Zinc

Recommended Daily Allowance: (FDA) 15 mg for adults, pregnant, and lactating women.

Physiological Effects: A component of insulin found in many enzymes.  Aids in manufacturing of nucleic acids.  Important in growth and development of reproductive organs. Maintains normal prosthetic function. Is an extremely important element for stimulating immune systems.  Important to the absorption and action of vitamins and phosphorus.  Maintains body's acid-alkaline balance, reduces cholesterol deposits.

Deficiency Disorders: Retarded growth and fatigue.  Prolonged healing of wounds.  Potentates diabetes.  Loss of smell and taste.  Acne. Prosthetic problems, anorexia.

Natural Sources: Seafoods, Brewers yeast, sunflower seeds, organ meats, soybeans, liver, milk, nuts.

Synergistic Substances: Vitamin A, calcium, copper, and phosphorus.

Antagonistic Substances: Lack of phosphorus, excess of copper, cadmium, oral contraceptives, Orasone, Prednisone, Sterazolidin, alcohol, excessive consumption of calcium.