What is Zinc?

Answer:
Zinc is a natural metallic element found in the earth's crust.

Zinc's atomic number is 30, and the atomic symbol is Zn. Zinc is used with copper in making brass, and zinc is used in a wide variety of other products, including health supplements; since zinc, as a trace mineral element, is also a necessary substance for plant and animal life.

Zinc helps to maintain and support the body's immune system, so necessary for helping to prevent or fight disease. Zinc helps with cell growth and healing of wounds, as well. The U.S. Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of Zinc for men is approximately 11 mg per day; and around 8 mg per day for women (11-12 mg per day for pregnant and nursing women).

Zinc is found in a variety of foods, including plant and animal food products. Zinc may be found in these foods:

-Meat and fish: Beef, pork, lamb, turkey, chicken, crabmeat, lobster, salmon, clams, oysters.
-Vegetables: Legumes, nuts and seeds: beans, peas, lentils, peanuts.
-Dairy: Milk, cheese.

Severe zinc deficiencies are characterized by diarrhea, hair loss, slow growth, impotence, slower wound healing, loss of appetite, and other symptoms. Some strict vegetarians may be more susceptible to zinc deficiencies, since plant-derived zinc is less readily absorbed than animal (meat and fish) derived zinc.

Zinc has often been touted as a helpful remedy for the common cold; and apparently no solid conclusions are yet available to support or to disprove that theory. Some studies have shown what appear to be in favor of zinc's ability to help shorten the duration of colds; while other studies have shown somewhat less encouraging results.

As always, be sure to consult with your health professionals regarding safe and effective use of supplements and medications.