Zinc

Found in numerous foods, (red) meat, poultry, fish and seafood (oysters, crab and lobster), pulses, nuts, whole grains and dairy products.

Zinc (symbol Zn) is a trace element, which means the body only needs small amounts of it. Zinc is present in every cell of the body. The highest levels of zinc are found in the muscles and bones. Phytic acid or phytates, which are present in whole grain products, cereals and legumes, bind zinc and prevent its absorption.

• Zinc plays an important role as a cofactor of many enzymes in the body.
• It is involved in carbohydrate, protein and fatty acid metabolism.
• It has a function in cell division and is therefore important during rapid growth in childhood, adolescence and pregnancy.
• It is important for the normal function of the immune system. Zinc supports the activity of a large number of immune cells.
• It is involved in DNA synthesis and in the normal maintenance of bones.
• It acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from the damaging effects of free radicals.
• Zinc plays a role in wound healing by promoting the renewal of skin cells.
• It is involved in neurological function. For example, it influences the interaction between brain cells (e.g. in the part of the brain responsible for learning and memory).
• Zinc supports vision.
• It is required for normal function of the sense of taste and smell. Zinc activates areas in the brain that receive and process information from the taste and smell cells.