What nutrient are anorexics most commonly deficient in?

Anorexia nervosa, a severe eating disorder characterized by significant weight loss and self-imposed starvation, often leads to a variety of nutrient deficiencies due to inadequate dietary intake. Among these, zinc deficiency is particularly notable.

Zinc plays a vital role in numerous physiological functions, including immune system support, wound healing, and protein synthesis. Individuals suffering from anorexia may restrict foods that are rich in zinc, such as meats, shellfish, legumes, and seeds, resulting in a deficit that can lead to symptoms such as impaired immune function, hair loss, and skin lesions.

While deficiencies in iron, vitamin D, and calcium are also common in individuals with anorexia, the prominence of zinc deficiency is specifically linked to the types of food commonly avoided. Therefore, identifying zinc as the nutrient most commonly deficient in this population highlights the specific dietary restrictions that can amplify health risks associated with the disorder.