Zinc Test - Price, Purpose, Procedure, Preparation, & Results

Table of Content

Introduction to Zinc Test

Zinc is crucial in carrying out multiple physiological processes inside the body. From the immune system to supporting the functioning of DNA and even in the healing of wounds, the role of zinc is evident. Zinc is an essential trace element that plays a crucial role in numerous physiological functions within the human body. From immune system support to DNA synthesis and wound healing, zinc's importance cannot be overstated. Given its vital role, assessing zinc levels through blood tests is critical to diagnosing and managing various health conditions.

If you are looking to get your Zinc Test done, you can book your test with Redcliffe Labs. We provide doorstep sample collection services with no hassle of going to the collection centers. More than 50,000 doctors trust us to provide accurate results.

Test Details:

What is the Purpose of the Zinc Test?

Before diving into the specifics of zinc blood tests, it’s important to understand why zinc is essential for our health. Zinc is involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions and is involved in multiple biological processes:

•  Immune Function: 

Zinc is crucial for maintaining a robust immune system. It helps develop and function immune cells and plays a role in inflammatory responses.

•  Cell Growth and Division: 

Zinc is vital for cell division and growth, proper development, and tissue repair.

•  Wound Healing: 

Zinc's role in protein synthesis and cell growth aids wound healing and skin health.

•  DNA Synthesis: 

Zinc is necessary for DNA synthesis and repair, supporting genetic stability.

• Enzyme Function: 

Many enzymes depend on zinc to catalyze critical biochemical reactions.

• Protein Synthesis: 

Zinc synthesizes proteins, which are essential for muscle growth and repair.

So, it is important to maintain the level of zinc in the body as it is involved in multiple activities, and this is where the zinc test comes in handy. The zinc test is important because it shows the levels of zinc present in the blood. If one gets tested regularly, it can even become an indicator of any abnormalities that can be prevented easily. 

Symptoms of Zinc Deficiency:

Zinc deficiency can result in skin changes that look like eczema at first. There may be cracks and a 'glazed' (smooth or glassy) appearance. These changes may be noticed first around the mouth, nappy area, and hands. The rash doesn't improve with moisturizers, steroid creams, or lotions.

People with zinc deficiency may also have:

• hair loss
• skin and hair changes
• eye problems
• more infections than usual
• wounds that take a long time to heal
• loss of taste and smell
• Diarrhea

Zinc deficiency can slow a child's growth and delay their reaching sexual maturity (puberty).

Preparations Before the Zinc Serum Test:

No special set of rules must be followed before taking the Zinc blood test. However, these are some basic guidelines to be followed:

• You are not required to fast before taking the Zinc Serum test, but if your health requires it, talk to your physician about any special dietary requirements.
• If you are pregnant, you might be taking any medication or supplements. It is important to inform your doctor about that as well. You do not have to panic in such situations; they will also tell you the solution if they think there is an issue. 
• It is a blood test, so avoiding any workouts or yoga before taking the test is always recommended.
• It is always advised that you skip smoking or drinking alcohol before taking the test because there are high chances that it may alter your test results, and you will not be able to get accurate test results.

Following the above steps, you will be fine while getting tested, and no exceptional preparation will be required before the blood test.

The Procedure for the Zinc Blood Test:

This Zinc Test is like any other blood test; it does not take more than 5-10 minutes for the phlebotomist to take the blood sample. The procedure for getting the test is as follows:

• The phlebotomist, on arrival, tells you to make a fist and ties a band around your arm.
• They tell you to make a fist so the veins are properly visible.
• They disinfect the area from which the blood is to be drawn.
• Then, a thin, sterile needle is inserted into the vein to draw blood, and after the needle is removed, a bandage is put on the punctured area.
• After drawing the blood, they put it in a vial, seal it, and label it.
• This vial is then taken to the laboratory to be tested.

