Final answer:
The plate food groups provides a good source of zinc is "4) Protein Foods". Protein foods provide a good source of zinc.
Step-by-step explanation:
Zinc is commonly found in protein-rich foods, making option 4, "Protein Foods," the correct answer. Foods within the protein group, such as meat, poultry, fish, beans, and nuts, are known to be good sources of zinc.
Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in various physiological processes, including immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. While zinc can be found in other food groups to some extent, it is often more abundant in protein-rich sources.
For example, red meat, poultry, and seafood, particularly oysters, are among the best sources of dietary zinc. Plant-based sources like beans and nuts also contain zinc, but the bioavailability of zinc from plant foods may be lower due to the presence of compounds that can inhibit absorption.
Incorporating a variety of protein foods into the diet ensures an adequate intake of zinc and supports overall nutritional health. While fruits, grains, vegetables, and dairy contribute essential nutrients, they are not as prominent in providing zinc as the protein foods group.