Zinc

Function

Zinc is involved in numerous aspects of cellular metabolism. It plays a role in immune function protein synthesis, wound healing, DNA synthesis and cell division . Zinc also supports normal growth and development during pregnancy, childhood, and is required for proper sense of taste and smell.

Food sources

Zinc is mostly found in

  • Red meat and poultry
  • Crabs and Lobsters
  • Beans
  • Whole Grains
  • Nuts
  • Fortified Breakfast cereals
  • Dairy Products

Deficiency

Zinc deficiency results in following issues

  • Growth retardation
  • Diarrhea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Delayed sexual maturation
  • Impaired immune function
  • Eye and skin lesions
  • Weight loss
  • Delayed healing of wounds
  • Taste abnormalities

Source: U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Zinc-HealthProfessional/