Zinc is an extremely important part of the diet . Zinc has a variety of properties, including the potential to strengthen the immune system and help in wound healing, helping to relieve stress, strengthen bones, improve brain function, and aid in the synthesis of insulin.
Without zinc in your diet, a number of health issues can creep in. These may include shortened stature, lethargy, slow wound healing, poor appetite, taste and smell, acne, diabetes, impotence, infection and poor blood circulation.
Zinc is common in high protein foods including beef, pork and lamb. However, vegetarian sources of zinc include yeast, beans, mushrooms, wheat germ, onion, whole grains, mustard, nuts, peas, beans and carrots. Eggs, some fish and liver also contain high zinc levels.