Zinc

An essential mineral naturally present in foods such as oysters, beef and dark chocolate. It can assist the function of senses such as smell and taste, build new cells and proteins, maintain a healthy immune system, and is involved in almost every physiological function in the body. Zinc deficiency can slow down the healing of wounds and reduce appetite, taste and smell. The recommended zinc intake per day in the UK is 5.5-9.5mg per day for men and 4-7mg per day for women, which you should be able to obtain through your daily diet. Zinc can help the absorption of vitamin C.