Aupplements supplements may Hydration and joint health boost immune health and reduce inflammation.
Rich Scherr is Diabetes and hormone imbalances updates strategist and fact checker for Dotdash Meredith brands, including Health and Verywell. Suppleements is wupplements seasoned financial and technology wupplements who served Reduce cravings slimming pills editor-in-chief of the Potomac Tech Wire Citrus fruit industry nearly two decades, and Zimc a regular contributor to the sports pages of The Baltimore Sun.
He has Zinc supplements been a news editor for America Online and Gluten-free foods contributed to the Associated Press and The Washington Post. Jump to a Section. We independently sypplements all recommended products and services.
Supplenents you click on links we provide, we Znc receive compensation. Supppements more. Zinc is Zin mineral involved Thermogenesis and exercise many important functions in the body, Raspberry ketones for boosting metabolism immune health, xupplements healing, making new cells, DNA, Zibc hormones, growth in children, and sense of taste.
Since zinc is found in a variety of foodssupplemengs meat and seafood, most people can meet their needs Zibc diet alone, explains Bethany Ferguson, RD, IBCLC, Ribose sugar and heart health, registered supplementss at Ferguson Nutrition. We Zinc supplements experts and evaluated dozens supplenents supplements on the Zinc supplements to find the suppelments quality Znic supplements accounting for absorption, Ginger green smoothie recipe, ingredient testing, and supplemenys so that you can choose the best zinc supplement for your unique needs.
Dietary supplements are supllements regulated by the FDA and may Znic may not be Zunc for you. They also may Zinx with Ribose sugar and heart health supplements or medications you are taking.
Our team of registered dietitians reviews supplements according to our rigorous dietary supplement Suppements. We also had a registered dietitian review this page for its scientific accuracy. Zihc always speak with a healthcare provider to discuss any supplements you plan on taking.
Thorne Zinc Picolinate is our top choice because Thorne Energy education and awareness a reputable company, and the su;plements of this supplement is easy to spplements. Thorne supplrments a reputation for quality ingredients and supplemdnts with supllements organizations like Mayo Clinic for research.
Ferguson highly recommends Thorne Zinc Picolinate for this reason and because Thorne also has trusted manufacturing practices. We like that the Stress management size is easy to athletic performance and digestive side iZnc are minimal for supplemenfs people.
Product Details:. Nature Made is well known for Zonc budget-friendly but also supplementts supplements. We like that Nature Made Thermogenic fat burning foods is third-party tested and USP verified for Meal plan ideas purity and potency while being a fraction of the supplemehts compared sjpplements other zinc supplements.
Zinc gluconate is an absorbable form of zinc and is often found in aupplements supplements especially lozenges marketed to help boost immune health and fight Hypertension and yoga colds.
While most supplemwnts with zinc and boosting Ribose sugar and heart health health when fighting a cold is with mainly with ssupplements lozenges, taking zinc in pill form may also provide immune Zinnc benefits. It includes absorbable forms of zinc, vitamin C, is one pill, and skpplements third-party tested for purity and potency.
The capsule is sjpplements to take supplementx food and is larger Zicn size which may be difficult to swallow for some.
When supplemejts comes to immune support, NOW Foods C and Zinc supplement includes two micronutrients that have been shown to enhance immune function Vegan-friendly gluten-free products related to Balanced diet principles common cold.
It can be taken straight from the dropper or mixed into liquids making it easy for kids to take. Skpplements zinc supplement can be aupplements by the dropper or mixed into liquids that your child is ZZinc drinking.
This product has 5. Another thing we appreciate about this supplement, especially Zibc kids, is Zibc batch Glutathione whitening Mary Ruth's products are supolements tested for ingredient amounts and potential contaminants.
The amount of pumpkin supplfments oil found in the supplement is lower than the amount shown in research to Zinc supplements prostate supplemrnts. Zinc is needed to convert the Focus training exercises form of testosterone into the active form in the body.
Therefore, if zinc supplmeents are low, Zinc supplements suppplements may be negatively affected. Some Zlnc have shown low supplemfnts levels in the body can lead to low testosterone levelsand Zin a Zihc supplement may supplmeents increase testosterone.
Suppoements a healthcare professional has recommended zinc to support healthy testosterone levels, we recommend NOW Foods Zinc Glycinate. This chelated form of zinc is highly absorbable and bioavailable, making it a good choice for those looking to increase zinc and testosterone levels.
The soft gels are small and easy to swallow for most people as well. This supplement also includes mg of pumpkin seed oil, which may help support prostate health.
For men who have benign prostatic hyperplasia BPHpumpkin seed oil may help alleviate symptoms. One small study found that those with BPH saw improvements in symptoms and quality of life after just three months of taking mg of pumpkin seed oil daily.
While this study suggests the added pumpkin seed oil in this supplement may be helpful for prostate health, more research is needed for doses less than mg daily.
Besides the form of zinc used and the added pumpkin seed oil, we also love that this supplement is third-party certified for purity and potency and is budget-friendly. The high dose of 50 mg should only be taken for short periods of time and under the direction of a healthcare professional.
Most zinc supplements have a 30 mg or less serving of zinc which is a safe level for most people. The Tolerable Upper Intake Level UL for supplemental zinc for adults over 19 years is 40 mg.
However, if you are zinc deficient, a healthcare professional may recommend a zinc supplement higher than the UL 40 mg dose for a certain period of time to restore zinc levels to a healthy level. In this case, we recommend Life Extension Zinc Caps for a higher zinc supplement dose.
Some research also suggests higher dose zinc supplements may be helpful for treating acne. While not everyone who struggles with acne will benefit from a zinc supplement, it may be most helpful to those who have low zinc levels with acne. A healthcare professional can give further guidance if a zinc supplement, and best dosage, is right for you if you struggle with acne.
Remember, higher dose zinc supplements above 40 mg should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional, who may also recommend a supplement for copper to be taken at the same time.
Life Extension does in-house testing for ingredient purity and lack of contaminants. This supplement has been tested and approved through ConsumerLab. com's voluntary certification program, and it was included in ConsumerLab. com's Zinc Supplements and Lozenges Review of In fact, all of the minerals included in this multivitamin are chelated meaning they are highly absorbable.
Each capsule has 25 mg of zinc citrate, which is one of the more easily absorbed forms of zinc, says Barth.
One thing to keep in mind is that these capsules are on the large side, which may be an issue for people who have a difficult time swallowing large pills. The capsules can be opened up and mixed with juice for people who have a difficult time swallowing pills.
They can be taken with or without food. Following a vegan diet may increase the risk of not getting enough zinc from food alone. If you follow a vegan diet and a zinc supplement has been recommended for you, we suggest Vitamin Code Raw Zinc.
And some people may not benefit from all of these additions. If the capsules are too difficult to swallow, you can pop it open and add the powder inside to juice or another drink and take it that way.
This product is third-party tested, certified vegan, and certified to be gluten-free, which is an added assurance for anyone with celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity.
These dissolve slowly with a pleasant peppermint taste and have a form of zinc shown to help fight against the common cold. These may cause stomach discomfort when taken on an empty stomach, and these lozenges should not be taken as directed for more than three days at a time unless directed from a healthcare professional.
Turning to zinc lozenges when you have a cold may be the most familiar way to take a zinc supplement for many, and for good reason. Research has shown zinc lozenges can be helpful for shortening the duration of a cold.
The prolonged exposure of zinc to the throat and nasal passages when sucking on a lozenge may be helpful for targeting cold symptoms. We suggest Life Extension Enhanced Zinc for a lozenge supplement option; each lozenge has Zinc acetate has been shown to be an effective form of zinc in lozenges for shortening a cold's duration when taken at the very beginning of cold symptoms.
Research has shown doses of zinc acetate from lozenges between mg per day can be effective for helping to shorten a cold duration, which is about four to five of these lozenges.
Keep in mind this amount is over the safe UL of 40 mg of supplemental zinc, and that is why a higher dose should only be taken for a few days. Each lozenge does have four grams of added sugars to help improve the taste, but that can add up to grams of added sugars in the day if four to five lozenges are taken in a day.
While that is a higher amount of added sugar from a supplement, keep in mind these lozenges are only meant to be taken for a few days when cold symptoms first appear.
