Zinc formulations have been used in Egypt since ancient times to speed wound healing. Modern science proves that the Egyptians were on to something. Zinc is a mineral that is essential for the functioning of hundreds of enzymes, which are substances that promote biochemical reactions in the body. Zinc is also necessary for a healthy immune system. Zinc is particularly valuable in healing wounds, like for burn victims or patients who have had surgery. The mineral is involved in facilitating strong sensory perception, especially in taste and smell. Zinc is necessary for normal growth and development during pregnancy, infancy, childhood and adolescence. Zinc is also linked to testosterone production in men, which can increase sexual stimulation and satisfaction! Now that we know what zinc does, let's look at where it comes from. Zinc is secreted by at least 11 organs in the body, including the pancreas, the salivary glands and the prostate gland. The average adult female needs 8 milligrams of zinc a day. Adult males and pregnant or lactating women need 11 milligrams. A. While the body makes much of the zinc it needs, some foods, like oysters, provide additional sources of the mineral. B. Beef, pork, dark chicken meat and beans are also sources of zinc. Zinc is absorbed much better from animal-proteins than from plants, so vegetarians may need to ingest up to 50 percent more zinc than their meat-eating counterparts. A. People with gastrointestinal disorders, B. people who drink excess alcohol or C. those with chronic diarrhea may have trouble absorbing enough zinc, and can benefit from supplements. Too much of this mineral can result in zinc toxicity. 150 and 450 milligrams can reduce levels of HDL, the "good cholesterol," and can lower immune function. Zinc is essential for enzyme functioning and for a healthy immune system, but too much can be harmful. Always talk to your doctor before beginning a supplement program or new diet.