Are You Suffering From Zinc Deficiency?

Since it was discovered in the 1960s that humans can be deficient in zinc, it has been realised that the deficiency is extremely widespread worldwide.

An essential mineral required for proper immune function, zinc deficiency has been linked to:

• Defective connective tissue
• Macular degeneration
• Collagen reduction
• Delayed skeletal maturation
• Growth retardation
• Lack of sexual development in females
• Mental retardation
• Impaired nerve cunduction and nerve damage
• Impaired taste and smell
• Impaired wound healing
• Anorexia
• Lethargy
• Diarrhoea

Zinc deficiency can also be caused by trauma, burns and protein losing health problems. It is also common in the over 50s.

One paper in The Journal of the American College of Nutrition 543 concluded that low consumption of zinc in India was associated with the prevalance of coronary artery disease and diabetes - both widespread problems in both America and England.

While zinc deficiency is common, its diagnosis is difficult. Many chronic disorders present the same symptoms as zinc deficiency, leading to misdiagnoses or incomplete diagnoses.

Zinc deficiency can, however, easily be avoided with responsible supplementation. While it is possible to obtain some zinc from eating a diet containing red meat, beans, nuts, whole grains and dairy products, these don't provide the level necessary to avoid deficiency.

I recommend that all of my clients use a multivitamin supplement that provides the correct balance of all natural vitamins, pre-digested minerals (including zinc) and phytochemicals. This three-way synergy offers your body the highest quality nutrients in easily absorbable, balanced quantities.

For an impartial review of any multivitamin product you currently use, and advice on how you can avoid zinc deficiency, contact me at katiektk@hotmail.co.uk