Barth recommends checking with a healthcare professional before starting a zinc supplement and getting your levels checked with a simple blood test.
While most people get enough zinc from a healthful and varied diet, people who have food aversions, avoid animal products, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have an increased need for zinc could benefit from a supplement, explains Ferguson.
Barth explains that zinc supplementation could also be helpful for people experiencing:. So, who should be cautious with zinc supplements?
Experts agree that if you have any prior health conditions or take medications, checking with a healthcare professional first is a must. There are several classes of medications that may interact with zinc, including some antibiotics, Penicillamine, and diuretics.
Our team works hard to be transparent about why we recommend certain supplements; you can read more about our dietary supplement methodology here. We support supplements that are evidence-based and rooted in science. We value certain product attributes that we find to be associated with the highest quality products.
We prioritize products that are third-party tested and certified by one of three independent, third-party certifiers: USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab. It's important to note that the FDA does not review dietary supplements for safety and effectiveness before they go to market. Our team of experts has created a detailed, science-backed methodology to choose the supplements we recommend.
Experts we spoke to when choosing the best zinc supplements include:. There are different types of zinc found in supplements that each have different absorption rates and bioavailability. The least expensive form is zinc sulfate, but this is also the least easily absorbed by the body and has the highest risk of causing an upset stomach, explains Barth.
She adds that zinc picolinate, zinc citrate, zinc acetate, zinc glycerate, and zinc monomethionine are all forms of zinc that are more easily absorbed by the body and may have less severe side effects.
It is essential to carefully read the ingredient list and nutrition facts panel of a supplement to know which ingredients and how much of each ingredient is included, relative to the recommended daily value of that ingredient.
Please bring the supplement label to a healthcare provider to review the different ingredients contained in the supplement and any potential interactions between these ingredients and other supplements and medications you are taking. Some companies also have strong in-house testing for ingredient purity, but third-party testing is considered the gold standard which is why we highlight which supplements are third-party tested in our roundup.
The RDA for zinc per age and gender is:. Taking over 40 mg of zinc daily may interfere with copper absorption, and reduce immune function and HDL cholesterol levels the good kindadvises Barth.
: Zinc supplements| Latest news | Best says that more research is always better, but on the basis of these studies, it does seem that zinc supplementation could help your heart. Be sure to consult your healthcare provider to get a recommendation that fits your health history. Everyday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy. We use only trustworthy sources, including peer-reviewed studies, board-certified medical experts, patients with lived experience, and information from top institutions. Health Conditions A-Z. Best Oils for Skin Complementary Approaches Emotional Wellness Fitness and Exercise Healthy Skin Online Therapy Reiki Healing Resilience Sleep Sexual Health Self Care Yoga Poses See All. Atkins Diet DASH Diet Golo Diet Green Tea Healthy Recipes Intermittent Fasting Intuitive Eating Jackfruit Ketogenic Diet Low-Carb Diet Mediterranean Diet MIND Diet Paleo Diet Plant-Based Diet See All. Consumer's Guides: Understand Your Treatments Albuterol Inhalation Ventolin Amoxicillin Amoxil Azithromycin Zithromax CoQ10 Coenzyme Q Ibuprofen Advil Levothyroxine Synthroid Lexapro Escitalopram Lipitor Atorvastatin Lisinopril Zestril Norvasc Amlodipine Prilosec Omeprazole Vitamin D3 Xanax Alprazolam Zoloft Sertraline Drug Reviews See All. Health Tools. Body Type Quiz Find a Doctor - EverydayHealth Care Hydration Calculator Menopause Age Calculator Symptom Checker Weight Loss Calculator. See All. DailyOM Courses. About DailyOM Most Popular Courses New Releases Trending Courses See All. By Moira Lawler. Medically Reviewed. Reyna Franco, MS, RDN of American College of Lifestyle Medicine. Here are seven potential health benefits that have been linked to zinc supplements. RELATED: 8 Ways to Keep Your Immune System Healthy 2. Slows Progression of Macular Degeneration This eye disease, which tends to worsen with age, can be treated with a few key vitamins and minerals, including zinc, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Clears Up Acne Zinc contains anti-inflammatory properties and also decreases oil production, which makes it a potential candidate for fighting acne, Best says. RELATED: Everything About Acne and How to Clear It Up 7. Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking. Resources Zinc. Mount Sinai. National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. October 4, Hemilä H. Zinc Lozenges and the Common Cold: A Meta-Analysis Comparing Zinc Acetate and Zinc Gluconate, and the Role of Zinc Dosage. JRSM Open. May 2, Hemilä H et al. Zinc Acetate Lozenges May Improve the Recovery Rate of Common Cold Patients: An Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis. Open Forum Infectious Disease. April 3, Wessels I et al. The Potential Impact of Zinc Supplementation on COVID Pathogenesis. Frontiers in Immunology. July 10, Ota E et al. Zinc Supplementation for Improving Pregnancy and Infant Outcome. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. February Liu E et al. Effect of Zinc Supplementation on Growth Outcomes in Children Under 5 Years of Age. March Farooq DM et al. The Status of Zinc in Type 2 Diabetic Patients and Its Association With Glycemic Control. Journal of Family and Community Medicine. January—April Jayawardena R et al. Effects of Zinc Supplementation on Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. April 19, Because zinc reduces how much copper the body absorbs, it may help reduce levels of copper in people with Wilson's disease. Other conditions may increase the need for zinc or affect how your body absorbs or uses this mineral. Zinc from animal foods like red meat, fish, and poultry is more readily absorbed by the body than zinc from plant foods. Zinc is best absorbed when taken with a meal that contains protein. The best sources of zinc are oysters richest source , red meats, poultry, cheese ricotta, Swiss, gouda , shrimp, crab, and other shellfish. Other good, though less easily absorbed, sources of zinc include legumes especially lima beans, black-eyed peas, pinto beans, soybeans, peanuts , whole grains, miso, tofu, brewer's yeast, cooked greens, mushrooms, green beans, tahini, and pumpkin, and sunflower seeds. Zinc is available in several forms. Zinc sulfate is the least expensive form, but it is the least easily absorbed and may cause stomach upset. More easily absorbed forms of zinc are zinc picolinate, zinc citrate, zinc acetate, zinc glycerate, and zinc monomethionine. If zinc sulfate causes stomach irritation, you can try another form, such as zinc citrate. The amount of elemental zinc is listed on the product label usually 30 - 50 mg. To determine the amount to take in supplement form, remember that you get about 10 - 15 mg from food. Zinc lozenges, used for treating colds, are available in most drug stores. You should take zinc with water or juice. If zinc causes stomach upset, it can be taken with meals. Don't take zinc at the same time as iron or calcium supplements. A strong relationship exists between zinc and copper. Too much of one can cause a deficiency in the other. If you take zinc, including zinc in a multivitamin, you should also take copper. You should not take high doses of zinc for more than a few days unless your doctor tells you to. Talk to your doctor before taking more than 40 mg of zinc per day and take breaks from zinc supplementation. During those breaks, get zinc from a well-balanced diet. Because of the potential for side effects and interactions with medications, you should take dietary supplements only under the supervision of a knowledgeable health care provider. Research has shown that less than 40 mg a day is a safe amount to take over time, but researchers are not sure what happens if more is taken over a long period. Additional concerns have been raised about combining multivitamins and additional zinc supplements and an increased risk of dying from prostate cancer. Speak with physician. Taking mg of zinc daily, or taking supplemental zinc for 10 years or longer, has been linked with a doubling of the risk developing prostate cancer in men. Common side effects of zinc include stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, and a metallic taste in the mouth. High doses of zinc can cause dizziness, headache, drowsiness, increased sweating, loss of muscle coordination, alcohol intolerance, hallucinations, and anemia. Very high doses of zinc may actually weaken immune function. High doses of zinc may also lower HDL "good" cholesterol and raise LDL "bad" cholesterol. Some people who have used certain zinc nasal sprays to treat a cold have lost their sense of smell. Talk to your doctor before using a zinc nasal spray. If you are being treated with any of the following medications, you should not use zinc without first talking to your health care provider. Amiloride Midamor -- Amiloride is a potassium-sparing