Naturopathy & Nutrition

Are you zinc (Zn)deficient?

zinc

75% of the Australian population are zinc deficient!

Would you like to know what your Zn levels are?

We can test your levels at Life Synergy with a simple ten second taste test.

Zinc is one of the most important minerals is a cofactor for approximately 300 enzymes in the body. Knowing your zinc levels is highly beneficial for your health.

Zinc is an essential nutrient, meaning that it is not organically manufactured within the body and therefore needs to be consumed in the form of food or supplement. The recommended daily intake of Zn is between 10-30mg per day. This may increase in certain health conditions and diets.

The highest amounts of Zn are found in red meat and shellfish. So Vegans and Vegetarians need to be aware of maintaining their zinc levels. Another issue most vegetarians consume a lot of whole grains and plant proteins which are high in phytic acids. These acids can interfere with Zn absorption therefore Vegan or Vegetarians may require up to 50% more Zn.

Other Zinc deficiencies signs & symptoms –

Stress, anxiety – cortisol imbalances

Skin disorders like acne, eczema, hives, rashes

Poor wound healing

Low immunity

Inflammation

Infertility & Pregnancy

Low libido

Poor sperm production

Loss of Taste & Smell

Important for hair, skin and nails

Impaired growth & sexual development

Hyperactivity

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Vision Degeneration

Iron non-responsive anemia

Eating disorders

Impaired vision

Blood clotting

Also especially in children if they are eating dirt is called Pica

Typically, assessing Zn status effectively can be difficult, as most of the body’s zinc stores are in the bones. Hair analysis or blood serum all require costly and timely laboratory work.

Our clinic can test your Zn levels today for any age including children plus provide you with immediate accurate results.

Liquid Zinc Taste Test — Assessing for Zinc Deficiency

Place 10 mL of liquid zinc in your mouth.

Hold the liquid zinc in your mouth for ten

Now note how the liquid zinc tastes in your mouth.

Good Level — If the Zn tastes bad, has a metallic or furry taste

Adequate Level — if there is a strong taste that is not unpleasant and a little metallic with perhaps an intensification as time passes, then you have adequate levels

Poor Level —Little taste at first but after 10 seconds you have a slight taste developing

Extremely Low Level — If you have no taste sensation at all — the liquid tastes like water will indicate you have an extremely low level of Zn.

For Zn testing and other nutritional testing to help you achieve optimal health please contact us www.lifesynergy.com.au

Written by Bianca Richardson, Naturopath

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