Imagine your pancreas as a precision factory responsible for producing and distributing insulin to control blood sugar. Zinc is the key "engineer" in this factory. Zinc not only helps "package" insulin for storage but also ensures it can be successfully "shipped" to cells throughout the body. If zinc is insufficient, this factory malfunctions, leading to uncontrolled blood sugar.
This is not science fiction, but scientific fact—zinc is closely related to diabetes, yet it is often overlooked by people with diabetes.
Zinc is an essential element in pancreatic beta cells (the "main force" that produces insulin). It acts like "glue," helping insulin molecules form stable hexamer structures for storage and release. Without zinc, insulin cannot work effectively, leading to blood sugar regulation disorders.
Zinc binds to insulin, forming zinc-insulin complexes that promote its biosynthesis and secretion. Meanwhile, zinc activates insulin receptor signaling pathways (such as PI3K/Akt), enhancing cellular sensitivity to insulin.
Research shows that zinc deficiency interferes with these processes, leading to insulin resistance and beta-cell decline—the core issues in type 2 diabetes. Zinc can also mimic insulin action, directly affecting glucose transporters (such as GLUT4) to help cells take up glucose.
People with diabetes often have low zinc levels, which exacerbates hyperglycemia. Epidemiological studies have found that zinc deficiency is associated with reduced insulin secretion and abnormal glucose metabolism. For example, an observational study of type 2 diabetes patients showed that low zinc status promotes oxidative stress and inflammation, interfering with insulin signaling.
Science Analogy: Zinc is the "guardian of insulin," ensuring it is released smoothly from the "warehouse" and "opens the door" to enter cells. Without it, blood sugar is like a car out of control.
The balance between copper and zinc is like a scale. A high Cu/Zn ratio (more copper, less zinc) is common in people with diabetes and can trigger oxidative stress (excessive "toxins" in cells) and block insulin signaling.
Excess copper produces free radicals (such as hydroxyl radicals) that attack insulin receptors and cell membranes. Zinc acts as an antioxidant, neutralizing these "toxins," but when zinc is insufficient, copper's destructive power is amplified.
A high Cu/Zn ratio interferes with zinc absorption, exacerbates insulin resistance, activates inflammatory pathways (such as NF-κB), inhibits downstream insulin signaling (such as PI3K/Akt), and ultimately damages beta cells and causes diabetic complications.
A cross-sectional study of Japanese type 2 diabetes patients found that a high Cu/Zn ratio is associated with decreased kidney function, poor blood sugar control, and metabolic abnormalities. Another study showed that an elevated ratio increases oxidative stress markers (such as lipid peroxidation) and correlates positively with the insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR). A high Cu/Zn ratio may also increase cardiovascular risk because oxidative stress damages blood vessels.
Science Analogy: A high Cu/Zn ratio is like an imbalance of "excessive fire and weak water"—copper is the "fire," zinc is the "water." This imbalance "burns" cells, worsening diabetes.
Supplementing with highly bioavailable zinc (such as zinc glycinate) can restore balance, lower the Cu/Zn ratio, alleviate oxidative stress, and improve insulin function. However, this is not a "magic bullet" and should be personalized.
Zinc supplementation enhances the antioxidant capacity of beta cells, protecting them from free radical damage and promoting insulin secretion and signaling. Animal experiments show that zinc restores beta-cell function in diabetes models and reduces inflammation.
A meta-analysis concluded that low-dose, long-term zinc supplementation (20-50mg daily for several months) improves type 2 diabetes risk factors, such as fasting blood glucose and lipid profiles.
Excessive zinc may interfere with copper absorption, leading to immune issues. Research emphasizes that zinc supplementation requires a doctor's guidance, especially for pregnant women or those with kidney disease. Dietary sources (such as lean meat, nuts, legumes) are preferred, and supplements should only be used when deficient.
Traditional zinc supplementation relies on pills, but food forms are easier to incorporate into daily life. Patent (US20250228274A1) innovates zinc-enriched konjac noodles using calcium hydroxide, konjac fiber, and zinc-enriched yeast.
Features of these noodles:
Simple preparation: Mix ingredients, add water and heat to form a gel, pour into molds and cool. For example, 250g of noodles contain about 10mg of zinc, within the adult upper limit (40mg). Suitable for vegetarians and people with diabetes, it helps lower the Cu/Zn ratio and supports insulin function (based on research but requires clinical validation).
It is recommended to assess the Cu/Zn ratio through serum zinc/copper testing. If the ratio is high (>1.5), consult a doctor about possible supplementation.
Zinc is not a miracle cure for diabetes, but an auxiliary tool. Combined with diet, exercise, and medication, it can help manage diabetes better. Always consult a doctor or nutritionist before starting any supplement regimen.
This article is based on the following research papers:
Disclaimer: This article is based on existing scientific research and is for reference only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice.