Which combination of conditions increases the risk of zinc deficiency?

• A. Diarrhea; Malabsorption; Hypermetabolic states
• B. Hypertension; Hyperlipidemia; Asthma
• C. Sleep deprivation; Dehydration; Aging
• D. None of the above

Answer: (A)

Zinc deficiency is most likely when losses are high and the body’s demand is increased, while absorption is impaired. Diarrhea increases zinc loss in the stool and often worsens intestinal zinc absorption. Malabsorption directly reduces how much zinc is taken up from the gut. Hypermetabolic states raise zinc requirements because of accelerated tissue turnover, immune activity, and wound healing, which consume more zinc. When these factors occur together, zinc stores are depleted more quickly, making deficiency likely.

The other combinations don’t combine high loss, impaired absorption, and increased demand as strongly. Hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and asthma aren’t typical drivers of zinc deficiency, and sleep deprivation, dehydration, or aging alone don’t create the same level of combined risk.