Natural mineral helps prevent colds Published Nov. 28, 2011 By Shari Lopatin TriWest Healthcare Alliance MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- Feel yourself developing the sniffles? Better take some zinc. Zinc is an element in the earth's crust--one of the most common, in fact. And while too much zinc is dangerous, the human body needs zinc for certain functions. One of the most important is to keep your immune system strong, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. By boosting your intake of zinc, you could help ward off colds. Just make sure you're getting your recommended intake of zinc. Remember, too much could prove harmful to your body. Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) for Zinc Age Male Female If you're pregnant If you're breastfeeding 0-6 months 2 mg 2 mg 7-12 months 3 mg 3 mg 1-3 years 3 mg 3 mg 4-8 years 5 mg 5 mg 9-13 years 8 mg 8 mg 14-18 years 11 mg 9 mg 12 mg 13 mg 19+ years 11 mg 8 mg 11 mg 12 mg * Source: National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements Which foods contain zinc? Try eating some of these foods listed from the National Institutes of Health, which are naturally high in zinc: · Oysters or crab · Baked beans, canned · Raisin bran cereal · Cashews · Lowfat yogurt and fruit · Chicken leg · Red meats, such as beef or pork For more information on healthy eating, visit TriWest.com/eathealthy.