The Bryce-Smith Zinc Taste Test
Written by Michael Gaeta, DAc, MS, CDN (edited minimally by TSA for clarity.)
This simple test can help evaluate whether your body has sufficient zinc.
Zinc is a critical mineral and one of the most essential trace elements in the body. Over 200 enzyme systems require zinc, and it is an integral part of immune function, regulating inflammation, skin and wound healing, cardiovascular function, mineral absorption, body temperature control, fertility, and more.
Zinc deficiency can result in many symptoms, including loss of appetite, growth retardation, diarrhea, tremor, hair loss, dandruff, dry skin rash, white fingernail spots, allergies, menstrual problems, slow wound healing, loss of taste or smell, dyslexia, poor night vision, light sensitivity, depression, sleep problems, hyperactivity, reduced fertility, loss of sex drive, pre-eclampsia of pregnancy, and postpartum depression.
Zinc insufficiency is also associated with autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. Good research supports the benefits of zinc supplementation in people with depression who are zinc deficient. (TSA note: zinc deficiency or insufficiency can affect thyroid functioning. Always consider zinc/copper issues immediately in post-partum depression.)
Derek Bryce-Smith, PhD (1926–2011) was a Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Reading and developed this test. He was an established authority on zinc and toxicity issues and began the movement that led to the widespread use of unleaded gasoline over the lead.
Directions: Hold 2 tsp Standard Process Zinc Test in your mouth for 30 seconds, then swallow.
● In zinc sufficiency, you will have an immediate foul or metallic taste.
● If the taste is delayed, mild, or absent, you likely have some zinc deficiency. Here are the four general categories of what you will experience.
The first two indicate deficiency.
Highly Deficient: Tasteless, like water.
Borderline: Slightly dry, mineral, furry, or even sweet taste, develops after a few seconds.
Good: Definite taste that intensifies with time.
Optimal: Strong unpleasant taste noticed immediately.
If you are deficient, your practitioner will recommend the appropriate Standard Process supplementation to correct it. Please repeat the test monthly until you achieve sufficiency. Most patients will feel better if their zinc deficiency is corrected.
For a complete evaluation of your nutritional mineral status and heavy metal toxicity, we recommend a tissue (hair) mineral analysis with Analytical Research Labs at least once each year. (TSA NOTE: This is the lab I use with my patients. The interpretation needs to be done by someone with experience, but it comes with a booklet that explains your findings in depth.)
Ask your practitioner for more information (drtsanta@ymail.com) or visit arltma.com for more details.
gaetacommunications.com Michael Gaeta is a fantastic mentor. He has educational courses that can be taken. The Winter and Summer Herbal Programs are phenomenal.