Description
Why It’s Done:
• To evaluate zinc deficiency or zinc toxicity in individuals with symptoms such as poor immune response, delayed wound healing, growth problems, neurological issues, or hair loss.
• To assess zinc status in people with conditions that may affect zinc metabolism or absorption, such as malabsorption disorders, chronic illnesses, kidney disease, or malnutrition.
• To monitor excessive zinc intake, especially in individuals taking high-dose zinc supplements or those with zinc toxicity symptoms (e.g., nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain).
Preparation:
• 24-hour urine collection: You will be asked to collect all urine over a 24-hour period in a special container provided by your healthcare provider.
• Start the collection by voiding the bladder first thing in the morning, and then collect all subsequent urine, including the last sample of the 24-hour period.
• Avoid taking zinc supplements or other medications that may affect zinc levels, as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Ensure that the 24-hour collection is complete to avoid inaccurate results.
