This is in response to Patricia's recommendation of 15 mg of zinc to
improve appetite.  Toddler's who have been sick usually regain their
appetites when they feel better.   Zinc can cause problems with the
absorption of iron and particularly copper when given in excess.  Toddler
requirement is  5mg/d.
Zinc is used in many enzymes which are active in the immune system.   Zinc
is stored in bone and muscle, but may take some days to mobilize and thus
in periods of illness may be 'used up' and create a state of deficiency.
 However, since the zinc stores are usually good, it is soon mobilized.
  If zinc is given, it is probably best to give only in required amounts
(for age) and given for only a limited amount of time.
Like so much in our body, the system of zinc regulation is regulated by the
availability---that is, if there is a greater need, then there is less
excreted, and absorption from foods is enhanced.   When there is excess,
and no need, more will be excreted.  However, if there is an excessive
amount, it disturbs the balance of other nutrients.  In the case of zinc,
copper deficiency can be caused by high doses of zinc.
There you go--a dietitian's  $.02  worth...     Michelle Scott, RD,IBCLC


I posted last year about zinc and a lack of appetite in toddlers who had
been sick. After I posted, some Lactnetters whose toddlers were not eating
well had success in giving their children 15 mg of zinc daily(crushed and
"hidden" in something that the child will eat).  There can be many
nutritional deficiencies that result from prolonged illness and a zinc
deficience makes food taste bad, hence decreasing appetite.

With my daughter we noticed a marked improvement in appetite within a week
and by 2 weeks she was eagerly eating. This resolution has been repeated in
many children I've worked with.

Patricia Gima, IBCLC
Milwaukee

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