BiomarkersZinc (serum)

Minerals

Zinc (serum)

For immunity, skin, hormones, taste and smell

On your report it may say: Serum zinc, Plasma zinc

Zinc supports immunity, wound healing, skin, hormones and taste. Vegetarian diets high in phytates (from grains and pulses) reduce zinc absorption, so low intake is common.

Updated 2026-10-26

Typical ranges · µg/dL

Low below 70
In range 70–120
High 120+

µmol/L = µg/dL × 0.153

Zinc falls after meals, later in the day and during infection, so a morning fasting sample is best.

Ranges vary by lab, age and sex. The range printed on your report applies.

If it's low

Your zinc may be too low for good immune and skin function.

Common causes

  • Vegetarian diet high in phytates
  • Diarrhoea or gut conditions
  • Alcohol
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding
  • Diabetes

What you might notice

  • Frequent infections
  • Slow wound healing
  • Hair shedding
  • Loss of taste or smell
  • Acne or skin issues

If it's high

High zinc usually comes from supplements; long-term excess can cause copper deficiency.

Common causes

  • High-dose zinc supplements
  • Zinc lozenges used for long periods

What you might notice

  • Nausea
  • Low copper with anaemia over time

Testing

Who should test
Vegetarians, people with frequent infections, slow healing, hair loss or poor taste.
How to prepare
Morning, fasting sample.
When to retest
8–12 weeks after starting zinc.

What can help

Food sources

Pumpkin seedsChickpeas and lentils (soaked or sprouted)CashewsDairyEggs and meat

See a doctor if zinc is very low or you've taken high doses for months.

Common questions

Why soak or sprout pulses?

It lowers phytates, so more zinc is absorbed.

Can I take zinc with iron?

Better to space them 2 hours apart; they compete.

Explore further

Sources

  1. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements: Zinc fact sheet for health professionals

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For general education only, not medical advice. Ranges shown are typical for adults; the range printed on your lab report applies. Talk to a qualified doctor about your results.