What is Zinc?
Zinc is an essential mineral that is vital for numerous biological functions. It plays a key role in immune function, protein synthesis, wound healing, DNA synthesis, and cell division. Zinc is also necessary for the proper sense of taste and smell.
Benefits of Zinc
Immune Function: Supports the immune system and helps fight off infections.
Protein Synthesis: Necessary for the synthesis and repair of proteins.
Wound Healing: Aids in the healing of wounds and the maintenance of skin integrity.
DNA Synthesis: Essential for DNA replication and cell division.
Taste and Smell: Necessary for the proper function of taste and smell receptors.
Foods High in Zinc
Here are some foods rich in Zinc along with their approximate Zinc content per 100 grams and the percentage of the daily recommended value (DRV) they provide. The DRV for Zinc is approximately 11 milligrams (mg) for men and 8 mg for women.
Top Sources of Zinc for Carnivores
Oysters
Zinc content: 32 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 291% for men, 400% for women
Oysters are the richest source of zinc.
Beef
Zinc content: 8.4 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 76% for men, 105% for women
Beef is a high source of zinc.
Lamb
Zinc content: 6.7 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 61% for men, 84% for women
Lamb is another excellent source of zinc.
Pork
Zinc content: 2.9 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 26% for men, 36% for women
Pork offers a moderate amount of zinc.
Chicken (Dark Meat)
Zinc content: 2.4 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 22% for men, 30% for women
Chicken dark meat provides a good amount of zinc.
Top Sources of Zinc for Vegans
Hemp Seeds
Zinc content: 9.9 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 90% for men, 124% for women
Hemp seeds are an excellent source of zinc for vegans.
Pumpkin Seeds
Zinc content: 7.8 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 71% for men, 98% for women
Pumpkin seeds are exceptionally high in zinc.
Chickpeas
Zinc content: 1.5 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 14% for men, 19% for women
Chickpeas are a good plant-based source of zinc.
Lentils
Zinc content: 1.3 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 12% for men, 16% for women
Lentils are rich in zinc and other essential nutrients.
Quinoa
Zinc content: 1.1 mg per 100g
% of Daily Need: 10% for men, 14% for women
Quinoa is a nutritious grain that contains zinc.