Zinc Deficiency Complications and Causes and Zinc Toxicity

Zinc Deficiency
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Zinc Deficiency Complications, Causes and, Zinc Toxicity
The main objective of this paper is to analyze the patient’s zinc deficiency complications and provide appropriate treatment recommendations. The World Health Organization estimates that zinc deficiency affects 31% of the population with extensive rates in various world regions ranging from 4% to 73 %. (Black &Caulfield, 2004). Zinc deficiency is a vast problem.
Zinc requirements and dietary intake are essential in the growth and development of young children as it increases resistance to infections consequently reducing the high mortality rates. (De Benoist., et al.). Moreover, Zinc boosts the immune system reducing upper respiratory diseases common in children. It also enhances the formation of collagen, which is essential in building bones and joints cartilage. Zinc mineral is extensive in all cells of the body. It is crucial in cellular growth as it is a necessary component for producing enzymes. These enzymes synthesize nuclear Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)-a protein that binds with Zinc leading to the child’s brain’s development structure and function. Zinc plays a vital role in DNA-binding protein, which regulates gene expression where Ribonucleic acid (RNA) factors bind with DNA leading to the expression of specific genes (Cousins, 1998). Zinc also helps boosts cognitive development, which is linked to attention and activity.
Zinc wasting is an indicator of zinc deficiency to meet the body’s needs. It is a result of inadequate intake or excessive losses of Zinc. Environmental factors also contribute to development issues that are common in malnourished children. Water quality is an environmental factor that affects zinc absorption. Natural surface waters constitute zinc trace elements. Undissolved Zinc in water is less likely to be absorbed; hence it might be potentially toxic. This case is typical in salty waters since they have high ionic bonds which inhibit other ions such as Zinc from absorption. (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,1980). Changes in alkalinities of water will increase toxicity in water and, as a result, will reduce the absorption of Zinc.
Copper is an important trace mineral that boosts the immune system. High intake of zinc levels results in low amounts of copper absorption leading to copper deficiency. Intake of adequate amounts of both Zinc and Copper will reduce the chances of imbalance of the two minerals in the body. Copper mineral is essential for proper growth, maintenance of the heart, brain, connective tissue...