Latest news with #zinc
The Australian
3 days ago
- Business
- The Australian
OCT eyes Tasmanian copper-silver-zinc play
Company secures option to acquire Federation copper-silver-zinc project in Tasmania Historical drilling returned significant mineralisation intercepts. Octava raises $1.5m through a two tranche share placement for exploration and metallurgical testwork Special Report: Octava Minerals has signed a conditional agreement to acquire the Federation copper-silver-zinc project in western Tasmania and received firm commitments from sophisticated investors for a $1.5m placement. Federation comprises two granted tenements covering 121km2 about 12km west of the town of Zeehan and is on the margin of the Heemskirk Granite dome – a multiphase intrusion containing various phases of mineralisation. It is close to several mining centres with processing and infrastructure, as well as a number of hydropower stations. The project has seen historical exploration with Renison drilling 18 diamond drill holes into the Sweeney's prospect in the late 1970s. While eight of the holes missed the target mineralisation, the other 10 holes returned significant intersections such as: 23m grading 1.19% copper, 1.70% zinc, 121g/t silver and 1.17% tin from 71m; 24m at 0.25% Cu, 0.52% Zn, 42g/t Ag and 0.27% Sn from 112m; and 31.4m at 0.19% Cu, 1.92% Zn, 31g/t Ag and 0.62% Sn from 210m. Despite these results, the shape and full tonnage potential of the Sweeney's mineralisation is not well understood with Octava Minerals (ASX:OCT) noting there are strong indications from the historical drilling that a potentially larger remobilised volcanogenic massive sulphide system might be present. Adding interest, the wider Federation project area contains a number of additional prospective exploration targets, which will also be investigated. Location Map - Federation copper-silver-zinc project. Pic: Octava Minerals Placement to fund exploration Demonstrating its firm belief in the prospectivity of Federation, OCT has raised $1.5m through the issue of 50m shares at 3c each to fund preliminary, due diligence exploration and drilling. The two-tranche placement will include one free attaching option exercisable at 8c and expiring in three years for every two shares applied for. Proceeds will also be used to continue encouraging metallurgical testwork with CSIRO at its Byro REE/Li project in Western Australia's Gascoyne region. 'We are very pleased with the strong support for the placement which will be used to continue our planned exploration program and allow us to commence due diligence on the Federation project in Western Tasmania,' chief executive officer Bevan Wakelam said. 'The option on Federation provides a unique opportunity. 'Previous drilling by Renison back in the late 70's at the Sweeney's Prospect encountered significant intersections of copper, zinc and silver, that were never followed up, due a focus on exploration for tin at the time. 'The historic mineral grades, alteration assemblages and geological structures encountered at Federation point to a potentially significant discovery opportunity. The western region of Tasmania has a strong history of prospectivity and mineral discovery.' This article was developed in collaboration with Octava Minerals, a Stockhead advertiser at the time of publishing. This article does not constitute financial product advice. You should consider obtaining independent advice before making any financial decisions.
