Zinc is an essential trace mineral that supports immunity, cell division and growth, wound healing, carbohydrate metabolism, taste and smell. Beef, pork, lamb, chicken and legumes are food sources of zinc. Infants need 2 to 3 milligrams a day of zinc, children need 3 to 8 milligrams a day and adults need 8 to 11 milligrams a day. A zinc deficiency can affect children and adults and is common in elderly people over the age of 75, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Hypogonadism
A zinc deficiency can result in hypogonadism, a condition in which the testes and ovaries do not produce enough sex hormones. Children who suffer from hypogonadism may have problems growing and be short in stature. Girls may not menstruate or develop breasts, and boys may not develop muscles or facial hair.
Women with hypogonadism may stop menstruating and have decreased libido, hot flashes and hair loss. Men may experience sexual dysfunction, a decrease in body and facial hair, breast enlargement and muscle loss.
Changes in Taste and Smell
Zinc deficiency can result in loss of appetite. According to the National Institutes of Health's Medline Plus, individuals with a zinc deficiency also may experience dysgeusia, a changes in taste, or hypogeusia, the loss of taste. Anosmia, a loss of smell, also can result from a zinc deficiency.
Additional Side Effects
Other side effects of a zinc deficiency include hair loss, night blindness, increased risk of infection, slow wound healing, fatigue and anemia. Skin conditions like acne, dermatitis and psoriasis can also develop.
Member Comments