Zinc Deficiency Symptoms: Dermatological Problems, Low Immunity, Growth Disorders, Cognitive Dysfunction, and Reduced Olfactory Acuity

Zinc is an essential mineral for health, and its lack can have unpleasant consequences on the body. By going through this article, you will discover the symptoms that may indicate a zinc deficiency, understand the importance of zinc in maintaining health, and identify the signs that indicate a possible deficiency.

1. Dermatological problems

Zinc deficiency can lead to various dermatological problems, including acne and rashes, dermatitis, hard-to-heal lesions and sores, and alopecia. A zinc deficiency can lead to an over-accumulation of free radicals, inflammation and damage to the skin barrier.

Zinc can be effective in the treatment of acne because it helps reduce inflammation and excessive sebum production. Zinc may also be useful in treating dermatitis due to its role in maintaining the integrity of the skin barrier and reducing inflammation. Zinc deficiency can also affect the healing process of wounds and skin lesions, due to the fact that this mineral is involved in the synthesis of collagen and the growth of skin cells. Zinc supplementation can speed up the wound healing process and reduce inflammation
[1]. In addition, low zinc can also contribute to alopecia, or hair loss, due to its role in protein metabolism and maintaining the health of hair follicles. Zinc supplementation can improve scalp health and reduce hair loss.

2. Low immunity

The role of zinc in the functioning of the immune system is crucial. Zinc is required for the proper development and function of immune system cells, including T and B cells, and the production of antibodies. Studies show that zinc deficiency can lead to poor functioning of the immune system, increasing the risk of infections.

Zinc deficiency is associated with increased vulnerability to bacterial, viral and parasitic infections, including colds, flu and respiratory problems. For example, children with zinc deficiencies are at increased risk of pneumonia and diarrhea. Research also suggests that zinc supplementation may help reduce the severity and duration of the common cold and other respiratory infections. Zinc regulates the body’s inflammatory response by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and promoting the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines. This may be important in preventing chronic inflammation and diseases associated with it, such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer.

Food sources rich in zinc include meat, seafood, legumes and nuts, but zinc deficiency is still a common problem in many countries
[3].

3. Disorders of growth and development

Growth and development disorders can be caused by several factors, including zinc deficiency. This mineral plays an essential role in the process of cell division, protein synthesis and bone formation, having a significant impact on the growth and development of children.

According to a study published in the “American Journal of Clinical Nutrition”, zinc deficiency can cause delays in height growth and skeletal maturation in children. This can lead to long-term health problems such as rickets and osteoporosis. In addition to bone development, zinc is also essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system and muscles. Zinc deficiency can lead to muscle hypotonia (muscle weakness), coordination disorders and reduced reflexes, thus affecting children’s motor development.

Zinc also plays an important role in the regulation of sex hormones, such as testosterone and estrogen, which are essential for sexual development and maturation. Zinc deficiency can lead to delays in the appearance of secondary sexual characteristics and puberty [4].

4. Cognitive and memory dysfunctions

The role of zinc in maintaining cognitive and memory functions is essential and should not be underestimated. Zinc is an essential mineral for the synthesis of neurotransmitters and for the normal functioning of the brain, influencing learning and memory processes. In fact, it is estimated that up to 20% of the population is zinc deficient, which can lead to health problems including cognitive and memory dysfunction.

The impact of zinc deficiency on memory can be significant. Zinc deficiency can lead to problems concentrating and difficulty retaining information, affecting both short-term and long-term memory. This was confirmed in a study of elderly subjects, who demonstrated a significant improvement in cognitive function and memory after zinc supplementation.

Adequate zinc intake can help maintain brain health as we age, preventing disorders such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. In a study of elderly subjects, it was shown that those who consume zinc regularly have a lower risk of developing cognitive impairment. Zinc supplementation can also help improve mood and reduce stress, which can have a positive impact on cognitive function and memory [5].

5. Reduction of olfactory acuity

Reduced olfactory acuity is one of the symptoms of zinc deficiency. Zinc plays an important role in the functioning of the olfactory receptors, and zinc deficiency can lead to a decreased ability to detect and differentiate odors. The mechanism by which zinc influences olfaction is not fully understood, but zinc is thought to help regulate neuronal activity and protect against oxidative stress.

Risk factors that can lead to zinc deficiency and, by implication, reduced olfactory acuity include advanced age, certain medical conditions such as diabetes or intestinal tract conditions, and a lifestyle that involves excessive alcohol consumption or smoking.

To prevent and treat reduced olfactory acuity caused by zinc deficiency, it is important to eat a healthy, balanced diet that includes foods rich in zinc, such as red meat, chicken, fish, seeds and nuts. In addition, zinc supplementation may be helpful for people with zinc deficiency, but it is important to consult a doctor before taking any supplement [3].

Knowing the warning signs can help you identify and address zinc deficiency in a timely manner to maintain your health and quality of life. Talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have and ask for their opinion on the appropriateness of zinc supplements.

Bibliography:

1. “Are You Getting Enough Zinc?” Cleveland Clinic,
30 Jan. 2023, health.clevelandclinic.org/zinc/, accesat la 19.05.2023;

2. Australia, Healthdirect. “Zinc and Your Health.” Www.healthdirect.gov.au,
30 Apr. 2021, www.healthdirect.gov.au/zinc#:~:text=Zinc%20is%20a%20mineral%20thataccessed on 19.05.2023;

3. Kubala, Jillian. “Zinc: Benefits, Deficiency, Food Sources
and Side Effects.” Healthline, 14 Nov. 2018, www.healthline.com/nutrition/zincaccessed on 19.05.2023;

4. Mayo Clinic. “Zinc.” Mayo Clinic, 2017, www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-zinc/art-20366112accessed on 19.05.2023;

5. “Zinc: Benefits, Intake, Sources, Deficiency, and Side
Effects.” Www.medicalnewstoday.com, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/263176accessed on 19.05.2023.