Zinc

Zinc is a mineral that is essential to human health.

 

Zinc

  • Zinc is an essential mineral found in most human cells. Zinc is found in a wide variety of foods. Zinc is better absorbed in animal products than plant products due to phytates found in whole grains, legumes, and more.

  • Zinc is essential for growth and development, a healthy immune system, wound healing, maintaining smell and taste, DNA synthesis, and is involved in over 100 enzymatic reactions.

  • 11 mg/day is recommended for adult males and females. Requirements increase to 12 mg/day during lactation. Some examples of approximate zinc content in food include one oyster (12.8 mg), 3 oz ground beef (4.3 mg), and 1/2 cup cooked legumes (1.0-2.7 mg).

 

Zinc

  • Is especially important during periods of growth

    Having adequate zinc is essential during periods of rapid cell growth such as pregnancy, childhood, and adolescence.

  • Is essential for a immune system

    Zinc is found in almost every human cell and helps support a healthy immune system.

  • Is required for wound healing

    Zinc is necessary for proper wound healing.

  • Zinc helps maintain taste and smell

    Zinc is important for maintaining the sense of taste and smell.

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Increase Your Zinc Intake

  • Eat animal foods

    Zinc is better absorbed from animal foods and is highest in oysters, followed by red meats, poultry, dairy, and dairy products.

  • Eat plant foods

    Plant foods such as legumes, nuts, whole grains, and fortified breakfast cereals are good sources of zinc.

  • Consider a supplement

    Vegans and vegetarians might consider a supplement because zinc is not well absorbed from plant foods.

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