15/02/2026
ZINC
Zinc is a vital mineral for our health and wellbeing, yet unfortunately 85% of Australian women and 50% of men are not getting enough zinc in their diet. This is due to many factors, including poor zinc levels in the soil and over processing of our food.
Signs of zinc deficiency
1. White spots on the fingernails – this is one of the most obvious signs.
2. Poor immune function – Zinc is essential for healthy immune cell function.
3. Issues with taste and smell – Researchers have confirmed that people with zinc deficiency have reduced sensation of taste and smell, and they’ve found that supplementation improves taste recognition and sensation.
4. Mood and neurological disturbances – Zinc plays an important part in modulating the brain’s response to stress, in fact, the highest levels of zinc in the body are found in the hippocampus. Zinc is a cofactor for neurotransmitter function and helps protect our neurology by improving BDNF (brain derived neurotropic factor). It is no wonder that zinc deficiency is associated with mood changes ranging from depression to rapidly changing thoughts, nervousness, hyperactivity and even psychosis.
5. Gastrointestinal problems – Supplementation with zinc may help strengthen the intestinal lining to protect against ‘leaky gut’ and heal intestinal cells. Most gastro-intestinal conditions benefit from zinc supplementation and often require higher levels because the intestinal absorption of zinc may be affected.
6. Skin complaints – It’s common knowledge that zinc is good for the skin and is important for wound healing. Low zinc levels might present with delayed wound healing. Stretch marks, especially in the teenage years are common with zinc deficiency. More severe zinc deficiency may cause atopic dermatitis and a cracked, fissured appearance of the skin.
7. Thinning and greying hair –Zinc deficiency is associated with de-pigmentation of the hair & may cause hair thinning and even alopecia.
8. Allergy symptoms. Zinc also helps break down histamine, released from mast cells. High histamine levels can trigger allergy symptoms, IBS, Reflux, rashes, even anxiety.
9. Adequate digestive secretions & stomach acid production requires zinc. Often when a person has supplemented with iron and levels have not risen, the addition of zinc to support stomach acid can make all the difference.
10. Zinc is also an essential cofactor needed for healthy thyroid function.
11. Hormone balance required adequate zinc levels. Zinc can act as an anti-inflammatory to the ovaries in PCOS, and is supportive for PMS…..
Lesley x
