When we eat a balanced diet we get the vitamins and minerals we need. If you're like me, that doesn't always happen so sometimes it's necessary to take vitamins and supplements to make up for the shortfall. A good multivitamin should always include zinc. There are over 200 enzymes produced in the body that rely on zinc and not getting enough means possible disruption of some vital bodily processes.

Why worry about zinc? Zinc is an important part of your diet, as it plays a role in hundreds of processes in the human body. The most prominent functions include support of the immune system, joints, tissues, along with aiding in cell growth. Zinc supplements have also been proven to boost sexual function and help with the healing of wounds.

As with other vitamins, a balanced diet is where we should be getting our daily dose of zinc. Some foods like red meat and poultry are a good source as well as seafood, nuts and beans. If you like oysters, you're getting more zinc per serving than any other food.

Not enough zinc can cause a variety of problems. Ability to taste food and even your sense of scent can be affected by insufficient zinc. Zinc supplements have even been shown to counter macular degeneration and vision loss.

Although zinc is an essential vitamin for our bodies, too much of it can be a bad thing. There isn't an accepted laboratory test available yet that can tell you how much zinc you need but research has shown that taking more than 100 mg daily for an extended period can cause damage in the immune system. Other side effects can include nausea and stomach upset.

When taking zinc supplements be aware that zinc can interfere with the bodies absorption of copper. For this reason, experts recommend that they should be taken together. If you begin to take a zinc supplement it should be part of a well balanced diet.

While shopping for vitamins remember that many nutritional supplements in the United States are unregulated. To be sure that you're getting a quality product check the label for GMP compliance. Over 100 countries follow the standards of the Good Manufacturing Practice and this will ensure that your source of vitamins is of good quality.

There are many benefits to getting an adequate source of zinc in your daily diet. Treating wide ranging conditions such as diabetes, cold sores as well as managing hair loss can all be attributable to taking zinc. You can benefit from increased energy levels and resistance to disease as well. As with any new dietary program, check with your doctor to see what's right for you.