What Is Zinc
Zinc is the second most abundant trace mineral in the body. Since it cannot be produced or stored, daily intake from food or supplements is essential.
Why Zinc Is Important
Zinc supports insulin regulation, metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and nucleic acids, and plays a vital role in growth and tissue repair.
It is also widely known for supporting immune health, reducing infection risk, and maintaining taste and smell, which are closely linked to appetite.
Recommended Daily Zinc Intake for Children
Zinc requirements vary by age, ranging from 2 mg in infants to 8 mg for older children.
Zinc and Appetite
Poor appetite may be linked to reduced taste and smell sensitivity, which can occur due to stress, processed foods, or post-viral effects.
Research suggests zinc deficiency may impair enzymes critical for taste and smell, leading to reduced appetite.
How to Improve Zinc Intake
Animal-based foods such as oysters, red meat, poultry, cheese, shrimp and crab offer higher zinc absorption than plant-based sources.
When choosing supplements, zinc citrate and zinc picolinate are better absorbed and gentler on the stomach.
Zinc should be taken at least two hours apart from calcium or iron to avoid absorption interference.
Recommended product: Kids Immune Support Gummies with Zinc.