TF and diabetes mellitus: Serum Zn concentrations can be affected by various factors, including dietary intake; the status of Zn-binding proteins such as albumin, transferrin, and α-2-macroglobulin, diabetes mellitus, gastrointestinal disorders leading to malabsorption, heavy alcohol use, medications and various medical conditions that result in Zn depletion, and foods high in phytate content.70