Patient's question:
What should zinc eat to digest without zinc deficiency symptoms? 8 years old, since starting kindergarten, he loves to bite, especially his fingers, and recently he also likes to bite the corners of clothes and pencil tips. Treatment history and effectiveness: None, no allergies. What kind of assistance should be given: What should the child eat?Doctor's answer:
Mollusks not only contain high levels of zinc but also the amino acids produced from compressed protein can assist in zinc absorption. For example, oysters contain as much as 71.20 milligrams of zinc per 100 grams, while clams have 47.05 milligrams. In contrast, plant-based foods contain much less zinc, with only about 1 milligram per 100 grams. Additionally, oxalates, phytates, and cellulose in plant-based foods can hinder zinc absorption, resulting in an absorption rate of only about 10%. Fruits contain very little zinc, and their absorption rate is also low, around 10% at most. Therefore, to prevent zinc deficiency, it is important to cultivate children's dietary habits from a young age, ensuring they do not lack meat, do not be picky eaters, and avoid snacks. Encouraging them to consume more animal-based foods is especially important.