What are the symptoms of zinc deficiency in babies

Zinc is an essential micronutrient that is important for children’s growth and development, despite low levels in the body. Zinc deficiency is still relatively common in children due to inadequate intake, malabsorption, rapid growth and other reasons such as disease. Zinc deficiency has adverse effects on growth, immunity, and cognition in children. There are many problems that can occur with zinc deficiency, showing different symptoms in multiple systems. Zinc deficiency affects the function of taste buds, leading to loss of appetite and anorexia. Zinc deficiency can lead to reduced synthesis of nucleic acids and proteins, coupled with decreased appetite, affecting the growth and development of babies, resulting in low immunity, leading to recurring illnesses, as well as intellectual and behavioral impacts, such as a tendency to eat foreign objects such as wallpaper and dirt, which is referred to as xerophagia. In addition, it can also cause skin rashes, mouth ulcers, and sexual development disorders. For children with zinc deficiency, the first recommendation is to supplement the diet and correct the child’s poor eating habits. Foods high in zinc include animal liver, lean meat, seafood, etc. Foods fortified with zinc can also provide some zinc. Breastfeeding is promoted and complementary foods are added promptly when the infant reaches 6 months of age. If dietary supplementation is insufficient and symptoms are obvious, it is necessary to choose medication to supplement under the guidance of a physician. Commonly used medications include zinc gluconate, licorice zinc granules, and lysine gluconate zinc granules.