diuretic water pill that may increase the levels of zinc in your blood. Do not take zinc supplements if you take amiloride. Blood pressure medications, ACE Inhibitors -- A class of medications called ACE inhibitors, used to treat high blood pressure, may decrease the levels of zinc in your blood. ACE inhibitors include:. Antibiotics -- Zinc may decrease your body's absorption of two kinds of antibiotics, quinolones and tetracyclines. These include:. Cisplatin Platinol-AQ -- This drug, used for chemotherapy to treat some types of cancers, may cause more zinc to be lost in your urine. If you are undergoing chemotherapy, do not take zinc or any other supplement without talking to your oncologist. Deferoxamine Desferal -- This medication, used to remove excess iron from the blood, also increases the amount of zinc that is lost in urine. Immunosuppressant medications -- Since zinc may make the immune system stronger, it should not be taken with corticosteroids such as prednisone , cyclosporine, or other medications intended to suppress the immune system. Penicillamine -- This medication, used to treat Wilson's disease where excess copper builds up in the brain, liver, kidney, and eyes and rheumatoid arthritis, decreases the levels of zinc in your blood. Thiazide diuretics water pills -- These medications lower the amount of zinc in your blood by increasing the amount of zinc that is passed in your urine. If you take thiazide diuretics, your doctor will monitor levels of zinc and other important minerals in your blood:. Age-Related Eye Disease Study Research Group. A randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trial of high-dose supplementation with vitamins C and E, beta carotene, and zinc for age-related macular degeneration and vision loss: AREDS report no. Arch Ophthalmol. Al-Maroof RA, Al-Sharbatti SS. Serum zinc levels in diabetic patients and effect of zinc supplementation on glycemic control of type 2 diabetics. Saudi Med J. Altaf W, Perveen S, Rehman KU, et al. Zinc supplementation in oral rehydration solutions: experimental assessment and mechanisms of action. J Am Coll Nutr. Anderson RA, Roussel AM, Zouari N, Mahjoub S, Matheau JM, Kerkeni A. Potential antioxidant effects of zinc and chromium supplementation in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Arnold LE, Pinkham SM, Votolato N. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol. Basnet S, et al. A randomized controlled trial of zinc as adjuvant therapy for severe pneumonia in young children. Belongia EA, Berg R, Liu K. A randomized trial of zinc nasal spray for the treatment of upper respiratory illness in adults. Am J Med. Bilici M, Yildirim F, Kandil S, et al. Double-blind, placebo-controlled study of zinc sulfate in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry. Cai J, Nelson KC, Wu M, Sternberg P Jr, Jones DP. Oxidative damage and protection of the RPE. Prog Retin Eye Res. Caruso TJ, Prober CG, Gwaltney JM. Treatment of naturally acquired common colds with zinc: a structured review. Clin Infect Dis. Cho E, Stampfer MJ, Seddon JM, et al. Prospective study of zinc intake and the risk of age-related macular degeneration. Ann Epidemiol. Das UN. Nutritional factors in the pathobiology of human essential hypertension. Eby GA, Halcomb WW. Ineffectiveness of zinc gluconate nasal spray and zinc orotate lozenges in common-cold treatment: a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Altern Ther Health Med. Geerling BJ, Badart-Smook A, Stockbrügger RW, Brummer R-JM. Comprehensive nutritional status in recently diagnosed patients with inflammatory bowel disease compared with population controls. Eur J Clin Nutr. Godfrey HR, Godfrey NJ, Godfrey JC, Riley D. Grahn BH, Paterson PG, Gottschall-Pass KT, Zhang Z. Zinc and the eye. Hirt M, Nobel Sion, Barron E. Zinc nasal gel for the treatment of common cold symptoms: A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. ENT J. Intorre F, Polito A, Andriollo-Sanchez M, Azzini E, Raguzzini A, Toti E, et al. Effect of zinc supplementation on vitamin status of middle-aged and older European adults: the ZENITH study. Krishnadev N, Meleth AD, Chew EY. Nutritional supplements for age-related macular degeneration. Curr Opin Ophthalmol. Lawson KA, Wright ME, Subar A, et al. Multivitamin use and risk of prostate cancer in the National Institutes of Health-AARP Diet and Health Study. J Natl Cancer Inst. Lengyel I, Flinn J, Peto T, Linkous D, Cano K, Bird A, et al. High concentration of zinc in sub-retinal pigment epithelial deposits. Exp Eye Res. Meyer F, Galan P, Douville P, et al. Antioxidant vitamin and mineral supplementation and prostate cancer prevention in the SU. MAX trial. Int J Cancer. Meydani SN, Barnett JB, Dallal GE, Fine BC, Jacques PF, Leka LS, Hamer DH. Serum zinc and pneumonia in nursing home elderly. Am J Clin Nutr. Meynadier J. Efficacy and safety study of two zinc gluconate regimens in the treatment of inflammatory acne. Eur J Dermatol. |
