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Zinc may not be as ubiquitous as magnesium, but it’s still very important to incorporate into your diet. Why? Because the body lacks a specialized zinc storage system. Zinc has a lot of benefits, but three in particular can have a big impact on your daily health.

The Main Health Benefits of Zinc

Zinc Supports Your Immune System

While you only need a little zinc to have your immune system work well, a deficiency could have dire consequences. That’s because zinc is the ingredient necessary to activate T-cells, which are important for two reasons: T-cells attack infected and cancerous cells and they help to control and regulate immune responses. As we know, it's never been more important to have a strong immune system.

Zinc Helps to Heal Wounds

Specifically, it’s important because of the way it interacts with collagen. Collagen is a protein that maintains the structure in skin and other kinds of connective tissue. Zinc, in turn, helps in the production and remodeling of collagen, which is a key property that boosts tissue growth in and around a “wound bed,” thus promoting healing.

Zinc Fights the Common Cold

Many people find that zinc lozenges can help cut down on the severity and duration of a cold. One study actually found that zinc can cut down the length of a cold by 40 percent! The theory is that zinc helps to reduce inflammation in and around the mouth and throat, where much of the cold virus resides.

Which Foods Contain Zinc?

For Sea-Foodies

Oysters 

Lobster

For Meat Lovers

Red Meat

Poultry

For Vegetarians/Vegans

Beans

Nuts

Whole Grains

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