Who is at increased risk of zinc deficiency?

Pregnant and lactating women are at increased risk of zinc deficiency since the amount of zinc required by the body increases in these two conditions. People who follow a strict vegetarian diet also have a high chance of zinc deficiency.

What are the food sources of zinc for vegetarians?

Fruits such as avocados, blackberries, pomegranates, raspberries, guavas, cantaloupes, apricots, peaches, kiwis, and blueberries are a good source of zinc. Apart from this, baked beans, cashews, lentils, chickpeas, and kidney beans also contain zinc.

How much zinc is required by the body?

The daily requirement of zinc is 8 mg for women and 11 mg for men. Young infants require 2 mg/day. The need for zinc increases in pregnancy and lactation.

For how long do you take zinc supplements?

Zinc deficiency is usually resolved by taking the supplement for 6 months. The dose of zinc varies as per the condition (mild to severe deficiency) of the patient.

Zinc deficiency

Written By Dr. Subita AlaghBDS

Reviewed By Dr. Rajeev Sharma

MBA, MBBS

Last updated on: 28 Mar 2025 | 04:44 PM (IST)

Overview

Zinc is a micronutrient that plays an important role in various bodily functions such as reproduction, immune function, and wound repair. It is also necessary for the growth and development of fetus during pregnancy, childhood, and adolescence.

Zinc deficiency refers to the low levels of zinc (less than 0.66 to 1.10 mcg/ml) in the body. The deficiency of zinc can be congenital (present from birth) or acquired.

Zinc can not be synthesized by our body, so it has to be taken from outside sources. The recommended dietary allownace (RDA) of zinc varies from 3 mg/day in children to 8 mg/day and 11 mg/day in women and men respectively. However, it is higher in pregnant and lactating women.

Its deficiency can be easily reversed by consuming foods rich in zinc such as oysters, red meat, poultry, dairy products, legumes, beans, cashews, chia seeds, and pumpkin seeds. In case of severe deficiency, supplements may be prescribed by your doctor.

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