Allergies – Histamine is an organic compound that has many important roles within the body, one of which being its role in causing common allergy symptoms such as swelling, itching, and sneezing. Believe it or not, these allergy symptoms are designed to help our bodies in fighting off pathogens (bacteria, virus, or other unwelcome microorganisms), and so forms an integral part of the immune response. 

Studies have shown that zinc plays a role in suppressing the release of histamine from our bodies, helping to regulate our immune response. So, a deficiency in zinc would have the opposing effect, whereby the body releases more histamine than usual. Too much of a good thing is not always beneficial, and high levels of histamine can make you more susceptible to allergy symptoms, in circumstances that would otherwise not warrant them.

Diarrhoea – Zinc deficiency is associated with an increased risk of gastrointestinal infections, as well as an adverse effect on the structure and function of the gastrointestinal tract. This effect is two-fold, as diarrhoea can result in malabsorption of nutrients, including zinc, which will only act to further exacerbate zinc deficiency, a vicious cycle.

Hair loss – Zinc plays an important role in the growth and repair of hair, whilst also helping to keep the oil glands around the hair follicles working properly. One theory in relation to the hair follicle states that zinc deficiency leads to a change in the protein structure of hair follicles, leading to structurally weaker hair. As a result, new hairs will fall out earlier than they should. 

Loss of appetite – It is believed that Zinc negatively affects Ghrelin & leptin. These are ‘hunger hormones’ which stimulate appetite and cause us to seek out food. A reduction in the level of these hormones will consequently reduce appetite.  

Sight problems – Zinc is present in high concentrations within the eyes, mostly found in the vascular layer of tissue (choroid) found below the retina of the eye. Zinc plays an important role in bringing vitamin A from the liver towards the retina, a vitamin required in the production of the protective pigment ‘melanin’ in the eyes.

Studies have also demonstrated that zinc may play a role in preventing age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The ‘macula’ forms part of the retina and is responsible for central vision. Central vision is one of the most important parts of a person’s vision and is necessary for reading, driving, and recognising faces.

Skin problems – Zinc has a role in helping to maintain the health of the largest organ of our body, the skin. This is due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which are beneficial in helping to prevent inflammatory acne and eczema, amongst other skin conditions. A lack of zinc in the body has also been shown to impair, and in some cases even prevent wound healing.

Weakened immunity – Zinc is crucial for the normal development and function of cells involved in the immune system, namely white blood cells. These cells have the basic function of protecting us against illness and disease, achieved by fighting off viruses, bacteria, and other micro-organisms that threaten to disrupt our health.

Weight loss – As previously mentioned, zinc has the potential to cause a reduced appetite, and in long-standing and untreated zinc deficiency is the primary weight loss.