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Page 2 of 2 Deficiency of zinc Zinc deficiency most often occurs when intake of zinc is inadequate or there is poor absorption by the body, or when there is increased excretion of zinc from the body, or when the body's requirement for zinc increases. Zinc is excreted through the faeces, urine, hair, skin, sweat, semen and during menstruation. Liver and pancreatic disorders, chronic alcoholism, diabetes mellitus, and absorption disorders lead to zinc deficiency. Men should always make sure of sufficient quantity of zinc in their diets, since the health of their prostate gland is linked to zinc. Zinc is needed to manufacture testosterone and a shortage may induce a low sperm count, loss of libido. Signs of zinc deficiency Symptoms of zinc deficiency include hair loss, skin eruptions, diarrohea, degradation of body tissues, and eventually death. Since a person’s vision, taste, smell and memory are all connected with proper levels of zinc in the body, a deficiency in zinc causes faulty working of these organs. Deficiency of zinc may lead to poor night vision, falling hair, white spots under fingernails, skin problems, sleep disturbances, reduced wound-healing, decreased appetite, a decrease in the sense of taste and smell, a reduced ability to fight infections, and poor development of reproductive organs. Zinc deficiency can also lead to immune system dysfunction and stunted growth, impaired male fertility along with hormonal disbalance. Women may experience irregular menstrual periods, while males may have slow sexual maturity. Zinc deficiency is common in people infected with the HIV virus or suffering from AIDS. Zinc levels are also low in people with diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes. People with anorexia and bulimia are often deficient in zinc. Children with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) tend to have lower blood zinc levels. Dosage Normal intake of zinc of approximately 12-15 mg per day, is adequate to prevent deficiencies. Males require higher amounts of zinc as compared to females. However, normal daily-recommended intakes are different for different individuals. - Adult and teenage males: 9 to 12 mg per day
- Adult and teenage females: 9 mg per day
- Pregnant females: 15 mg per day
- Lactating mothers: 15 mg per day
About the Author: Candy Willims endorses http://www.healthvitaminsguide.com for information on zinc.
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