8 Subtle Signs You're Zinc-Deficient, and What They Mean

Zinc is essential for immune function, wound healing, and development; deficiency is uncommon in the U.S. but higher-risk groups include vegetarians/vegans and people with eating disorders, substance use, or GI conditions. The article lists eight signs: slow-healing wounds, hair loss, acne, higher risk of chronic disease, vision changes (age-related macular degeneration), loss of taste or smell, hearing issues, and stunted growth in children. If you notice several signs, consult a clinician, since zinc supplementation can help some symptoms but excessive zinc has downsides.