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Zinc is an important trace
element involved in antioxidant reactions. It can boost your
immune system and has been reported to be effective in fending
off bad colds. Vegetarians should be conscious of ensuring an
adequate intake of zinc.
Natural Food Sources
Beef, black beans, blackstrap molasses, chicken heart, egg yolk,
fish, lamb, maple syrup, milk, nuts, oysters, pork, sesame
seeds, soybeans, sunflower seeds, turkey, wheat germ, whole
grain products, yeast.
Main Functions
Zinc is a component of insulin and over 100 enzymes, proteins,
nucleic acids and hormones. It helps in the healing of wounds,
tissue repair, growth, energy conversion and sexual development.
It regulates blood sugar, blood pressure, heart rate and
cholesterol levels.
Deficiency Symptoms
Although uncommon, zinc deficiency symptoms include anemia,
stunted growth, birth defects, sterility, mental problems, skin
problems, hair loss and a decreased ability to taste food. If
your diet is too rich in copper or iron, it could lead to a zinc
deficiency.
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