Seafood such as oysters are foods high in zinc (20mg per 100g consumed). Zinc can also be found in red meat, poultry and offal. Vegetables such as green beans, potatoes and mushrooms as well as whole grains are also sources of zinc, but in general, zinc that is coming from animal foods is better assimilated by the body than zinc coming from vegetables.
Zinc is a trace element that participates in the process of cell division as well as the manufacturing of DNA. It also plays a significant role in the synthesis of insulin and certain amino acids for the production of keratin (a component of hair and nails). Zinc also stimulates the immune system by allowing the creation of white blood cells. The daily recommended dose of zinc is 10mg.