What should children eat to quickly replenish zinc deficiency?
Disease description:
My child was recently diagnosed with zinc deficiency during a check-up. Could you please advise what foods would help supplement zinc for his condition?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
When children are deficient in zinc, appropriately supplementing their diet with zinc-rich foods can help quickly restore zinc levels. The following are effective zinc-rich foods:
1. **Meat and Seafood**: Red meats such as beef, pork, and lamb, as well as seafood such as shrimp, crab, and shellfish, are good sources of zinc. These foods contain high levels of zinc and can rapidly replenish zinc deficiencies in the body.
2. **Nuts and Seeds**: Nuts such as almonds and walnuts, and seeds such as pumpkin seeds and sesame seeds are important sources of zinc. Nuts and seeds are rich in zinc and highly nutritious, making them suitable for children's consumption.
3. **Whole Grains and Legumes**: Whole grains such as oats and brown rice, and legumes such as lentils and black beans contain a certain amount of zinc. Although the zinc content in these foods is relatively lower, combining them with other zinc-rich foods can increase overall zinc intake.
If there are obvious symptoms of zinc deficiency, such as growth retardation or loss of appetite, it is important to consult a healthcare professional promptly.
