A number of nutrients play key roles in supporting immune health, including the zinc. Here's what you need to know about how this essential mineral functions within the body.

What Is It?

• A trace mineral obtained through one’'s diet
• Food sources include meat, eggs, seafood, dark chocolate, beans, lentils and seeds such as hemp, pumpkin, sesame and squash

How Does It Support Immune Health?

• Essential for proper immune system function; deficiency has been associated with reduced ability to fight infection^{†The information provided is not an endorsement of any product, and is intended for educational purposes only. NaturesPlus does not provide medical advice and does not offer diagnosis of any conditions. Current research on this topic is not conclusive and further research may be needed in order to prove the benefits described. The conditions and symptoms described may be indicative of serious health problems, and therefore should be brought to the attention of a qualified healthcare practitioner.}
• Studies have found zinc to improve markers of immune function in older adults (increasing age has been linked to impaired immune response)^{†The information provided is not an endorsement of any product, and is intended for educational purposes only. NaturesPlus does not provide medical advice and does not offer diagnosis of any conditions. Current research on this topic is not conclusive and further research may be needed in order to prove the benefits described. The conditions and symptoms described may be indicative of serious health problems, and therefore should be brought to the attention of a qualified healthcare practitioner.}
• Has been found to reduce the duration of cold symptoms^{†The information provided is not an endorsement of any product, and is intended for educational purposes only. NaturesPlus does not provide medical advice and does not offer diagnosis of any conditions. Current research on this topic is not conclusive and further research may be needed in order to prove the benefits described. The conditions and symptoms described may be indicative of serious health problems, and therefore should be brought to the attention of a qualified healthcare practitioner.}

What Supplemental Forms Are Best?

• Available in strengths up to 100 mg and in multi-mineral combinations
• Available as part of immune-support formulations*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
• Available in dual-action lozenge form providing support for both the immune system and the upper respiratory system*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
• Children’s formulations also available

What Are Its Other Functions?

• Required for reproductive health in men and women†*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
• Supports proper growth and development in children, both during pregnancy and after birth*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
• Plays a role in supporting eye health*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

What Else Should I Know?

Oysters contain zinc, which helps explain their folk reputation as an aphrodisiac