Zinc is a trace mineral. But it is found in cells throughout the body. The body’s immune system requires zinc to function optimally. And guess what – it also helps you use the senses of smell and taste.
Zinc helps in the production of about 100 types of enzymes in our body. It acts as an antioxidant and neutralizes the effects of free radicals, reducing risk of cancer.
It also stimulates the production of blood in the body. It promotes the synthesis of collagen, which is a necessary element in wound healing.
More importantly, zinc is a must during pregnancy, infancy, and childhood. The body needs zinc to grow and develop properly.
Simply put, it could be a trace mineral and your doctor would have forgotten to stress on its importance – but you would only be inviting illness without adequate levels of zinc. Here are 8 foods high in zinc to add to your diet:
1. Oysters
Apart from zinc, oysters are also rich in protein. And the best part is they boost your protein intake without increasing your fat consumption. They are also rich in vitamin C – one serving covers about 15 percent of your daily requirement of the vitamin. Vitamin C is great for immunity while protein enhances muscle and cell health.
How to include in your diet
You can have them broiled with herbs. Even raw oysters work wonderfully well, especially when combined with horseradish. But be careful where you get them as they also are a common cause of food poisoning.
2. Sesame seeds
Sesame seeds are also a great source of phytosterols, compounds that help lower cholesterol. Another compound in sesame seeds, called sesamin, helps balance hormones and boosts overall health. The seeds are also high in protein.
How to include in your diet
You can use sesame seed butter in the place of peanut butter on your toast. The seeds also pair very well with salmon or chicken – you can make a delicious homemade granola.
3. Flax seeds
Flax seeds are also extremely rich in omega-3 fatty acids – nutrients that boost heart and brain health – in addition to offering numerous other benefits. The seeds also aid in the treatment of arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
How to include in your diet
You can add ground flax seeds to your breakfast smoothies or salads. You can also sprinkle the seeds on cooked vegetables.
4. Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are also rich in phytoestrogens that improve cholesterol levels in postmenopausal women. The seeds are also rich in antioxidants that give your health a boost.
How to include in your diet
You can add the seeds to your bedtime salad – this nighttime snack can also boost sleep quality.
5. Oats
One of the most popular breakfast choices, if you ask us. The most important nutrient oats contain is beta-glucan, a powerful soluble fiber. This fiber regulates cholesterol levels and enhances the growth of good bacteria in the gut.
Oats can also improve blood sugar control, and that’s something important, given the rise in diabetes cases across the globe.
How to include in your diet
You can simply have oats for your breakfast. That would be the easiest way to increase your zinc intake.
6. Cocoa powder
The zinc in cocoa powder enhances immunity, and given it’s something we all love (that finger-licking dark chocolate) – getting adequate amounts of zinc shouldn’t be a problem. Cocoa powder is also rich in flavonoids that boost immunity.
How to include in your diet
Add cocoa powder to your coffee or tea. You can also use unsweetened cocoa powder in gravy, protein shakes, and hot cereal.
7. Swiss cheese
It is important to note that cheese is one healthy source of calcium – the mineral you need for strong bones. And since it is an animal source, Swiss cheese is considered a complete protein – it contains all the amino acids your body requires to make protein.
However, practice moderation as Swiss cheese also contains saturated fat that may not be healthy if taken in large amounts.
How to include in your diet
You can add a slice of Swiss cheese to your sandwich or bowl of soup. Add shredded cheese to your vegetable salad. Or have it with scrambled eggs.
8. Egg yolk
Egg yolk is replete with other nutrients as well. It contains vitamins A, D, E, and K. The yolk is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids. And more importantly, the yolk contains the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin – compounds that boost vision health.
How to include in your diet
Boiled egg yolk is a good option – you can add it to your salad.
