Overview

Zinc is a nutrient found throughout the body. It helps the body's immune system and metabolism work correctly. Zinc also is important for wound healing and for the sense of taste.

Most people who eat a healthy, varied diet get enough zinc. Zinc can be found in foods such as beef, chicken, fish, seafood, and fortified breakfast cereals.

Some people take a zinc supplement by mouth to help treat colds. But it's important to know that if you take a zinc supplement, it could lessen the effectiveness of some other medicines. And zinc can cause side effects.

Women age 19 and older who are not pregnant should get 8 milligrams (mg) of zinc a day, and men age 19 and older should get 11 mg. The amount of zinc needed every day is different for children and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you have questions about how much zinc you need, talk with your healthcare professional.