An essential mineral for immunity, wound healing, taste, and enzyme function.
What it is
Serum or plasma zinc is a snapshot of zinc status. It falls with inflammation and can be affected by fasting state and sample handling.
Why it matters
Low zinc may relate to diet, gut losses, or increased demand. High values are less common and need clinical context.
This guide is educational only and cannot diagnose you. Discuss results, especially anything outside your laboratory’s reference interval, or that does not match how you feel, with a GP or other appropriately qualified clinician.
How it affects the body
Zinc-dependent enzymes support DNA synthesis, antioxidant defence, and immune signalling.
For athletes
Heavy sweat losses and restricted diets can stress zinc status; food-first approaches beat megadose self-supplementation.