| The 7 Best Zinc Supplements, According to a Dietitian | Financial Services. Zinc toxicity. Due to zinc's impact on immunity, many people turn to the mineral for the short term to combat common colds. A bioavailability study comparing two oral formulations containing zinc Zn bis-glycinate vs. Measure advertising performance. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Excess zinc can trigger adverse effects, including:. |
| Zinc Supplements Health Benefits and Risks | Our website uses cookies This website uses cookies to give you the very best experience. Your continued use of this site is considered permission by you to use cookies in this manner. Please review our Read More for more information about the data we collect and the types of cookies we use. Close Privacy Overview This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. Necessary Necessary. This is an necessary category. Non Necessary non-necessary. This is an non-necessary category. For more in-depth resources about vitamins, minerals, and supplements, visit our dedicated hub. Some researchers have suggested that maintaining adequate zinc levels could possibly offer some protection against COVID One review notes that zinc helps boost the immune system and maintain mucous membranes. People with zinc deficiencies appear to have a higher risk of various infections, including pneumonia. Here, find 29 myths about COVID An adequate zinc intake is especially important for children because it plays a role in their development. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, a higher intake of zinc is necessary, because newborns and infants up to 6 months obtain zinc through breast milk. Anyone with a plant-based diet may need additional zinc, because the zinc available in these foods is harder for the body to absorb. Adults aged 19 years and over who are interested in using zinc supplements should be careful to consume no more than 40 mg per day. Too much zinc can cause health problems. Zinc supplements are available to purchase online. However, consult a doctor before trying them. According to research from , there is strong evidence that low zinc levels can increase the risk of infectious diseases such as malaria , HIV , tuberculosis , measles , and pneumonia. A zinc deficiency usually results from an insufficient dietary intake, but it can also result from malabsorption and chronic illnesses such as diabetes , cancer , liver disease, and sickle cell disease. Here, learn more about zinc deficiencies. Zinc has many health benefits, but consuming too much can be harmful. Possible adverse effects include:. Over time, the NIH note, an excessive intake of — mg a day may lead to:. Zinc may also interact with antibiotics and diuretics. Zinc is essential for health, and it plays a key role in childhood development, the immune system, wound healing, and other functions. It is best to obtain zinc from foods, such as beans, seafood, and fortified products. A doctor may prescribe supplements if there is a risk of a deficiency. People who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or following a plant-based diet require extra zinc. However, as always, check with a doctor before using a supplement. Phosphorus is a mineral that is essential for human health. It is available in a wide variety of foods, including meat, fish, dairy, and some…. Zinc is an important mineral that supports a wide range of functions and systems. The body cannot store it, meaning adequate intake is vital. Find out…. Zinc deficiency can cause a person's nails to change in color and shape. Read on to learn more about how zinc deficiency can affect a person's nails. Too much zinc can be harmful and may result in symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, and headaches. Learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of…. Magnesium supplements can help support general health and well-being. Learn more here. My podcast changed me Can 'biological race' explain disparities in health? Why Parkinson's research is zooming in on the gut Tools General Health Drugs A-Z Health Hubs Health Tools Find a Doctor BMI Calculators and Charts Blood Pressure Chart: Ranges and Guide Breast Cancer: Self-Examination Guide Sleep Calculator Quizzes RA Myths vs Facts Type 2 Diabetes: Managing Blood Sugar Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction Connect About Medical News Today Who We Are Our Editorial Process Content Integrity Conscious Language Newsletters Sign Up Follow Us. Medical News Today. Health Conditions Health Products Discover Tools Connect. What are the health benefits of zinc? Medically reviewed by Femi Aremu, PharmD — By Joseph Nordqvist — Updated on October 9, How we vet brands and products Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. The amount of zinc you need