Zinc is a vital component of over 300 enzymes, playing a role in metabolism, brain function, hormone regulation, muscle activity, and bone health. Master of Science, Doctor Nguyen Anh Duy Tung, from the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at Tam Anh General Clinic TP HCM, highlights common signs of zinc deficiency in children that parents should be aware of.

Poor appetite, stunted physical development

Zinc stimulates taste buds and promotes digestive system function, helping children eat well and achieve appropriate weight and height for their age. A lack of zinc can lead to poor appetite, making children less willing to eat and reducing their food intake. Prolonged deficiency risks slower weight gain and height development compared to age-appropriate levels.

According to Doctor Duy Tung, children's zinc requirements vary by age and generally increase over time. Infants from 0 to 6 months old need about 3 mg of zinc daily, typically met through breast milk. Children from 7 months to three years old require approximately 4 mg of zinc per day. From three years old onwards, due to increased physical activity and cognitive development, the necessary zinc intake is about 5-8 mg daily.

Weakened immune system

Zinc is involved in numerous immune system functions, helping the body maintain its protective barriers and respond to pathogens. Zinc deficiency weakens immune function, making children more susceptible to infections, especially with prolonged dietary deficiencies. Children may experience slow growth, diarrhea, or slow-healing wounds. If a child is frequently ill, has a poor appetite, or shows suboptimal growth, parents should seek medical advice to identify the cause and supplement zinc as appropriate.

Poor concentration

In the brain, zinc is concentrated in central regions, regulating neurotransmitters to enhance children's cognitive abilities, learning, and memory. Zinc deficiency can be linked to issues with attention, learning, or behavior in children.

Hair loss, diarrhea

Zinc participates in cell division, protein synthesis, and the maintenance of hair follicles. Insufficient zinc intake can lead to slow, weak, and easily falling hair. Zinc also helps maintain the protective barrier of the intestinal lining and supports the immune system. A deficiency can reduce the gut's ability to resist pathogens, making children prone to diarrhea.

Doctor Duy Tung provides nutritional counseling to a patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Children should supplement zinc through their diet. Here are some foods rich in this nutrient:

Meat and seafood: Parents can prioritize skinless poultry and lean meats. Common shellfish like shrimp and crab are also rich in zinc, with oysters being particularly notable, containing about 5,3 mg of zinc per oyster.

Dairy products: Besides calcium, fresh milk, yogurt, cheese, and low-fat milk contain zinc. On average, 100 ml of fresh milk or yogurt provides about 1 mg of zinc, while 100 g of cheese can supply approximately 3 mg of zinc.

Nuts, grains, and legumes: Wheat, oats, rice, and various beans provide zinc, fiber, B vitamins, and many minerals. Roasted nuts such as cashews, peanuts, or walnuts are suitable as convenient snacks for children.

Doctor Duy Tung notes that dietary changes require time to show results. In addition to a zinc-rich diet, parents should establish healthy habits for children, including early bedtime, adequate water intake, and encouraging physical activity to maintain their child's overall health.

Bui Duc