Figure %: Zinc Content of Selected Foods

Supplementation

Zinc supplementation has been used for pregnancy, immune function, sexual function, rheumatoid arthritis, acne, macular degeneration, and Wilson's disease. The dose of supplementary zinc used for these conditions is usually in the range of 30 to 60 mg.

Zinc is relatively nontoxic. However, excessive intakes (greater than 150 mg per day) could interfere with copper metabolism and cause a copper deficiency. Excessive intake has also been associated with impaired immune function.