What is Zinc?

Zinc (shown as “Zn” on the periodic table) is a metallic element that is slightly brittle at room temperature and used to make brass in historic times. An abundant element, zinc is the 24th most common element in the Earth’s crust, but what it lacks in rarity it more than makes up for in health benefits.

Zinc is a nutrient vital for many bodily functions – from healing wounds to hearing your favourite tunes – and the second most common trace mineral in your body (after iron). However, the human body can’t produce zinc, meaning that you need to maintain your levels by eating mineral-rich foods or taking zinc supplements, which we’ll discuss shortly.

Research shows that zinc is vital in immune function, maintaining blood sugar and for keeping our skin, eyes, and heart healthy, so maintaining a healthy level of zinc is essential. Thankfully, zinc can be found in a wide variety of natural foods, meaning that a balanced diet is the best way for many people to get their daily recommended allowance of zinc.