Patient's question:
Treatment and Effect: No special symptoms, just after thorough examination in the hospital, it was said that there is a zinc deficiency. They prescribed Tong Zinc, but it says the suitable age group is 3 to 12 years old. Can a six-month-old child drink it? What kind of assistance is needed: I want to ask if this Tong Zinc can be given to a six-month-old child...Doctor's answer:
If zinc deficiency occurs, it can lead to increased activity of zinc-containing enzymes, resulting in delayed growth and development, poor appetite, and even refusal to eat. When a child exhibits these symptoms again and suspicion of zinc deficiency arises, it is recommended to consult a doctor for a thorough examination of hair zinc and blood zinc levels. After zinc deficiency is diagnosed, zinc supplements should be taken under the guidance of a doctor. Currently, due to the widespread promotion of the dangers of zinc deficiency, some parents mistakenly give zinc supplements to infants as nutritional products in large quantities for a long time. However, they are unaware that excessive zinc supplementation can also cause harm, such as weakening the immune system and interfering with iron utilization, leading to anemia. Therefore, the best way to supplement zinc in daily life is through food. The specific methods are as follows: First, advocate breastfeeding. Second, consume more zinc-rich foods. Foods rich in zinc include oysters, herring, shrimp, kelp, fish meal, sesame, peanuts, pork liver, and legumes. Third, eliminate picky eating habits. The diet should be diversified, and refined foods such as polished rice and refined flour should be consumed in moderation.