Healthypedia
Healthypedia

Why Do You Need Zinc?

Zinc is a vital mineral with widespread roles in human health, from immune function to bone structure and sensory perception.

seafood zinc

Why is zinc important for health?

Zinc is an essential trace mineral that plays a vital role in human health. It is required for the function of approximately 300 enzymes and 2,500 transcription factors, which amounts to about 8% of the human genome.1

The importance of zinc lies in its extensive involvement in our body’s metabolic processes. For instance, it plays a significant role in immune system health and cell division. Inadequate zinc intake can lead to various health issues such as growth retardation, neurological disorders, and problems with wound healing.2, 3

What is the recommended daily intake of zinc?

The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for zinc is 11 mg/day for men and 8 mg/day for women not pregnant or breastfeeding.1

How to maintain healthy zinc levels?

Nutrition recommendations for zinc intake suggest a balance, as excessive intake can lead to a copper deficiency, whereas too little can impair essential functions.1

Oysters reign as the top provider of zinc, with abundant reserves also found in red meat and poultry. Additional noteworthy sources of zinc encompass various seafood, nuts, whole grains, breakfast cereals, and dairy items.

seafood zinc

There are different forms of zinc supplements available, such as zinc gluconate, zinc citrate, zinc acetate, zinc oxide, zinc picolinate, and zinc sulfate, with each form offering varying amounts of elemental zinc.4

When considering zinc supplements, it is crucial to take precautions since excessive intake of zinc can lead to copper deficiency, as these minerals compete for absorption. Long-term supplementation with high doses of zinc should be monitored to avoid such imbalances.3


Healthypedia FAQ

Zinc is a mineral that is essential for various bodily functions. It plays a crucial role in immune function, wound healing, DNA synthesis, cell division, and many other processes.

You can get enough zinc from foods such as meat, seafood, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and dairy products.

The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for zinc is 11 mg/day for men and 8 mg/day for women not pregnant or breastfeeding.

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