Daily Mail
3 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
The signs your body is deficient in vital mineral linked to development and immune function
An overlooked vitamin might actually be one of the most important for every part of the body. Zinc is the second most abundant metal vitamin found in the body behind calcium, regulating metabolism, immune health, wound healing and cell growth. But about one in six Americans don't get enough of it through foods like meat, eggs and dairy, as well as legumes and whole grains. The body doesn't produce the mineral on its own, so food and supplements are key for getting enough. Deficiencies could lead to an increased risk of severe infections, infertility and even growth delays. It's rare to be deficient in zinc, though people with eating disorders, substance use disorders or gastrointestinal conditions, as well as vegans and vegetarians, might be at a greater risk. Additionally, older adults often consume fewer foods high in zinc, and their bodies may not absorb or utilize zinc as efficiently, increasing their risk of deficiency. Doctors warn that too much zinc can be toxic, however, leading to nausea vomiting and headaches, so it's important to discuss with a professional before considering supplement use. Slow-healing wounds One of the most common symptoms for people who are deficient in zinc, especially in older adults, is slow-healing wounds. Zinc is a control master of the immune system, especially in all stages of wound healing. It helps promote platelet activity, which is essential for blood clotting, and has been shown to lower inflammation from damaged tissue. It also plays a role in skin cell migration, replacing the outer layer of skin and rebuilding skin structure to close cuts and scrapes. Additionally, the mineral has antioxidant properties, which protects cells from damage throughout the healing process. Fast wound healing is critical because it prevents infections and other contaminants from entering through the open spaces and traveling to the bloodstream. Experts recommend using topical zinc sulfate creams on wounds to speed up the healing process. Hair loss Notice hair clumps in the shower or signs of balding? Zinc - or a lack thereof - may be to blame. One of zinc's many responsibilities includes regulating hair growth and hair follicle health by helping to produce keratin, a protein that provides the structural foundation for hair strands. This means not getting enough may disrupt the hair growth cycle, as it makes hair follicles weaker. Zinc may also regulate the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which can contribute to hair loss. Over time, a zinc deficiency may cause hair thinning and shedding, eventually resulting in conditions like alopecia areata and male pattern baldness. Acne Acne and breakouts may be common among adolescents and teens in puberty, but a zinc deficiency in a person of any age may also lead to unsightly pimples. When expensive skincare products fail, it may be time to look at zinc intake. Acne is one of the most common skin conditions in the US, affecting about 50million Americans. One 2020 review found people with acne tend to have lower zinc levels than people without it. The researchers also found that zinc can help quell your breakouts, leaving you with fewer zits. This could be because zinc has anti-inflammatory properties; similar to how it helps with wound healing, it reduces swelling and redness in the skin. It has also been shown to fight bacteria that cause acne and regulate the production of sebum, which clogs pores and leads to breakouts. Additionally, people with zinc deficiencies have more eczema flare-ups, rashes, and xerosis - dry and scaly skin. These flare-ups occur because the uppermost layer of skin contains the most zinc compared to deeper skin layers. Chronic disease and infections Some evidence also suggests a lack of zinc may fuel chronic diseases. Zinc plays a role in insulin synthesis, storage and secretion, so low amounts of it could inhibit the pancreas from producing enough insulin. Without insulin, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, eventually causing type 2 diabetes. Zinc may also help reduce oxidative stress and strengthen the immune system by increasing the activity of T-cells and natural killer cells, key defenders that protect the body against infections. Recent research has suggested zinc supplementation may help treat common infections like pneumonia. Vision loss Even your eyes may suffer if you don't get enough zinc. Zinc aids in communication between the retinas and the brain. The retina is the light-sensitive layer of nerve tissue in the back of the eye that receives signals and sends them to the brain. Without this line of communication, patients may suffer blurry or distorted vision that can eventually lead to complete blindness. Zinc also helps vitamin A create a pigment called melanin, which protects the eye against UV radiation. Zinc levels in the eyes naturally decline with age, but there is some evidence that supplements, when used in combination with antioxidant vitamins, slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), vision decline that comes with age. Loss of taste If your favorite foods suddenly taste a little off, zinc deficiency