Zinc
Zinc’s Role in the Body
Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, including the immune system, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. It is also necessary for the proper growth and development of children, and pregnant and breastfeeding women have an increased need for zinc.
Recommended Daily Intake of Zinc
The recommended daily intake of zinc varies depending on age, gender, and certain health conditions. In Europe, the recommended daily intake for adults is 9,5 mg for men and 7 mg for women/day. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) also provides reference values for different population groups, such as pregnant and lactating women, who require slightly higher amounts of zinc.
The optimal daily intake of Zinc
The optimal daily intake of manganese varies from person to person, but one of the most reliable sources when it comes to nutrition, The Council for Responsible Nutrition, states that the UL-value, the highest level of daily intake of a nutrient that is likely to pose no risk of adverse health effects for almost all individuals in the general population, is the following for manganese: 30 mg from supplements only.
Zinc deficiency
Zinc can occur in people with certain medical conditions, such as malabsorption disorders, or in those who follow a strict vegetarian or vegan diet. Symptoms of zinc deficiency include hair loss, diarrhea, impotence and delayed wound healing.