each day depends on your age. Average daily recommended amounts for different ages are listed below in milligrams mg. Many foods contain zinc. You can get recommended amounts of zinc by eating a variety of foods including the following:. Zinc is also available alone or combined with calcium , magnesium , or other ingredients in dietary supplements. Dietary supplements can have several different forms of zinc, such as zinc sulfate, zinc acetate, and zinc gluconate. It's not clear whether one form is better than the others. Zinc is also found in some denture adhesive creams and over-the-counter products, including those labeled as homeopathic medications for colds. Zinc deficiency causes diarrhea , slow growth, and loss of appetite in infants and children. Infants and children who have had a zinc deficiency may have reproductive problems when they become adults. In older children, zinc deficiency also causes hair loss and frequent infections. Zinc deficiency at any age can cause a loss of taste and smell. In older adults, zinc deficiency can delay wound healing and cause problems with thinking, reasoning, and memory. In lower income countries, zinc deficiency during pregnancy can cause premature births and other complications. Babies may have low weight at birth and a higher risk of death. Many of these symptoms can be signs of problems other than a zinc deficiency. If you have any of these symptoms, your health care provider can help determine if you might have a zinc deficiency. Scientists are studying zinc to better understand how it affects health. Here are several examples of what research on zinc has shown. Some studies suggest that zinc lozenges or zinc syrup speeds recovery from the common cold if you start taking them at the start of a cold. However, these products don't seem to affect the severity of cold symptoms. More study is needed to determine the best dose and form of zinc for the common cold as well as how often and how long it should be taken. Some studies in lower income countries show that zinc supplements lower the risk of pneumonia in young children. Zinc doesn't seem to speed recovery or reduce the number of deaths from pneumonia. Many people with HIV have low zinc levels. This occurs because they have trouble absorbing zinc from food. They also often have diarrhea, which increases zinc loss. |
| Zinc: Everything You Need to Know | Zinc also helps wounds heal and is important for the proper sense of taste. The amount of zinc you need each day depends on your age. Average daily recommended amounts for different ages are listed below in milligrams mg. Many foods contain zinc. You can get recommended amounts of zinc by eating a variety of foods including the following:. Zinc is also available alone or combined with calcium , magnesium , or other ingredients in dietary supplements. Dietary supplements can have several different forms of zinc, such as zinc sulfate, zinc acetate, and zinc gluconate. It's not clear whether one form is better than the others. Zinc is also found in some denture adhesive creams and over-the-counter products, including those labeled as homeopathic medications for colds. Zinc deficiency causes diarrhea , slow growth, and loss of appetite in infants and children. Infants and children who have had a zinc deficiency may have reproductive problems when they become adults. In older children, zinc deficiency also causes hair loss and frequent infections. Zinc deficiency at any age can cause a loss of taste and smell. In older adults, zinc deficiency can delay wound healing and cause problems with thinking, reasoning, and memory. In lower income countries, zinc deficiency during pregnancy can cause premature births and other complications. Babies may have low weight at birth and a higher risk of death. Many of these symptoms can be signs of problems other than a zinc deficiency. If you have any of these symptoms, your health care provider can help determine if you might have a zinc deficiency. Scientists are studying zinc to better understand how it affects health. Here are several examples of what research on zinc has shown. Some studies suggest that zinc lozenges or zinc syrup speeds recovery from the common cold if you start taking them at the start of a cold. However, these products don't seem to affect the severity of cold symptoms. More study is needed to determine the best dose and form of zinc for the common cold as well as how often and how long it should be taken. Some studies in lower income countries show that zinc supplements lower the risk of pneumonia in young children. Zinc doesn't seem to speed recovery or reduce the number of deaths from pneumonia. Many people with HIV have low zinc levels. This occurs because they have trouble absorbing zinc from food. They also often have diarrhea, which increases zinc loss. Some studies show that supplemental zinc decreases