7 Clinical Signs of Zinc Deficiency

The Importance Of Zinc In Our Daily Diet

Zinc is an essential mineral that is involved in many bodily functions. It is required for the activity of over 200 enzymes, plays a vital role in immune function,  wound healing, cell division, protein and DNA synthesis. Zinc also supports healthy growth and development during pregnancy, childhood and adolescence.

Sadly, 85% of Australian women and 67% of men are deficient in Zinc. This is due to many factors including;

Unfortunately maintaining adequate zinc levels can prove difficult, as there are no specialised zinc storage systems within the body. As such, It must be replenished daily from the diet.

Clinical Signs Of Zinc Deficiency:

1. White Spots on the Fingernails – White spots on the nails are a classic sign of zinc deficiency. Supplementing with zinc has shown to inhibit the formation of new white spots from appearing and increase blood zinc levels.

2. Poor Immune Function – Zinc is the commander and chief of the immune system and is essential for healthy immune cell function.  A deficiency in Zinc can be an underlying cause of frequent colds, flu and infections. Zinc also helps to inhibit the excessive release of histamine from mast cells, which results in the symptoms of an allergic reaction. Zinc deficiency is likely to increase histamine production and result in allergies.

3. Poor Taste and Smell – Researchers have confirmed that people with zinc deficiency have a reduced sensation of taste and smell. Studies have found that zinc supplementation improves the body's taste and smell abilities.

4. Mood and Neurological Disturbances – Zinc plays an integral part in modulating the brain's response to stress. In fact, the highest levels of zinc in the body, is found in a part of the brain called the hippocampus, which regulates emotion, motivation, memory and learning. Zinc is also a cofactor for the manufacture of the neurotransmitters serotonin, GABA and dopamine. Deficiencies in these neurotransmitters can lead to anxiety, depression, insomnia, mood imbalances, poor focus, and memory. Zinc also helps protect our neurological system by improving BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), which helps maintain long-term memory by supporting the survival and growth of new brain neurons. It is no wonder why zinc is essential for proper mental, brain and nervous system function. 

5. Gastrointestinal problems – Studies have shown that zinc supplementation helps strengthen the intestinal lining and protect against Leaky Gut Syndrome and helps heal the intestinal cells. Most gastrointestinal conditions including Chron's disease, Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Ulcerative Colitis benefit from zinc supplementation and often require higher levels because the intestinal absorption of zinc may be affected.

6. Skin complaints – It's common knowledge that zinc is good for the skin and is vital for wound healing. Low zinc levels might present with delayed wound healing or the appearance of stretch marks. More severe zinc deficiency may cause atopic dermatitis and a cracked, fissured appearance of the skin.

7. Thinning and greying hair – Alopecia or baldness is a well-known sign of zinc deficiency with hair growth occurring with zinc supplementation. Zinc is an essential cofactor needed for healthy thyroid function. Low zinc levels can lead to reduced thyroid health and can result in hair thinning and even alopecia.

Foods High In Zinc

Thankfully Zinc is found in many foods such as; meats, seafood, nuts and seeds. To receive your free copy of our 'List Of Foods High In Zinc' simply fill in your details below. 

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The information provided in this blog' 7 Clinical Signs of Zinc Deficiency' is general and intended for educational purposes only. We make no claims to diagnose, treat, prevent, alleviate or cure illnesses or diseases with any information or product stated. With any health issue, we suggest you consult your healthcare professional before undertaking any health treatment.

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