Tuesday, February 4, 2014

Zinc: the health benefits of Zinc

What is zinc and what does it do?

Zinc is a nutrient that people need to stay healthy. Zinc is found in cells throughout the body. It helps the immune system fight off invading bacteria and viruses. The body also needs zinc to make proteins and DNA, the genetic material in all cells. During pregnancy, infancy, and childhood, the body needs zinc to grow and develop properly. Zinc also helps wounds heal and is important for proper senses of taste and smell.

What foods provide zinc?

Zinc is found in a wide variety of foods. You can get recommended amounts of zinc by eating a variety of foods including the following:
Oysters, which are the best source of zinc.
Red meat, poultry, seafood such as crab and lobsters, and fortified breakfast cereals, which are also good sources of zinc.
Beans, nuts, whole grains, and dairy products, which provide some zinc.

Info source: http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Zinc-QuickFacts/


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