could be the reason. Because zinc is required for cell growth and repair, a deficiency would slow the regeneration of taste buds, which naturally break down over time. Fewer taste buds overall decreases the amount of taste receptors in the mouth, which can alter taste. An enzyme called carbonic anhydrase VI, found in saliva, is also dependent on zinc, so this may also disrupt taste perception. And not getting enough zinc disrupts communication between the brain and these diminished taste receptors. Stunted growth Zinc may not get much spotlight, but without it, growth in children can stall. It is essential for healthy growth because of its influence on DNA replication and protein translation. Without enough, cells can't properly divide to make a child grow. Zinc also stabilizes the structure of zinc finger proteins, which are transcription factors that bind DNA and control which genes are turned on or off. This process is essential during bone formation, tissue growth and repair and embryonic development in the womb. A lack of it can slow down growth and development, and deficiency-related symptoms, like loss of appetite and diarrhea, can compound the problem. The mineral may also boost how well vitamin D supports bone health by helping bone cells make more DNA.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
What Happens to Your Body When You Take Zinc
Reviewed by Dietitian Jessica Ball, M.S., RD Zinc is a vital mineral that your body relies on to stay healthy. Since your body can't produce zinc on its own, you need to get it through your diet. Foods like meat, shellfish, nuts and seeds are great natural sources of zinc. This nutrient plays a big part in keeping your immune system strong, helping wounds heal and even supporting your body's production of DNA and proteins. Zinc is especially important for growth and development during key life stages like childhood, adolescence and pregnancy. But why do you need zinc? Having sufficient zinc levels is key to keeping your body running smoothly. Without enough of this powerhouse mineral, you might experience symptoms like weakened immunity, hair loss or slower wound healing, so getting the right amount through your diet or supplements is a simple yet effective way to support your health. Why We Love Zinc Supports the Immune System Zinc is renowned for its immune-supporting properties. Research has shown that zinc is essential for all types of immune cells, helping them respond effectively to various challenges like infections or environmental stressors. It supports key biological processes, including the development of immune cells and their ability to fight off bacteria, viruses and parasites. Additionally, zinc has been linked to conditions like autoimmune diseases and certain cancers which involve the immune system either overreacting or underperforming. Supports Cell Growth and Development Especially important for children and adolescents, zinc is necessary for proper growth and development. Rhyan Geiger, RDN, explains, 'One of the main functions of zinc is to help with DNA synthesis. Zinc helps cells grow and multiply, which is especially important in times of fast growth, like in pregnancy and childhood. Without proper zinc intake, cells may not be able to grow and multiply as effectively.' Improves Wound Healing Zinc may play a role in wound healing. Specifically, zinc may have an impact on pressure injuries (PIs), often known as bedsores. A review was conducted to highlight whether taking zinc supplements can help wounds like these heal faster, and found that zinc supplementation did improve the healing process significantly, making the wounds heal faster and reducing their size. Promotes Eye Health A lesser-known benefit of zinc is supporting eye health, specifically when focusing on age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a condition that affects eyesight, particularly in older adults. One reason zinc might help is that it stimulates a process called autophagy, which helps cells clean up waste, and this process tends to slow down in AMD. Common Signs of Deficiency A zinc deficiency can lead to a range of symptoms, many of which are subtle and may go unnoticed initially. Some common signs include: Weakened immunity Frequent colds or illnesses Slower wound healing Skin conditions such as rashes or acne Zinc deficiency may also result in hair thinning or loss, diminished appetite and changes in taste or smell. Severe deficiencies, though rare, can contribute to stunted growth in children and delayed sexual development in adolescents. Ensuring adequate zinc intake through diet or supplementation is crucial to avoid these potential issues. Recommended Dietary Allowance The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for zinc varies based on age, sex and life stage. For the average adult, the RDA is 11 milligrams per day for men and 8 milligrams per day for women. Those who are pregnant and lactating require more zinc, with RDAs increasing to 11 to 12 milligrams per day to support fetal development and milk production. For children, daily requirements range between 2 to 9 milligrams, depending on age. Meeting these levels ensures your body has enough zinc to perform essential functions, such as supporting immune health and growth. Food Sources of Zinc