Zinc Deficiency and Covid-19

Lower levels of plasma Zinc on hospital admission, effected the outcome when admitted with Covid- 19. But before you reach for the Zinc supplements, this is one mineral where less is more. Zinc absorption is higher at lower dosages. Zinc also has many nutrient interactions, Iron, calcium and phosphorus all decreases its absorption levels. Zinc is in many protein rich foods and absorption rates are higher from animal sources than plant sources, those on plant based diets will need to consume a higher amount of zinc to ensure required amount is absorbed. Phytates, which are commonly found in plant foods, reduce zinc absorption, and some researchers have suggested that this increases the zinc needs of vegetarians by up to 50%. Foods high in Zinc include 1/2 a cup of baked beans will provide 26% of daily requirement, Chicken Thigh – 22%, 25g pumpkin seeds – 20%, 1/2 cup chickpeas – 12%. If you wish to look into supplements please contact Susan who can provide some recommendations.