The recommended daily zinc intake to meet daily needs is 8mg for women and 11mg for men. The recommended amount is higher for pregnant and lactating women and children. Phytates, calcium, and dietary zinc can hinder the absorption of zinc. Therefore, pregnant and lactating women who take zinc supplements may require additional zinc supplementation.(A diet high in calcium and low in protein can also decrease zinc absorption)
| Group | Recommended Daily Intake |
|---|---|
| Pregnant women 14 to 18 | 13 mg/day |
| Pregnant women 19 and older | 11 mg/day |
| Breastfeeding women 14 to 18 | 14 mg/day |
| Breastfeeding women 19 and older | 12 mg/day |
Red meat and fish are high in zinc , while white meat and young animal meat have lower zinc content. Wheat germ and whole bran are good sources of zinc , but their zinc content decreases when milled. zinc is primarily found in protein-rich food sources. zinc absorption depends on the digestion of proteins and the subsequent release of zinc . It then binds to peptides, amino acids, phosphates, and other ligands in the digestive tract.
