Zinc is a trace mineral, meaning that the body only needs in small amount. It is a major player in the creation of DNA, growth of cells, building proteins, healing damaged tissue, and supporting a healthy immune system.

Zinc helps your immune system and metabolism function. It is also important for wound healing and to enhance your sense of taste and smell. With a varied diet, your body usually gets enough zinc.

It is considered an essential nutrient, meaning that your body can’t produce or store it.

For this reason, you must get a constant supply through your diet.

Oysters contain more zinc per serving than any other food, but red meat and poultry provide the majority of zinc. Other zinc food sources include

beans

nuts

certain types of seafood (such as crab and lobster), -whole grains

fortified breakfast cereals

dairy

Although severe zinc deficiency is rare, it can occur in people with rare genetic mutations, breastfeeding infants whose mothers don’t have enough zinc, people with alcohol addictions and anyone taking certain immune-suppressing medications.

Symptoms of severe zinc deficiency include impaired growth and development, delayed sexual maturity, skin rashes, chronic diarrhea, impaired wound healing and behavioral issues

Milder forms of zinc deficiency are more common, especially in children in developing countries where diets are often lacking in important nutrients.

Those at risk of zinc deficiency include:

People with gastrointestinal diseases like Crohn’s disease

 Vegetarians and vegans

Pregnant and breastfeeding women

Older infants who are exclusively breastfed

People with sickle cell anemia

People who are malnourished, including those with anorexia or bulimia

People with chronic kidney disease

Those who abuse alcohol

To sum it up, Zinc is an essential trace mineral and can be found in a lot of food. Are you taking enough zinc? Are you suffering from zinc deficiencies? To help answer all your questions, call us at 800-GETSLIM (800-4387546) and book your appointment today!