Zinc is an essential mineral required by our body for numerous functions such as cell growth, wound healing, and immune function. However, when our body does not get enough zinc, it leads to a deficiency that can cause health problems.

Zinc deficiency is common in developing countries where diets lack zinc-rich foods such as meat, shellfish, and legumes. However, vegetarians and vegans are also at risk of zinc deficiency, as plant-based diets do not contain enough zinc. Here are the symptoms you shouldn’t ignore if you suspect a zinc deficiency.

Hair and skin problems

One of the most common symptoms of zinc deficiency is hair loss and skin problems such as rashes, dry skin, and acne. Zinc helps maintain the integrity of the skin and hair follicles, and a deficiency can lead to thinning hair and impaired skin healing.

If you notice hair loss or skin problems that do not get better with treatment, it could be due to a lack of zinc in your diet.

Poor immunity

Zinc is essential for the proper functioning of the immune system, and a deficiency can compromise immunity, leading to frequent infections such as cold and flu.

Zinc deficiency can also delay wound healing and increase the risk of infections after surgery. If you frequently fall sick or have slow healing wounds, it could be due to a weak immune system resulting from zinc deficiency.

Loss of appetite and taste

Zinc plays a crucial role in the sense of taste and smell, and a deficiency can lead to a loss of appetite and taste. People with zinc deficiency may experience a metallic taste in their mouth and find it difficult to enjoy their favorite foods.

If you have lost your sense of taste or are not feeling hungry, it could be due to a lack of zinc in your diet.

Eye and vision problems

Zinc is vital for maintaining eye health and vision. Low levels of zinc can lead to night blindness or poor vision in dim light. Zinc deficiency can also cause cataracts and macular degeneration, which can lead to blindness if left untreated.

If you experience vision problems or eye issues, consult your doctor to check for zinc deficiency.

Impaired growth and development

Zinc plays a crucial role in growth and development, especially in children. A deficiency can lead to stunted growth, delay in puberty, and cognitive impairment.

Zinc is necessary for the production of growth hormones and DNA synthesis, and a lack of it can affect bone development and lead to brittle bones. If you notice delayed growth in your child, or experience slow bone healing after a fracture, it could be due to zinc deficiency.

Gastrointestinal distress

Zinc deficiency can lead to gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloating. Zinc is necessary for gut health and the absorption of nutrients, and a lack of it can lead to malabsorption and nutrient deficiencies.

If you experience frequent gastrointestinal distress or malabsorption problems, consult your doctor to check for zinc deficiency.

Behavioral and mood changes

Zinc is necessary for the production and regulation of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which affect mood and behavior. A deficiency can lead to mood swings, depression, apathy, and irritability.

Zinc deficiency can also affect cognitive function, leading to memory and attention problems. If you experience behavioral or mood changes that do not resolve with treatment, it could be due to zinc deficiency.

Reproductive problems

Zinc is vital for reproductive health in both men and women. Zinc is essential for sperm production and motility and vaginal health in women. A deficiency can lead to infertility, erectile dysfunction, and low libido.

If you or your partner experience reproductive problems, it could be due to a lack of zinc in your diet.

Increased susceptibility to COVID-19

Recent studies suggest that zinc deficiency can increase the risk of severe COVID-19 complications. Zinc is essential for immune function and has antiviral properties.

Low levels of zinc can compromise the immune response to viral infections such as COVID-19, leading to more severe symptoms. If you are at risk of COVID-19, make sure to check your zinc levels and include zinc-rich foods in your diet.

Conclusion

Zinc deficiency is a common but often ignored health problem that can lead to numerous health problems. The symptoms of zinc deficiency are varied and can affect different parts of the body.

If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your doctor to check for zinc deficiency. Including zinc-rich foods in your diet such as meat, shellfish, legumes, nuts, and seeds can help prevent zinc deficiency and its related health problems.