No, zinc deficiency lowers alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels. Supplementing with zinc often restores normal ALP levels.
Understanding the Relationship Between Zinc and ALP
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found in various parts of the body, including the liver, bones, and intestines. Its levels in the blood can indicate several health conditions. Zinc plays a crucial role in the body's proper functioning, and its deficiency has been linked to lower ALP activity.
Several studies show a strong correlation between zinc deficiency and decreased ALP levels. Animal studies demonstrated significantly lower ALP activity in the liver, kidney, and small intestine of zinc-deficient rats. [^1, ^2] Furthermore, clinical studies have shown that zinc supplementation in individuals with zinc deficiency restored normal ALP levels. ^3 This indicates that adequate zinc intake is necessary for maintaining normal ALP activity. [^4, ^5]
However, it's important to note that low ALP can result from various factors beyond zinc deficiency, including deficiencies in other nutrients like magnesium and vitamin deficiencies. Low ALP can also be caused by certain medications or by excess vitamin D. [^6, ^7] Conversely, some preliminary research suggests that low zinc levels might increase ALP activity in specific circumstances such as in human osteosarcoma cells. ^8 But this is not conclusive evidence to suggest that Zinc directly lowers ALP.
Practical Insights
- Zinc deficiency: If you have low ALP levels, your doctor may check for zinc deficiency.
- Zinc supplementation: Zinc supplementation should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Self-treating can be risky.
- Other factors: Low ALP is often multifactorial and can be caused by a variety of issues. A thorough assessment is crucial.
[^1]: Zinc deficiency lowers alkaline phosphatase activity in animals. People with zinc deficiency are more likely to have low alkaline phosphatase and a range of other associated health problems. Supplementing with zinc restored normal alkaline phosphatase levels in one clinical study [7, 8].15-Dec-2022
