Low intake of zinc: 6 signs that indicates you need to increase your zinc intake
Signs of zinc deficiency
Our body requires different kinds of minerals and vitamins in certain amounts to keep the internal function going. When any nutrient is not made available to it in the required quantity, it leads to disturbance in the overall functioning and the signs can be visible in different parts of our body. Zinc is one of the minerals required by our body to activate over 300 enzymes that work to build immunity, cell division, cell growth and proteins and DNA synthesis. Found in a limited quantity in foods we eat, our body cannot store this nutrient. That means it needs to be consumed regularly. Men above 14 years must consume 11 mg of zinc daily, while women above 14 need 8 mg. For pregnant women, the recommended daily intake of zinc is 11 mg and for breastfeeding women, it is 12 mg. Here are some signs that you need to increase your zinc intake.
Slow wound healing
One of the crucial roles of zinc is to keep your skin healthy and promote proper blood clotting. But when you do not take zinc in a sufficient amount it makes it difficult for your wound to heal. Acne outburst is also caused by zinc deficiency. The supplement is prescribed to heal stubborn wounds.
Weight loss
Low zinc intake can also lead to a change in appetite leading to weight loss. It is good to shed kilos when you are overweight, but losing too much weight also invites other health issues. Even when trying to shed kilos, you need to have all kinds of micronutrients to keep your internal function working. Weight loss caused by nutrient deficiency is unhealthy.
Hair loss
Stress, poor scalp hygiene and insufficient intake of healthy nutrients all can lead to hair loss. Hair breakage, hair fall and hair thinning can be a result of zinc deficiency. Increasing the intake of this nutrient can help to prevent hair loss and improve the quality of hair. So, if you are facing hair issues lately, first increase your zinc intake.
Cold
Zinc is an essential nutrient that helps to build immunity and cut down the risk of chronic disease. Low zinc intake can make you more prone to infections and illness. If you feel colder than other people and fall ill often, then it can be a sign of zinc deficiency. Increasing the intake of zinc can also help to recover from cold faster than normal.
Blurry vision
The trace mineral is also required for healthy vision. When our body does not get a sufficient amount of zinc regularly, it alters our vision. It results in blurry vision, squinting and low vision. A sufficient intake of zinc keeps your vision in check. Zinc and Vitamin A are two nutrients required for a healthy vision.
Brain fog
Do you feel confused or find it hard to concentrate on your work often? If yes, check your daily zinc intake level. Food low in zinc can lead to brain fog, making it difficult to focus on the task at hand. It can also be responsible for memory problems.