The Purpose of a Zinc Test
Many people take zinc at the first sign of a cold, but it does much more for the body than combating germs and supporting the immune system. This multifunctional mineral is essential for fetal and childhood development, wound healing, cell growth, DNA production, and so much more. Daily dietary zinc consumption should be 11 mg for men and 8 mg for adult women (or 11 to 12 mg if they are pregnant or breastfeeding). You don’t want to get too much zinc from sources such as supplements, however, because that can cause stomach cramps, diarrhea, headaches, or other unpleasant symptoms. A zinc blood test ensures you’re not suffering from zinc deficiency or toxicity.
What Does the Zinc Level Blood Test Measure?
This test will help you get a clear picture of your zinc levels so you can take any necessary steps to address potential problems.
Who Should Take a Zinc Deficiency Test?
A zinc test can help rule out medical issues if you have unexplained symptoms such as:
- A tendency to get sick often, indicating poor immune function
- Loss of appetite
- Hair loss
- Lethargy
- Cuts or other wounds that take an unusually long time to heal
- Diarrhea
Additionally, certain medical conditions may inhibit zinc absorption. It can be wise to monitor your levels if you have diabetes, HIV, or rheumatoid arthritis, among others. A zinc lab can also be part of regular testing for nutrient levels in a proactive move to safeguard your health.
Zinc Lab Test Preparation
You don’t have to fast or follow other special instructions prior to your zinc lab test.
Zinc Level Blood Test Results
The exact range for normal zinc levels can vary by lab and by test, but a typical measurement should fall between 70 and 180 μgm/100ml. A deficiency may require lifestyle modification in the form of supplements and a zinc-rich diet with foods such as chickpeas, yogurt, and oatmeal. You may also continue to be monitored to make sure your zinc levels hit the target range with these modifications. You can talk with one of our expert physicians and get more recommendations during a private telehealth visit through Personalabs.
Where Can I Get Zinc Testing Near Me?
At Personalabs, you can shop our collection of over 400 health tests, including those focused on vitamin levels and nutrition. The tests are easy to purchase and use:
Step 1: Buy the test of your choice online, whether it’s a zinc deficiency test, a cancer screening test, a heart health test, or another health benchmark test. (You may not need a doctor’s approval prior to purchase; this will depend on the state where you live.) Download the lab order for the test you bought.
Step 2: Find the lab near you with our location tool. You have the option to choose from more than 4,000 Labcorp and Quest Diagnostics facilities nationwide.
Step 3: Bring the downloaded lab order to get your blood drawn.
Step 4: Review your results in your private Personalabs account about 2 to 10 business days after taking the blood test. (Contact us if you need a specific turnaround time so we can work with your lab to make it happen.)
Don’t leave your health to chance. Make informed decisions, based on accurate data, with the help of Personalabs.
