Did you know that a healthy amount of zinc in your diet has been linked to an improved immune system and faster wound healing? Some studies have linked proper zinc intake to reduced severity and duration of the common cold, improved thyroid function, more effective blood clotting, and even decreased effects of age-related macular degeneration. A June 2015 study in the Journal of Biological Chemistry found that zinc may also play an important role in regulating heartbeat — a potential advancement in the fight against arrhythmia-related heart failure.