Is an essential mineral for health. It is involved in numerous aspects of cellular metabolism: catalytic activity of enzymes, immune function, protein synthesis, wound healing, DNA synthesis, and cell division. It also supports normal growth and development during pregnancy, childhood, and adolescence and is required for proper sense of taste and smell. Dietary sources include beans, nuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, whole wheat bread and animal sources.
Optional listing on nutrition label unless added as a nutrient supplement. It is a mineral and helps form protein in the body; it assists in wound healing, blood formation and general growth and maintenance of tissues. It is part of many enzymes and insulin.
A key mineral involved in over 200 different body functions. It is necessary for growth, immune function, wound healing, sensory functions and mental health. Good sources of zinc are oysters, shellfish and red meats, plus pumpkin seeds, whole grains and legumes.
A cofactor of a variety of enzymes mediating metabolic pathways, such as alcohol dehydrogenation, lactic dehydrogenation, superoxide dismutation, and alkaline phosphorylation. It occurs especially in meat, (whole) grains, and legumes. The DRI varies from 8 to 12 mg/day, depending on the age, while the zinc intake is about 10 mg/day. See http://www.nap.edu for age and gender recommendations. Zinc deficiency affects DNA damage, oxidative stress, antioxidant defenses, and DNA repair. Acute toxicity, including gastrointestinal irritation and vomiting, has been observed following the ingestion of 2 g or more of zinc in the form of sulfate.
Zinc is a micromineral that participates in many vital functions within the body. Dietary zinc is obtained by a variety of foods including protein rich foods such as meat, fish, poultry, and oysters, as well as whole grains and some vegetables. Some of zinc’s functions include involvement with protein synthesis, energy metabolism, sexual maturation, immune function, and taste. Many of the roles of zinc are carried out through its function as a cofactor for enzymes. Zinc deficiency produces an array of problems including abnormal growth and reproduction, poor wound healing, dysgeusia (abnormal taste), decreased immune function, and various other problems.
A mineral needed in the body, though only in trace amounts, in a wide variety of functions, including normal growth and development, especially of the reproductive system, the manufacture of proteins, and the healing of wounds. Zinc is abundant in high-protein foods, such as meat (especially liver), seafood, milk and other dairy products, nuts, dried beans and peas, and whole-grain or enriched breads and cereals. Deficiency is rare, except in cases of malnutrition; disorders that hinder the body’s ability to use zinc (such as malabsorption, cystic fibrosis, or cirrhosis OF the liver); or situations involving sharply increased need for zinc, as in cases of burns or sickle cell anemia. Symptoms of zinc deficiency include loss of taste and appetite, slowed growth and sexual maturation in children, slow healing of wounds, and susceptibility to infection and injury. On the other hand, too much zinc, as from taking excessive amounts in mineral supplements, can cause gastrointestinal problems, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which can also lead to loss of iron and copper. Excess zinc among pregnant women can lead to premature delivery and stillbirth.
Metallic element essential to normal body metabolism. Zinc compounds (e.g., zinc sulfate, zinc oxide) are also widely used as astringents in creams, ointments, and powders for skin irritations and minor wounds.
A metal necessary in trace amounts in body; the level in serum and urine may be elevated in zinc poisoning and some other conditions.
A mineral essential for cell production, normal growth and development, tissue repair and growth, and production of sperm and testosterone. Zinc is found in meats, poultry, eggs, milk, yogurt, oysters, nuts, legumes, and whole-grain cereals. There is some evidence that over-the-counter zinc supplements may shorten the duration of cold symptoms.
A metal, several salts of which are used in medicine for external application. It is essential for growth and development in animals and plants. The average human body contains a total of 1-2 grams, and most human diets contain 10-15 mg. Deficiency of zinc results in lack of growth, slow sexual development and anaemia. It is also associated with a skin disorder known as acrodermatitis enteropathica.
A bluish-white, crystalline metallic element that boils at 906°C; atomic weight, 65.37; atomic number, 30; specific gravity, 7.13. It is found as a carbonate and silicate, known as calamine, and as a sulfide (blende). Dietary sources are meat, including liver; eggs; seafood; and, to a lesser extent, grain products.
Zinc is a vital trace element crucial for regular growth, the development of reproductive organs, proper prostate gland function, protein and nucleic acid production, and wound healing within the body. Additionally, zinc plays a regulatory role in over 100 enzyme activities and is integral to the function of the hormone insulin. Foods rich in zinc comprise lean meat, seafood, dried beans, wholemeal bread, and wholegrain cereals.
Zinc deficiency is an uncommon occurrence, primarily affecting individuals who suffer from general malnutrition. Insufficient zinc levels can also be attributed to conditions leading to poor nutrient absorption, such as acrodermatitis enteropathica, a disorder affecting zinc absorption, or heightened zinc demands due to cellular damage, such as that seen in burn injuries or sickle cell anemia.
Signs of a deficiency may encompass altered taste perception, reduced appetite, and potential symptoms like hair loss and inflammation affecting the skin, mouth, tongue, and eyelids. In children, insufficient zinc can hinder growth and delay the onset of sexual development.
Continued excessive consumption of zinc can disrupt the absorption of iron and copper in the intestines, potentially resulting in a deficiency of these essential minerals.
Zinc compounds, like zinc oxide, are commonly found in various products used to address skin and scalp issues.