Zinc is an essential trace mineral that plays a critical rola in a huge number of biological functions. That includes regulating gene expression, supporting the immune system, maintaining eyes health as well as the sense of taste and smell, supporting normal growth, regulating protein synthesis, maintaining blood sugar levels, insuring proper cell division, helping the respiratory system and keeping a healthy GI tract funtionning. Several research studies have also reported its antioxidant capabilities. Vegetarians are prone to have lower levels of Zinc due to phytic acid binding with zinc and thus lowering its bioavailabity.