MS and the zinc connection

According to a 2016 meta-analysis and systematic review of 13 studies, low zinc levels are all too common in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).

The review, published in the American Society of Neurochemistry, hypothesises that zinc deficiency is actively involved in the pathogenesis of MS based on a notable pattern whereby a further reduction of already lowered zinc levels was seen during an MS attack, with levels gradually returning to more optimal levels during remission.

Given its important functions in immune regulation and neurological function, these findings are less surprising, yet act as a potent reminder of the need for this essential mineral in this stressful disease.