Zinc is an essential mineral crucial for triggering physical growth and neurological development in infants, children and teens. Present in all parts of your child's body, zinc functions to repair wounds, synthesize protein, enhance immunity and guard against free radicals. Although zinc deficiency is uncommon, your child's body does not store zinc, making daily intake of zinc necessary for optimal health.
Sources of Zinc
Zinc is found in a wide variety of dietary sources. Red meat, poultry, crab, oysters and dairy products contain zinc, as well as beans, nuts, whole grains and fortified breakfast cereals. Phytates reduce the bioavailability of zinc from grains and plant foods by binding zinc and preventing its absorption. Zinc supplements contain zinc gluconate, zinc sulfate and zinc acetate, with the percentage of elemental zinc varying by form. Several over-the-counter cold medications in the forms of nasal sprays, gels and lozenges contain zinc.
Dosage for Kids
Kids between the ages of 1 to 3 years require 3 mg of zinc daily, according to the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. Kids between the ages of 4 to 8 years need 5 mg of zinc daily. Between 9 to 13 years, kids need 8 mg of zinc daily. From ages 14 to 18, boys require 11 mg of zinc while girls require 9 mg of zinc each day. When pregnant or lactating, girls ages 14 to 18 need 12 mg and 13 mg of zinc, respectively.
Zinc Deficiency
In a study published in the May 2003 issue of the "Journal of Nutrition," zinc supplementation improved children's cognitive and motor functioning. Symptoms of zinc deficiency are growth retardation, mental lethargy, loss of appetite, diminished immune function and diarrhea. Zinc deficiency usually results from inadequate zinc intake, increased losses of zinc from the body or additional needs for zinc. People at risk for zinc deficiency include vegetarians, older infants who are exclusively breast-fed, individuals with sickle cell disease and pregnant and lactating women.
Implications
Your child's body cannot store zinc, an essential mineral vital to a strong immune system and normal growth and development. Zinc toxicity, however, may occur from excessive intake of zinc. Consult your child's doctor to determine if she would benefit from zinc supplements. A registered dietitian can assist you in planning meals that incorporate dietary sources of zinc for your child.
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