Zinc is very important for the human body. It supports many cell functions and helps approximately 300 enzymes that enable chemical reactions to take place to perform their duties. Although different scientific studies have been conducted on the benefits of zinc, according to the Turkish Food Codex Nutrition and Health Claims Regulation, when supplementary foods containing 10 mg Zinc are used, for healthy individuals aged 4 and over;
- It contributes to acid-base, carbohydrate, sugar nutrients, fatty acids, vitamin A metabolism,
- protection of bones, hair, nails, skin,
- normal function of the immune system,
- protein and DNA synthesis,
- cell division (1).
In different sources, it is stated that this beneficial mineral plays a major role in situations such as increasing immune function, helping cells divide, protecting the sense of smell and taste, and healing wounds (1, 2, 3, 4). Zinc also plays a key role in a person's growth and development and supports it. For this reason, we can say that it is an important structure for pregnant women and growing children. On the other hand, the human body does not store this mineral. This shows how important it is to meet the need regularly with foods or supplements to prevent a deficiency.
We need various vitamins and minerals for the body to function at its best. Although the body does not need a large amount of zinc, it is possible for a person to experience zinc deficiency in certain situations such as malnutrition. Long-term deficiency can cause chronic diseases, and meeting this need from foods and supplements can be the solution to this situation (2, 3, 4, 5). In this article, we will try to answer some questions about "Zinc deficiency". Enjoy reading.
What Happens in Zinc Deficiency?
Zinc is found in very small amounts among the cells in our body, which makes it difficult to detect its deficiency with any blood test.
In cases where the body's needs are not met with a balanced diet, zinc deficiency can manifest itself severely and changes on the skin surface such as eczema and cracks around the mouth and hands are commonly seen (6, 7).
Sometimes its deficiency can also be the creator of another condition. For example, in cases where zinc can be processed in our body but is not well absorbed, zinc deficiency can lead to copper deficiency
What are the Symptoms of Zinc Deficiency?
According to research, approximately 1.1 billion people have a zinc deficiency problem, but it is thought that most people are not even aware of this situation. In the case of zinc deficiency, the body cannot produce enough new cells. The biggest reasons for this situation are; not consuming enough food, losing too much zinc from the body, and not meeting needs due to chronic diseases (8).
The symptoms that occur in the deficiency of this mineral, which is very important for the body, can sometimes be quite difficult to understand when they are not very visible. If you see some of the disorders listed below that may affect you in your daily life, it will be useful to consult a doctor to protect your health. Common zinc deficiency symptoms are:
- Hair loss
- Diarrhea
- Nerves
- Loss of appetite
- Impotence
- Weight loss
- Eye problems
- Loss of taste and smell
- Delayed healing of wounds
- Cracking around the mouth and hands
- Changes in the skin surface
Although not all of these symptoms are seen in every individual, almost all of these conditions can be an indicator of zinc deficiency. In addition, since most of these symptoms can also be seen in other vitamin and mineral deficiencies, understanding zinc deficiency through a test may be the clearest solution (3, 4, 9).
How to Eliminate Zinc Deficiency?
The need can be met with a healthy diet or food supplements. Zinc as a supplement is usually produced and marketed in the form of a pill or capsule. In addition, all or part of the body's needs can be obtained from some multi-vitamin supplements or cold medicines containing zinc. In this case, it is very important to adjust the correct dose according to the symptoms under the supervision of a doctor. In case of incorrect use, excess zinc can cause diarrhea or vomiting, and can negatively affect other nutrients you need in your body, such as copper and iron. On the other hand, individuals who say they do not want to use any supplements can consume foods with high zinc content.
What is Good for Zinc Deficiency?
Foods with high values in zinc are as follows;
- Red meat
- Poultry
- Fish products
- Rice
- Wheat (10)
Generally, grains, legumes and dairy products also contain zinc. For most people, the best way to prevent zinc deficiency is to consume foods high in zinc. However, it is also possible to meet your daily needs with supplements (3, 4, 8, 10).
Zinc Prices at Bikalite
It may be difficult to find good and affordable zinc supplement brands, and consuming unconscious and unqualified products can harm your health. For this reason, the safety of the supplements used is a very important issue. At Bikalite, the documents belonging to the products and manufacturers are meticulously examined, and only products that comply with our quality criteria and are original are offered to you. If the zinc and other supplements in Bikalite are used correctly, they will meet the daily needs of you and your loved ones and help you be healthier. You can shop from Bikalite with peace of mind.
References:
- Türk Gıda Kodeksi Beslenme ve Sağlık Beyanları Yönetmeliği
- Zinc
- Zinc Deficiency
- Zinc deficiency and taste disorders
- Zinc: an overview
- Zinc deficiency: its characterization and treatment
- Images in clinical medicine. Acquired acrodermatitis enteropathica
- All you need to know about zinc deficiency
- Dietary calcium and zinc deficiency risks are decreasing but remain prevalent
- An Overview of Zinc Deficiency