What is zinc?

Zinc is an essential mineral. It is found in almost every cell in the body and is present in well over 200 of the bodies enzymes.

Why do we need zinc?

Zinc is an important element for maintaining a healthy immune system, therefore it will allow for faster wound healing and fewer infections. Zinc is also necessary to maintain one’s sense of taste and smell, blood clotting, thyroid hormone function and insulin function. Zinc is important for normal growth and development, especially during pregnancy, childhood, and adolescence. Zinc also is a cofactor in many processes within the body, including RNA, DNA and protein synthesis.

Where do we get zinc?

Zinc is primarily found in meat or poultry. Beef is the most common source of zinc, in an American’s diet. Oysters contain the most amount of zinc by weight. Zinc found in meat, poultry, and oysters is easily absorbed by the body. Other sources of zinc include beans, nuts, whole grains, raisins, and dairy products. However, dietary phytates, found in some of these sources, may decrease the body’s absorption of zinc.

Recommended dietary allowance?

5 mg/day for children 0-1 yr
10 mg/day for children 1-10 yr
12 mg/day for women 11 yr and older
15 mg/day for men 11 yr and older