supporting immune health, influencing the immune system in several ways. I

Zinc is essential for maintaining immune function within every cell of the body!
Zinc supports the immune system's innate resistance to pathogens, including secondary pathogens.
Consuming zinc alone is not very effective - most of it remains outside the cells, where it is less useful. Zinc needs to get inside the cell.
When a virus lives inside the cells of the body, the zinc must be able to get into the cell.
This is where zinc ionophores come into play, as they are needed to transport zinc into the cells, where it can effectively support immune function.

Read more here about the additional functions of zinc.

in 2020, the nutrition experts at Healthy Goods knew there was a need for a zinc and zinc ionophore all in one product, which is why ImmunoZinc was created.

What is a Zinc Ionophore?

A zinc ionophore is a compound that facilitates the transport of zinc across the cell membrane, allowing it to enter the cell and provide immune support where it’s needed most. Zinc ionophores also support a healthy inflammatory response, particularly when triggered by immune cells.

Key Zinc Ionophores Include:

Zinc ionophores include Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) and quercetin.

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG): A powerful polyphenol found in green tea. EGCG is a potent zinc ionophore.
Quercetin: A flavonoid found in high concentrations in elderberry, citrus peels, onions, and apples. Quercetin is another effective zinc ionophore.

Quercetin: a "Zinc Activator"

In recent years, quercetin has gained recognition as a crucial partner to zinc.

Quercetin helps zinc enter the body's cells, where zinc can then support innate resistance to pathogens and overall immune function. Remarkably, quercetin also promotes magnesium uptake into cells, which is vital for various aspects of immune health. This synergy between zinc, quercetin, and magnesium highlights the amazing ways in which natural nutrients work together.

In addition to its immune-boosting properties, quercetin helps combat free radical damage, supporting healthy and normal levels of inflammation in the body.

I highly suggest making this DIY citrus ginger tea for immune and digestive support. The citrus peels from oranges, tangerines, grapefruit, and lemons provide a great dose of quercetin, adding another layer of immune support.