Zinc Deficiency

by Aimee Amodio | More from this Blogger

17 Jun 2008 06:52 PM

When the body isn't taking in enough zinc -- or zinc isn't being absorbed in the right amounts -- it is possible to develop a zinc deficiency.

What are the signs of zinc deficiency?

• Growth retardation including delayed sexual maturity
• Hair loss
• Loss of appetite, diarrhea, weight loss, and other gastrointestinal issues.
• Skin and eye lesions
• Delayed wound healing
• Problems with smell and taste
• Mental lethargy

Some people are at higher risk of a zinc deficiency than others, including:

• Vegetarians. The body tends to absorb less zinc from plant foods than from animal sources. If you are following a vegetarian or vegan diet, you may need as much as fifty percent more zinc than a person on an omnivorous diet.
• Alcoholics. Between thirty and fifty percent of alcoholics may suffer from zinc deficiency. Why? Because alcohol can decrease the absorption of zinc in the body AND increase the loss of zinc through urine.
• Persons with digestive disorders like Crohn's disease and celiac sprue. Individuals who experience frequent or chronic diarrhea may be losing large quantities of zinc. Individuals who have had gastrointestinal surgery to remove part of the bowel may also be at risk for zinc deficiency.

There is no one test that can adequately measure whether or not your body is getting enough zinc. Your health care professional will take a look at risk factors and symptoms in order to decide whether or not you need a supplement.

Zinc toxicity -- too much zinc in your system -- is a possibility. An intake of 150 milligrams and more of zinc daily can lead to reduced immune system function, reduced levels of good cholesterol, gastrointestinal side effects, and changes in copper and iron function. Most adults should keep zinc intake below forty milligrams per day. Children between the ages of 9 and 13 should stay below twenty-three milligrams per day; children between the ages of 14 and 18 should stay below thirty-four milligrams per day.

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