Keep in mind that this is not a painful process. It may sting when the syringe is injected and blood is drawn from the body, but that is about it. This sensation goes away in a day or two, so if you are experiencing the pain or the sting for a longer period, you must consult your doctor to find out what is 

Interpretation of the Zinc Blood Test Results:

Only getting tested is never enough. It is also important that you understand what your test results are. This gives you control over your health conditions and whether you need to consult with your doctor and go for further tests. Here is how you can understand the normal range of zinc in the body.

• Normal Range:

The normal range for zinc levels in the blood is typically between 60 and 120 micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL). However, reference ranges can vary slightly depending on the laboratory and the testing method.

Knowing the normal range, the question arises: What do the high and low levels of zinc mean, and what are the leading causes of those? Here is how you can better understand the abnormal levels of zinc in your body.

•  Low Zinc Levels

Low zinc levels (hypozincemia) may indicate:

Nutritional Deficiency: Poor dietary intake or malabsorption can lead to insufficient zinc levels.

Chronic Illnesses: Chronic liver disease, renal disease, and diabetes can affect zinc absorption and utilization.

Acute Illness or Infection: Acute infections or illnesses can temporarily lower zinc levels as the body uses more zinc for immune function.

Growth Retardation: In children, low zinc levels can lead to stunted growth and developmental delays.

•  High Zinc Levels:

High zinc levels (hyperglycemia) are less common but can occur due to:

Excessive Supplementation: Overuse of zinc supplements can lead to toxicity.

Occupational Exposure: Individuals working in mining or metal processing industries may be exposed to high zinc levels.

Chronic Diseases: Chronic conditions can lead to abnormal zinc metabolism and elevated blood levels.

How to Manage Zinc Levels in the Body?

Zinc is an important nutrient, and one should always be mindful of getting the required quantity into one's body. If you are deficient in zinc, you can include certain food items in your diet and even take supplements if your doctor thinks they are required to keep your body healthy and maintain the level of zinc in the body.

1. Dietary Sources of Zinc

To maintain optimal zinc levels, including zinc-rich foods in your diet is essential. Some excellent dietary sources of zinc include:

• Meat: Beef, pork, and lamb are rich in zinc.
• Seafood: Oysters, crab, and lobster are particularly high in zinc.
• Dairy: Milk, cheese, and yogurt provide good amounts of zinc.
• Legumes: Chickpeas, lentils, and beans are plant-based sources of zinc.
• Nuts and Seeds: Pumpkin, sesame, and cashews are excellent sources.
• Whole Grains: Whole wheat, quinoa, and oats contain zinc.
• Fortified Foods: Some cereals and snack bars are fortified with zinc.

2. Supplementation:

Supplementation may be necessary if dietary intake is insufficient or if there are underlying health issues affecting zinc absorption. Zinc supplements are available in various forms, including:

• Zinc Gluconate: Commonly used in over-the-counter supplements and cold tablets.
• Zinc Sulfate: Often used to treat zinc deficiency.
• Zinc Acetate: Used in dietary supplements and tablets.
• Zinc Picolinate: A highly absorbable form of zinc.

To avoid the risk of toxicity, it’s important to follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplementation. Always remember that you need to take supplements only when doctors prescribe them.

Zinc Test Price - Redcliffe Labs!

The Zinc Test cost at Redcliffe Labs is INR 2000. Normally, this price can vary depending on the lab you are booking the test from. However, at Redcliffe Labs, we try to keep these prices minimal so that diagnostic services are accessible to all.

If you are looking for a place to get tested, you can book your test with Redcliffe Labs. You can go to our website or download the Redcliffe Labs app and book your test within a minute. We provide a home sample collection facility so you can get yourself tested without worrying about waiting in long queues when you are not feeling your best. More than 50,000 doctors trust our services, as we are known to provide accurate test results.

So what are you waiting for?

Book your Test with Us Now!

Zinc Test Cost in Different Cities - Redcliffe Labs

Note: We also offer Zinc Test PAN India. Please call the number 8988988787 to check the availability of our services in your area.