Zinc is an essential trace mineral involved in over 100 enzymatic reactions. It is critical for immune function, wound healing, and normal growth.

Functions:

• Immune function — required for T-cell development and function
• Wound healing
• Protein and DNA synthesis
• Normal growth and development
• Sense of taste and smell
• Insulin function

Deficiency effects: Impaired immunity (increased infections), poor wound healing, growth retardation in children, loss of taste/smell, hair loss, dermatitis.

COVID-19 connection: Loss of smell/taste (a hallmark COVID-19 symptom) is also a classic sign of zinc deficiency — raising interest in zinc's antiviral role.

Best sources: Oysters (highest zinc food on earth), red meat, poultry, crab, pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, cashews.

Absorption note: Phytates in plant foods inhibit zinc absorption. Vegetarians and vegans have higher zinc requirements.

Reference:

Wikipedia: Zinc

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zinc