Zinc, Serum
Understanding Zinc, Serum
What is Zinc, Serum?
A Zinc, Serum test helps to determine the levels of zinc in your body, an essential mineral that contributes significantly to various bodily functions, including immune system support, wound healing, and metabolism. This test helps identify deficiencies or excesses of the zinc ensuring the optimal presence of this element necessary for overall well-being.
Zinc is an important trace element necessary for normal bodily functions. It is essential for various enzymes to work properly. Its significance extends to wound healing, blood clotting, thyroid function, taste and smell senses, metabolism, and enzymatic activity. In phases like pregnancy, childhood, and adolescence, zinc plays an important role in promoting healthy growth and development.
Understanding your zinc levels through testing ensures that your body maintains this essential mineral for optimal functioning. A Zinc, Serum test is particularly useful in evaluating nutritional health and identifying conditions associated with zinc imbalance.
You may need a Zinc, Serum test if you are noticing symptoms related to low or high zinc levels or are currently taking zinc supplements. Low zinc levels can lead to immune system dysfunction, impaired growth and development, skin disorders, hair loss, diarrhea, and neurological problems. On the other hand, excessive zinc levels may result in toxicity, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and immune suppression.
Usually, no special preparation is required for this test. Also, it is important to inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking before opting for the Zinc, Serum. Certain medications or supplements might influence your test results, potentially requiring adjustments or temporary discontinuation before the test.
It is noteworthy that test results may vary depending on your age, gender, or health history. Additionally, lab test results may vary across different laboratories. Abnormal test results require an expert interpretation, therefore, never try to self-medicate at home based solely on these results, and always consult a doctor for proper understanding of the test results. The test results will help your doctor make recommendations for lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, and determine whether medication/treatment will be required to manage your condition and improve your quality of life.
What is Zinc, Serum used for?
A Zinc, Serum test is done:
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To assess zinc levels in the body.
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To identify zinc deficiencies or excesses of zinc.
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To evaluate nutritional health.
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To detect conditions associated with zinc imbalance.
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To monitor and address symptoms related to low or high zinc levels.
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To monitor treatment for zinc deficiency.
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In pregnant women to determine the level of zinc.
What does Zinc, Serum measure?
A Zinc, Serum test helps determine the amount of zinc in your blood. About 20–30% of ingested zinc is absorbed in the small intestine and then transported into the blood. Zinc is present in various tissues throughout the body but is not stored in any particular location. The primary route of zinc excretion is through feces, with very small amounts of zinc being lost in urine, sweat, and other bodily secretions.
In situations where zinc requirements exceed intake, or poor absorption occurs, zinc deficiency may occur. This deficiency may impact various bodily functions since zinc is essential for numerous physiological processes.
It's noteworthy that early stages of zinc deficiency, especially in individuals with known risk factors, can be managed with primary care and a well-balanced diet.
Interpreting Zinc, Serum results
Interpretations
Normal range:
Males: 75 to 291µg/dL
Females: 65 to 256µg/dL
Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Zinc, Serum
Frequently Asked Questions about Zinc, Serum
Q. When should I get the Zinc, Serum test done?
Q. Is there any risk associated with the Zinc, Serum test?
Q. How can I prepare for a Zinc, Serum test?
Q. How is a Zinc, Serum test conducted?
Q. What factors can cause zinc deficiency?
Q. Can a zinc deficiency be prevented?
Q. What are some common food sources of zinc?
Q. What happens if zinc is high in the body?
Q. What other tests might be recommended if my Zinc, Serum test results are abnormal?
Book Zinc, Serum at-home
References
- Maxfield L, Shukla S, Crane JS. Zinc Deficiency. [Updated 2023 June 28]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493231/
- Zinc deficiency [Internet]. Healthdirect; Jun. 2023 [Accessed 11 Dec. 2023]. Available from: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/zinc-deficiency#:~:text=of%20zinc%20deficiency%3F-,Zinc%20deficiency%20can%20result%20in%20skin%20changes%20that%20look%20like,moisturisers%2C%20steroid%20creams%20or%20lotions.
- Zinc [Internet]. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements; 28 Sept. 2022 [Accessed 11 Dec. 2023]. Available from: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Zinc-HealthProfessional/
- Agnew UM, Slesinger TL. Zinc Toxicity. [Updated 2022 Dec 11]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554548/
- Zinc and your health [Internet]. Healthdirect; Jun. 2023 [Accessed 11 Dec. 2023]. Available from: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/zinc
- Wieringa FT, Dijkhuizen MA, Fiorentino M, Laillou A, Berger J. Determination of zinc status in humans: which indicator should we use? Nutrients. 2015 May 6;7(5):3252-63. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4446750/
- Roohani N, Hurrell R, Kelishadi R, Schulin R. Zinc and its importance for human health: An integrative review. J Res Med Sci. 2013 Feb;18(2):144-57. PMID: 23914218; PMCID: PMC3724376. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3724376/
- Rabinovich D, Smadi Y. Zinc. [Updated 2023 May 1]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547698/
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