Zinc foods help to give you the many benefits of zinc. Foods high in zinc are usually animal meats or shellfish such as oysters.
Other zinc rich foods can be plant based and help with daily zinc requirements. The average adult will need 12 mg of zinc everyday to meet the daily requirement of this essential nutrient.
We absorb only 20 to 40 percent of the zinc that is in our food and zinc reserves can be depleted by alcohol, pregnancy and being athletic.
Phytic acid found in whole grains, fiber in vegetables, and celiac disease can all interfere with zinc absorption. The symptoms of zinc deficiency are numerous as zinc is such an important nutrient needed by your body in order to properly function.
The Benefits of Zinc are Numerous
Helps with Acne and Pimples
Connected with Smooth and Supple Skin
Promotes Collagen Formation
Supports your Immune System
Increases Sperm Production
Increases Enzyme Production
Supports Healthy Hair Growth
Promotes a Healthy Prostate
Supports Healthy Nails
Proper Functioning of DNA
Relieves Chronic Fatigue
Good for Night Blindness
Helps with Mood Problems
Treats Eczema
Increases Wound Healing
Lessens Symptoms of Colds
Healthy Reproductive Organs
Foods High in Zinc
Oysters
Liver
Red Meat
King Crab
Organic Turkey (Dark Meat)
Organic Chicken (Dark Meat)
Pork
Zinc Rich Foods
Shrimp
Lobster
Clams
Yogurt
Chickpeas
Baked Beans
Miso
Wheat Germ
Sesame Seeds
Pumpkin Seeds
Cashews
Cheese
Organic Milk
Green Peas
Napa Cabbage
Asparagus
Spinach
Crimini Mushrooms
Shitake Mushrooms
Lemongrass
Almonds
Peanuts
Symptoms of Zinc Deficiency
Weight Loss
Poor Appetite
Decreased Sense of Taste & Smell
Weak Immune System
Delayed Wound Healing
Impaired Glucose Metabolism
Low Libido
Delayed Puberty
Menstrual Problems
Acne & Rough Skin
White Spots on Nails
Brittle Nails
Mentally Slower
Dwarfism
Diarrhea & Inflammatory Bowel
Cataracts
Night Blindness
Sleep Disorders
Blood Pressure Problems
Hair Loss and Dandruff
Stretch Marks
Reduction in Collagen Production
Prostate Problems
Paranoia
People who eat strict vegetarian or vegan diets may have low zinc levels and probably have some form of zinc deficiency. Symptoms of zinc deficiency need to be corrected before they lead to more serious disorders or problems.
On the other hand if you consume too much zinc foods, you could experience abdominal cramping, diarrhea and vomiting. This may apply to people who consume lots of liver, oysters, or zinc supplements.
Pumpkin Seeds
