Is Zink useful for Darmgesundheit?

Zinc is an essential trace mineral that plays a key role in gut health. It supports intestinal barrier integrity, modulates inflammation, and is crucial for immune function. Evidence indicates that zinc deficiency is associated with increased intestinal permeability ('leaky gut') and a higher risk of diarrheal diseases, especially in children. The WHO recommends zinc supplementation for acute diarrhea. However, the evidence for general preventive benefits in healthy adults is limited. Long-term high intake (e.g., >40 mg/day) can cause nausea, copper deficiency, and immune dysfunction. For chronic conditions like Crohn's disease or IBS, some studies suggest benefits, but no strong clinical guidelines exist. Testing zinc status before supplementation is advisable. In summary: zinc is useful when deficiency is present or for specific indications, but it is not a universal remedy for gut health.