This trace mineral is a cofactor in more than 20 enzyme functions and an insulin constituent Required for protein synthesis and collagen formation, enhances immunity and wound healing, regulates taste and growth, detoxifies alcohol in the liver, regulates Vitamin E concentration in the blood, and increases Vitamin A absorption- A daily external supply is required Deficiency symptoms include anemia, loss of taste and smell, thin and peeling nails with white spots, acne, fatigue, hair loss, impaired night vision, impotence and sterility, high cholesterol, decreased protein synthesis, memory impairment, prostate troubles, recurrent colds and flu, skin lesions, and slow wound healing Pregnancy increases deficiency risk
It is not easily oxidized in moist air, and hence is used for sheeting, coating galvanized iron, etc
Zinc is a bluish silver metal, ductile when very pure but brittle otherwise. It forms brass (with copper) and many other alloys. Its major use is in galvanizing iron, steel, and other metals. Zinc is an essential trace element, particularly in red blood cells; in snails, it corresponds to iron in the blood of vertebrates. Zinc oxide is used as a pigment, ultraviolet light absorber (to prevent sunburn), dietary supplement and seed treatment, and photoconductor. Zinc's many other compounds (in which it has valence 2 or, rarely, 1) are used in industrial and consumer applications, including as pesticides, pigments, mordants (see dye), fluxes, and wood preservatives
(NC020) Helps maintain a healthy body Needed for the production of thyroid hormones which are vital to growth, development and the control of our metabolic rate
a metallic trace element that plays a role in Imo cell maturation and activation, and in wound healing Deficiency leads to slow healing and possible mental symptoms
Optional on nutrition label unless added as a nutrient supplement A mineral Helps form protein in the body Assists in wound healing, blood formation and general growth and maintenance of all tissues Part of many enzymes and insulin
What it's good for: Essential for normal growth, development and immunity Helps maintain skin, hair and bones Keeps reproductive organs functioning and helps in the perception of taste and the ability to see at night Where you get it: Beef, poultry, liver, oysters, eggs and dairy products RDA: Between 12 to 15 mg for women and 15 mg for men
An abundant element of the magnesium-cadmium group, extracted principally from the minerals zinc blende, smithsonite, calamine, and franklinite, as an easily fusible bluish white metal, which is malleable, especially when heated