Although your body may require small amounts of zinc, a deficiency in this important mineral can affect many important functions and cause worrying symptoms. Zinc helps cells grow, heals the body, and supports a strong immune system. Meat, poultry, seafood, legumes, and whole grains are all good sources of zinc. If you are deficient in zinc, we also recommend taking zinc supplements. Zinc deficiency can affect the health of your hair and skin, as well as your sense of taste and smell. It can also manifest as non-healing wounds, mood swings, and memory problems. Zinc requirements can increase during periods of rapid growth, such as childhood, adolescence, and pregnancy. (See photo: Trace minerals for healthy hormones: experts share tips)
A deficiency in zinc can interfere with body function, but too much zinc can cause toxicity, causing symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. This is why zinc supplements should only be taken on the advice of a doctor.
In an interview with HT Digital, Dr. Rahul Agrawal, Consultant General Medical Consultant, Hitech City Hyderabad, spoke about the main signs of zinc deficiency that should never be ignored.
Signs of zinc deficiency
1. Hair removal: Have you been losing too much hair lately? You may be deficient in zinc. Zinc deficiency, an important mineral for hair growth and maintenance, can lead to hair loss and thinning.
2. Eye problems: Zinc is very important for maintaining eye health. Deficiency can cause vision problems, night blindness, or difficulty adjusting to low-light conditions.
3. Loss of taste and smell: In addition to the coronavirus, zinc deficiency can also lead to loss of taste and smell. Zinc is essential for the proper functioning of taste and smell receptors. Zinc deficiency can cause a loss of taste and smell.
4. Wound healing disorders: Zinc plays an important role in the healing process, and a deficiency can slow wound healing and increase the risk of infection.
5. Skin problems: You don't always have to blame your skin problems on extreme winters or scorching summers. The appearance of your skin also depends on your intake of important nutrients. Zinc deficiency can cause a variety of skin problems, including dry skin, dermatitis, and other skin conditions.
6. Frequent infections: Zinc is necessary for a healthy immune system. A zinc deficiency can make you more susceptible to infections and diseases.
7. Poor growth: Zinc is an important mineral for the growth of cells in the body. In children, zinc deficiency can cause growth and developmental problems.
8. Digestive system problems: Zinc is involved in the production of stomach acid and digestive enzymes. Deficiency can cause digestive problems such as diarrhea and malabsorption.
9. Hypogonadism: For men, zinc deficiency can lead to decreased testosterone levels and related symptoms such as decreased libido and fertility problems.
10. Neurological symptoms: Severe zinc deficiency can affect the nervous system and cause symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, mood swings, and memory problems.
If a zinc deficiency is suspected, your doctor may recommend blood tests to measure zinc levels and make appropriate recommendations for supplements or dietary changes.
