Zinc blood test
zinc test · serum zinc · zinc level · trace minerals blood test
This blood test shows whether your body has enough zinc.
For hair loss, slow wound healing, frequent colds, changes in taste, long-lasting diarrhea, and in children, poor growth.
⏱ Duration: the blood draw takes a few minutes; results usually come in a few days
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Food. Blood is usually taken in the morning on an empty stomach: 8 to 12 hours without food. Plain water is fine. Check with the lab.
- Supplements. Ask your doctor if you should pause zinc supplements before the test.
- The day before. For 24 hours: no alcohol and no hard workouts. Try not to smoke in the morning.
- Clothing. A sleeve you can easily roll up above the elbow.
What to bring
- Your referral or list of tests
- Your ID
- A list of the vitamins and supplements you take
How it goes
- You sit down and rest your arm on the armrest
- A band is tied above your elbow, and you are asked to clench your fist a few times
- The skin is wiped with antiseptic
- A quick prick. Blood fills the tubes in a few seconds
- The needle comes out, and a cotton pad is pressed on the spot
What you'll feel
- A quick prick, like a pinch
- Sometimes slight dizziness. Tell the nurse, and they will help you lie down
Afterwards
- Press the cotton pad for 3 to 5 minutes
- You can eat right away
- Do not start taking zinc on your own. Your doctor will choose the dose based on the result
Contact a doctor straight away if
- The puncture site is very swollen, painful, and red
Common questions
Why on an empty stomach?
Blood zinc changes after meals. In the morning on an empty stomach, the result is more accurate.
Can I just start taking zinc without a test?
Better not. Too much zinc is harmful too, so your doctor should set the dose and how long to take it.