Here are some good food sources of zinc to help you meet your needs, per the USDA. We especially love how there are both animal and plant sources with zinc readily available: Cooked Ground Beef: 3 ounces provides 5.3 mg of zinc (48% of the Daily Value [DV]) Lentils (cooked): 1 cup provides 2.5 mg of zinc (23% DV) Chickpeas (cooked): 1 cup provides 2.5 mg of zinc (23% DV) Nonfat Plain Yogurt: 1 cup provides 2.4 mg of zinc (22% DV) Cooked Chicken Breast: 1 cup provides 1.4 mg of zinc (18% DV) Cashews: 1 ounce provides 1.6 mg of zinc (15% DV) Choosing a Supplement When dietary intake isn't adequate, choosing the right zinc supplement can help bridge the gap and support your nutritional needs. Zinc supplements come in various forms, including zinc gluconate, zinc sulfate and zinc picolinate, each offering different levels of bioavailability. Consulting with a healthcare professional is strongly recommended before beginning supplementation. They can help determine the appropriate dosage and form based on your individual circumstances. It is also important to be mindful of how zinc supplementation affects the absorption of other minerals, particularly copper. Excessive zinc intake may deplete copper stores in the body, potentially leading to deficiency-related issues. To avoid such complications, consider opting for a supplement that includes copper or incorporate copper-rich foods into your diet. Staying within the recommended upper limit of 40 milligrams of zinc per day for adults is crucial unless otherwise directed by a medical professional. Additionally, prioritizing products that have undergone independent verification can ensure their quality, purity and accurate labeling, giving you confidence in your choice. Our Expert Take Understanding the importance of zinc and ensuring adequate intake can have a significant impact on your overall health and well-being. This mineral is a powerhouse for supporting immunity, growth and repair processes in your body, making it indispensable in your daily diet. By incorporating zinc-rich foods or supplements, when necessary, you can help sustain your health and meet your nutritional needs. Always remember to consult with a healthcare professional if you suspect a zinc deficiency or are considering supplements, ensuring your approach is both safe and effective. With zinc playing such a vital role, prioritizing it in your nutrition plan is a small step that can yield big benefits for your health. Frequently asked Questions What are symptoms of zinc deficiency? Common signs of zinc deficiency include weakened immune function, hair loss, delayed wound healing, loss of appetite and changes in taste or smell. In more severe cases, it can also affect skin health and stunt growth. Can you take too much zinc? Yes, excessive zinc intake—usually from supplements—can lead to nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, and headaches. Long-term overconsumption may interfere with the absorption of other minerals like copper and impair immune function. For adults, the tolerable upper limit for zinc is 40 milligrams. What foods are high in zinc? Zinc-rich foods include ground beef, lentils, chickpeas, yogurt, chicken breast and cashews. Read the original article on EATINGWELL
Reuters
24-07-2025
- Business
- Reuters
Canada's Teck Resources beats profit estimates for second quarter
July 24 (Reuters) - Canadian miner Teck Resources ( opens new tab beat second-quarter profit estimates on Thursday, helped by improved profitability at its Trail operations. Teck's Trail operations, located in British Columbia, is one of the world's largest fully integrated zinc and lead smelting and refining complexes, according to the company website. The company reported an adjusted profit of 38 Canadian cents per share for the quarter ended June 30, compared with analysts' average estimate of 27 Canadian cents per share, according to LSEG data. Teck said London Metal Exchange (LME) copper prices declined by 2% in the June quarter compared with a year earlier and averaged $4.32 per pound. The company produced 109,100 metric tons of copper in the reported quarter, and cut its full-year copper production guidance to 470,000 tons to 525,000 tons. Teck expects to produce 525,000 tons to 575,000 tons of zinc in the current year. The results come against the backdrop of U.S. President Donald Trump's threat to impose a 50% tariff on copper imports, starting August 1. Teck exports the vast majority of its copper to Asia and Europe. Trump's proposed 50% tariff on U.S. copper imports is unlikely to directly impact Teck, given its minimal exposure to the U.S. market. However, the tariff could tighten global supply and push prices higher, indirectly boosting Teck's revenue and margins.
Yahoo
23-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Chevron says zinc levels in U.S. Mars oil output within limits
HOUSTON (Reuters) -Chevron on Tuesday said recent testing indicates that zinc levels in flagship U.S. offshore crude Mars' production stream were now within expected levels. The start-up of an offshore well caused zinc contamination in Mars crude, Chevron had said earlier this month, leading to tightening crude oil supply in the key Gulf Coast refining hub and the government releasing barrels from its emergency stockpile.
