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What are the benefits of consuming zinc?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Recently I heard about zinc deficiency and would like to know more about it.

  1. Could you tell me what the significance of zinc is and what the effects of zinc deficiency are?

  2. What are the symptoms of zinc deficiency and how can it be identified?

  3. What are sources of zinc and are there any supplements that you could recommend? How much zinc should I have on a daily basis?

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Raveendran S R

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Raveendran S R is a dedicated diabetes specialist and sexual medicine expert committed to providing evidence-based, confidential, and patient-centered care. With strong clinical and academic experience, he specializes in managing diabetes, erectile dysfunction, male infertility, performance concerns, and other men’s health conditions through structured and scientifically guided treatment approaches. Dr. Raveendran focuses on accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and long-term health improvement while ensuring patient comfort and privacy. Known for his compassionate and professional approach, he believes in clear communication and helping patients make informed decisions to improve their overall health, confidence, and quality of life.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concerns.

Zinc is an important mineral for immunity, cell division, and protein production. Zinc deficiency can cause frequent infections, hair loss, skin problems, diarrhea, poor growth, taste and smell disorders.

It is detected by blood tests and analysis of the symptoms. You may continue your zinc levels through

  • To avoid deficiency, take foods rich in zinc such as red meat, poultry, seafood, beans, nuts, whole grains, and dairy.

  • Zinc from animal sources includes red meat, poultry, and seafood, especially oysters.

  • From plant sources, zinc includes beans, nuts, whole grains, and dairy products.

  • Some foods such as cereals and dairy products are fortified with zinc.

  • The recommended daily value of zinc is 11 mg for men and 8 mg for women, and more when pregnant and breastfeeding.

In case of inadequate intake of zinc through food, you should think of taking zinc supplements, but you should not take more than 40 mg a day.

I hope this will help you.

If there are any other questions, please feel free to contact me.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At July 10, 2026
Reviewed At July 10, 2026

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Raveendran S R is a dedicated diabetes specialist and sexual medicine expert committed to providing evidence-based, confidential, and patient-centered care. With strong clinical and academic experience, he specializes in managing diabetes, erectile dysfunction, male infertility, performance concerns, and other men’s health conditions through structured and scientifically guided treatment approaches. Dr. Raveendran focuses on accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and long-term health improvement while ensuring patient comfort and privacy. Known for his compassionate and professional approach, he believes in clear communication and helping patients make informed decisions to improve their overall health, confidence, and quality of life.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Raveendran S R is a dedicated diabetes specialist and sexual medicine expert committed to providing evidence-based, confidential, and patient-centered care. With strong clinical and academic experience, he specializes in managing diabetes, erectile dysfunction, male infertility, performance concerns, and other men’s health conditions through structured and scientifically guided treatment approaches. Dr. Raveendran focuses on accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and long-term health improvement while ensuring patient comfort and privacy. Known for his compassionate and professional approach, he believes in clear communication and helping patients make informed decisions to improve their overall health, confidence, and quality of life.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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