Zinc Deficiency

Overview

Zinc is a vital mineral with numerous critical functions in the body. Deficiency of zinc can not only impair immunity but also hamper growth in individuals. Therefore it is important to maintain adequate zinc levels through diet or supplements. Doctors test an individual's blood and urine to check if they lack this mineral in their body.

What is Zinc Deficiency?

As the name suggests, zinc deficiency is caused when the body does not have enough of this mineral for the body's essential functions. Often described as a "superhero" nutrient, zinc plays a key role in supporting the immune system, facilitating wound healing, and aiding in blood clotting. It is crucial for synthesizing DNA, which guides bodily functions and maintains proper thyroid function, essential for regulating energy levels. Zinc also supports sensory health by ensuring accurate taste and smell. This mineral is not only important for adults but also vital for children, aiding in healthy growth and development from pregnancy through adolescence.

Symptoms of Zinc Deficiency

When you don't have enough zinc, your skin can start changing, like what happens during eczema. It might get all cracked, and the skin might look smooth and shiny. This happens a lot around the mouth, diaper area, and hands. Even if you use creams or lotions, the rash doesn't want to go away.
People with zinc deficiency might also have other problems. Their hair might start falling out, their skin and hair can change, and their eyes might not feel so good. They might get sick more often, and when they get hurt, it takes a long time for the wounds to heal. For little ones with zinc deficiency, it can be like slowing down their growth. They might not grow as fast, and puberty, which is when their bodies start changing, might take a bit longer to happen.

Causes of Zinc Deficiency

Zinc deficiency poses significant health risks, especially during pregnancy and early childhood. Adequate zinc is essential for proper fetal development, as it supports cell growth and the formation of vital structures. If a pregnant woman has insufficient zinc, it can hinder her baby's development, impacting growth and health.

For prospective fathers, zinc deficiency can also create challenges, potentially leading to fertility issues such as impotence.

Certain populations are more vulnerable to zinc deficiency. Infants who are exclusively breastfed beyond six months may not receive enough zinc, as breast milk alone does not provide sufficient amounts. Older adults and individuals who consume excessive alcohol are also at higher risk, as alcohol impairs zinc absorption. Additionally, premature infants or those born to mothers with zinc deficiencies may start life with inadequate zinc levels. This can lead to developmental issues and other health concerns.

Zinc is primarily obtained through diet, but some individuals may have difficulty absorbing it due to gastrointestinal issues or interactions with certain medications. Those following a plant-based diet that excludes animal products might also be at higher risk for deficiency.

When should you call your doctor?
Well, if you're pregnant or breastfeeding and think you need more zinc, don't wait – get in touch with your doctor right away. Zinc is like the builder for healthy development for little ones growing in the belly. Also, if you have a zinc shortage and get a bout of diarrhoea that sticks around, call your doctor. Zinc is like a defender for your intestines, and without it, an infection might get more serious.
Lastly, if you ever feel dizzy, nauseous, have a constant headache, or pass out, it's essential to call your healthcare provider. A zinc deficiency is usually not an emergency, but keeping yourself healthy is always super important.

Tests and Treatments of Zinc Deficiency

Zinc is like a special helper mineral in your body and finding out if you need more of it is not as easy as a regular blood test. It's scattered in tiny amounts inside your cells, which makes it tricky to know if there's not enough.

When your doctor thinks you might need more zinc, they do a special blood test by checking your blood plasma. Other ways to check include testing your urine or looking at a strand of your hair to see how much zinc is there.
Sometimes, not having enough zinc could be a sign that something else is going on in your body. Certain conditions can make your body use zinc but not take it in properly. And guess what? If you're short on zinc, it might also bring along a friend called copper deficiency. Your doctor knows about these possibilities and might need to do extra tests to find out why you're low on zinc.

Prevention of Zinc Deficiency

Eating foods like red meat, poultry, seeds, wheat germ, wild rice, and oysters can give your body more zinc. But if you don't eat meat, don't worry – baked beans, cashews, peas, and almonds can also be good sources of zinc.
If you want to fix your zinc levels quickly, you can take supplements. They might be in multivitamins or just zinc-only supplements. But be careful because zinc can sometimes cause trouble with certain medicines. Always check with your doctor before taking any supplements, especially if you're on antibiotics, arthritis meds, or diuretics.