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5 Unexpected Signs You're Not Getting Enough Zinc

#3 is a huge red flag. - by Lucy Bode
  • 17 May 2018
5 Unexpected Signs You're Not Getting Enough Zinc
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More often than not, the word ‘malnourished’ evokes images of someone who is pale, underweight and super unwell. But when it comes to zinc deficiency, this couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, most people with low levels, wouldn’t even know it.

With that in mind, here are five unexpected signs yours aren’t up to scratch: 

1. Your skin has never been worse

FACT: 6 per cent of the zinc in our body is located in our skin. And considering the mineral helps to reduce inflammation, kill bacteria and increase absorption of vitamin A and E, it’s no wonder low levels have been found to increase the risk of acne.

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2. Cold and flus are the norm

Without adequate zinc levels, our immune system can’t function properly. The result? A weakened immune system and way longer healing time.

RELATED: What You Need To Know About Vitamin B12 Deficiency 

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3. Shuteye is elusive

You’ve probs heard of melatonin (aka, a hormone that helps you fall asleep). But what you might not know is that zinc plays a huge role in its production and regulation. One study found that a zinc supplement (which also contained melatonin and magnesium) improves symptoms in people suffering from insomnia.

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4. You’re shedding hair like no tomorrow

Zinc is essential when it comes to hair health as it’s responsible for keeping the protein structure of our follicles strong. In fact, a sluggish thyroid (which is a condition that has been linked to hair loss) is an indicator that your body isn’t absorbing zinc properly. 

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5. You’re sneezing and wheezing on the reg

Zinc plays a super important role in blocking the release of histamines in the blood – an excess can lead to increased sensitivity to allergens (pollen, dust, etc) and an increase in symptoms like a runny nose, swelling and rashes. 

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RELATED: 5 Unexpected Signs You're Not Getting Enough Vitamin D

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Lucy Bode
Lucy Bode
Lucy is Women Health’s digital editor, social media specialist and the go-to girl for all things holistic wellness. Her background as a journalist and passion for food, fitness and integrative medicine has led her to write for some of Australia’s leading publications over the course of her career.

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