Zinc is an essential trace mineral that is present in all our body fluids and tissues. It has many benefits; it helps to support the immune system, and thyroid function, aids wound healing, and supports growth & development. It also plays a vital role in reproduction and hormone health; it promotes ovulation, fertilization, sperm development, and maintaining normal pregnancy.
Studies have shown that supplementing zinc could be beneficial for women with PCOS.
If you have low levels of zinc, you could experience
Loss of appetite
Frequent colds or infections
Poor skin health
Hair loss
Diarrhoea
Decreased sense of smell and taste
Lack of alertness
Slow wound healing
Lot of foods contain zinc but less so in plant-based foods. Good sources are:
Seafood especially oysters, crab, lobster
Beef
Lamb
Chicken
Cashews
Chickpeas
Pumkin seeds
Nuts
People who may be at risk of zinc deficiency are vegetarians, vegans, with chronic digestive issues and women taking birth control pill.
During viral infection, you can increase your zinc intake and take a supplement. However, not to take it continously without checking your blood levels.