What Does It Mean?
Zinc Deficiency occurs when the body does not have enough of the essential mineral zinc, which plays a critical role in immune function, wound healing, growth, and enzymatic reactions. Zinc is the second-most abundant trace mineral in the body and is vital for numerous physiological processes.
How Did We Get There?
Root Causes:
- Inadequate dietary intake (vegetarian/vegan diets, poor nutrition)
- Malabsorption disorders (IBD, celiac disease, leaky gut)
- Chronic stress and high inflammation levels
- Increased zinc demand (pregnancy, growth, illness)
- Excessive alcohol consumption leading to increased zinc excretion
- Chronic infections or heavy metal toxicity interfering with zinc metabolism
Signs & Symptoms:
- Impaired immune function (frequent infections, slow wound healing)
- Hair loss and brittle nails
- Skin conditions (acne, eczema, dermatitis)
- Loss of taste and smell
- Fatigue and poor concentration
- Gastrointestinal disturbances (diarrhea, poor digestion)
- Delayed growth in children
Diagnostic Criteria:
Patients with zinc deficiency typically exhibit low serum zinc levels and alterations in enzymatic activity.
Lab Test Findings
| Lab Test Name | Expected Change | Optimal Range |
| Zinc, Serum | Decreased | 99-130 ug/dL |
| Alkaline Phosphatase | Decreased | 45-100 IU/L |
How Do We Treat It?
Functional Medicine Approach:
Addressing zinc deficiency requires dietary correction, improved absorption, and targeted supplementation.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| Zinc | Highly absorbed zinc to support immune function, enzymatic activity, and tissue repair | 1 capsule with food, daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Dietary Modifications: Increase intake of zinc-rich foods (red meat, shellfish, pumpkin seeds, nuts, legumes)
- Gut Health Support: Address underlying malabsorption issues, reduce inflammation
- Reduce Zinc-Depleting Factors: Minimize alcohol, high-sugar diets, and excessive phytates (found in grains and legumes) to enhance absorption