Zinc deficiencies are not common in the United States. Certain population groups, however, may be more vulnerable to mild deficiencies that may result in skin disease. Vegetarians, for example, may not get enough zinc because some of the richest sources of zinc that the body can use are found in meat sources. Individuals suffering from malabsorption of nutrients such as celiac disease patients are also at risk. Because of zinc's far-reaching effects on body function, you should consult your doctor if you suspect a deficiency. Excessive zinc also carries health risks.
What Is Zinc?
Zinc is an essential trace mineral, meaning only miniscule amounts are required. Adult men only need 11 mg per day, whereas women should get 8 mg. Despite the small quantities required, zinc plays several pivotal roles in body function. It is essential for almost 100 different enzymes to carry out their chemical reactions. The composition of all cell membranes relies on zinc. It is this role in body structure that affects how zinc deficiencies manifest themselves in skin disorders.
Signs of Zinc Deficiencies
Signs of zinc deficiencies may appear even in infants. A 2007 study published in "European Journal of Pediatrics" found a positive association between infants with dermatitis and low zinc content of breast milk. Dermatitis is a generic term for inflammation of the skin. Infants treated with zinc supplementation responded to treatment within 24 hours, with complete treatment within 14 days. Skin conditions caused by zinc deficiencies may have psychological effects. A 2007 study by the University of Toronto published in "Medical Hypotheses" identified zinc among other nutrients that can influence the manifestation of acne and the associated psychological issues such as depression and anxiety.
Immune System Response
Another sign of a zinc deficiency involves its effects on the immune system. Zinc's use for treating the common cold is well documented. A well-known 1996 study by Cleveland Clinic Foundation published in "Annals of Internal Medicine" found that taking zinc shortened the duration of cold symptoms by over 40 percent. Zinc also has similar immune system benefits for the skin. One sign of a deficiency is delayed wound healing. This effect leaves skin vulnerable to secondary infections. It occurs because a deficiency impairs the ability of white blood cells to attack and ward off infectious agents.
Guidelines for Use
Dosage for zinc will vary depending upon the condition being treated. Drugs.com cautions that several drug interactions are possible including impairment of the absorption of other nutrients such as vitamin A, iron and copper. If you are taking antibiotics as part of your skin treatment, zinc may also interfere with some medications such as tetracyclines. In addition, some individuals may experience nausea from taking zinc. You may find that you can reduce these effects by taking zinc with food. Based on compelling evidence, you should discuss using zinc as part of your treatment plan for skin diseases.
References
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Zinc
- Linus Pauling Institute; Zinc; Victoria J. Drake; March 14, 2011
- "European Journal of Pediatrics"; Zinc-Deficiency Dermatitis in Breast-Fed Infants; A. Kienast, et al.; March 2007
- "Medical Hypotheses"; Acne vulgaris: Nutritional Factors May Be Influencing Psychological Sequelae; M. Katzman and A. Logan; April 2007
- "Annals of Internal Medicine"; Zinc Gluconate Lozenges for Treating the Common Cold. A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study; S. Mossad, et al.; July 1996
- Drugs.com: Zinc
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