Enzymes, DNA/protein, growth, immunity, wound healing, smell and taste.
Switzerland: depends on phytate intake; women about 7.5–12.7 mg/day, men 9.4–16.3 mg/day.
Oysters, meat, cheese, pumpkin/hemp seeds, legumes and whole grains; soaking/fermenting improves plant availability.
Poor appetite, infection susceptibility, delayed wound healing, loss of smell/taste and, when severe, impaired growth.
True deficiency can affect skin and hair; nonspecific hair loss alone does not prove it.
Hair loss, dermatitis and poor wound healing are possible but diagnostically nonspecific.
Malabsorption, chronic diarrhoea, alcohol dependence, bariatric surgery and poorly planned high-phytate diets.
Diet, risk factors and symptoms; serum zinc fluctuates and requires cautious interpretation.
Use in a targeted, time-limited way; consider copper with longer-term use.
Excess zinc causes nausea and can lead to copper deficiency, anaemia and neurological problems.