Throughout the month of October you can have your zinc level tested on site at Westgarth Pharmacy, Northcote.

Zinc is an essential mineral used extensively throughout the body.

Zinc deficiencies range from outright deficiency through to mid range or sub-optimal status. At this point, you will have multiple health concerns throughout the body all linked to an inadequate dietary intake of zinc.

Optimal zinc status on the other hand, is the best preventative medicine you could have against a dizzying array of symptoms and health concerns.

However, this in not a mineral to self-prescribe off the shelf at the pharmacy.

It is a trace but essential mineral that needs to be balanced with a range of other nutrients. Too much zinc and you risk a lowered iron status which comes with it’s own set of complications.

Below is just a partial list of health concerns associated with a low or sub-optimal zinc status:

Compromised Immunity

Recurrent infections such as colds, sore throats and chest infections due to lowered immunity and allergies such as hayfever.

Skin Conditions

Slow wound healing and skin issues such as acne, eczema and psoriasis.

Mental Health Conditions

Such as mood swings, anxiety and depression. Frank deficiency or sub-optimal zinc levels can also contribute to behavioral conditions such as attention deficit disorder, attention deficit, hyperactivity disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder.