Zinc
Minerals
Type:
Trace Minerals
Functions:
Transport of vitamin A, taste, wound healing, sperm production, fetal development. Plays a part in many enzymes, hormones (insulin), genetic material, and proteins
Deficiencies:
Decreased appetite, growth failure in children, delayed development of sex organs, reduced immune function, poor wound healing
Toxicity:
Fever, vomiting, diarrhea, gastric distress, dizziness
Recommended Intakes:
RDAs:
15 mg/day for adult males
12 mg for adult females
15 mg for adult females - pregnant
19 mg for adult females - lactation 0-6 months
16 mg for adult females - lactation 7-12 months
15 mg for males ages 10+
12 mg for females ages 10+
10 mg for children ages under 10
5 mg for infants
Food Sources:
Beef, fish, poultry, grains, vegetables