How to prevent and treat zinc deficiency in children

Zinc is one of the essential trace elements and has many physiological functions. Zinc deficiency can lead to disorders of various physiological functions of the body. The main causes of zinc deficiency in children are partial eating, picky eating, anorexia, frequent snacking and increased need and excretion. According to the survey, the prevalence of zinc deficiency is about 40%. Zinc deficiency in children is characterized by loss of appetite, anorexia, slow growth, short stature, recurring mouth ulcers, reduced immune function, respiratory infections and diarrhea, etc. Some children suffer from omnivorous fetishes such as eating dirt, cinder, paper, wall skin, matches, etc. In severe cases, mental retardation and inattention. So how can we prevent zinc deficiency in children? 1, advocate breastfeeding: children within 6 months as far as possible exclusive breastfeeding; 2, timely addition of complementary foods: from the 6th month, gradually add egg yolk, minced meat, fish puree, liver and other complementary foods; 3, eat more zinc-rich food: such as beef, lamb, lean pork, animal liver, peanuts, soy, carrots, oysters, etc.; 4, good eating habits: develop the habit of eating regularly, less snacks; food to Coarse and fine, meat and vegetables are appropriate. In addition, parents should pay close attention to the baby’s mental state, growth and development, living and other aspects of life, such as anorexia, chronic diarrhea, oral and skin infections, or poor growth, should promptly go to the hospital for examination. Babies with zinc deficiency should be treated with zinc preparations under the guidance of a doctor.