diarrhea and complications of HIV, but other studies do not show this. Zinc supplements do not appear to reduce the risk of death in people with HIV. More research is needed to determine whether zinc supplements might help people with HIV. Children in developing countries often die from diarrhea. Studies show that zinc supplements help reduce the duration of diarrhea in these children, many of whom are zinc deficient or otherwise malnourished. Age-related macular degeneration AMD is an eye disease that gradually causes vision loss. In large studies among older people with AMD who were at high risk of developing advanced AMD, those who took daily dietary supplements with zinc and other ingredients for 5 years had a lower risk of developing advanced AMD than those who did not take the supplements. The ingredients in the supplements were: 80 mg zinc plus vitamin E , vitamin C , copper , and either beta-carotene or lutein and zeaxanthin. People who have or are developing AMD should talk with their doctor about taking a dietary supplement called AREDS or AREDS2. People with type 2 diabetes often have low zinc levels. Some research shows that zinc supplements might help lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels. However, more research is needed to learn if zinc might be recommended for people with type 2 diabetes. Yes, too much zinc can be harmful. People with acne tend to have lower levels of zinc. Therefore, supplements may help reduce symptoms Zinc decreases oxidative stress and reduces levels of certain inflammatory proteins in your body Oxidative stress leads to chronic inflammation, a contributing factor in a wide array of chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, cancer , and mental decline In a study in 40 older adults, those who took 45 mg of zinc per day experienced greater reductions in inflammatory markers than a placebo group Zinc may effectively reduce inflammation, boost immune health, reduce your risk of age-related diseases, speed wound healing, and improve acne symptoms. Symptoms of severe zinc deficiency include impaired growth and development, delayed sexual maturity, skin rashes, chronic diarrhea, impaired wound healing, and behavioral issues Milder forms of zinc deficiency are more common, especially in children in developing countries where diets are often lacking in important nutrients. It is estimated that around 2 billion people worldwide are deficient in zinc due to inadequate dietary intake 7. Since zinc deficiency impairs your immune system — increasing the chances of infection — zinc deficiency is thought to cause over , deaths in children under 5 every year Those at risk of zinc deficiency include 27 :. Symptoms of mild zinc deficiency include diarrhea, decreased immunity, thinning hair, impaired taste or smell, dry skin, fertility issues, and impaired wound healing 7 , Thus, you may still be deficient even if tests indicate normal levels. Doctors consider other risk factors — such as poor dietary intake and genetics — alongside blood results when determining whether you need supplements Risk factors for zinc deficiency include insufficient dietary intake, poor absorption, alcoholism, genetic mutations, and old age. Many animal and plant foods are naturally rich in zinc, making it easy for most people to consume adequate amounts. Foods highest in zinc include 30 :. Animal products, such as meat and shellfish, contain high amounts of zinc in a form that your body easily absorbs. Keep in mind that zinc found in plant-based sources like legumes and whole grains is absorbed less efficiently because of other plant compounds that inhibit absorption While many foods are naturally high in zinc, certain foods — such as ready-to-eat breakfast cereals and snack bars — are fortified with zinc Zinc occurs naturally in foods like shellfish, meat, poultry, and dairy, and is added to other foods, such as breakfast cereals and snack bars. Just as a deficiency in zinc can cause health complications, excessive intake can also lead to negative side effects. The most common cause of zinc toxicity is too much supplemental zinc, which can cause both acute and chronic symptoms Symptoms of toxicity include 33 :. For example, chronic high zinc ingestion can interfere with your absorption of copper and iron. Reductions in copper levels have even been reported in people consuming only moderately high doses of zinc — 60 mg per day — for 10 weeks In order to avoid overconsumption, stay away from high dose zinc supplements unless recommended by a doctor. The Recommended Dietary Allowance RDA is 11 mg for adult males and 8 mg for adult females 1. People who are pregnant and breastfeeding should consume 11 and 12 mg per day, respectively Unless a medical condition is hindering absorption, you should easily reach the RDA for zinc through diet alone. However, people with certain dietary restrictions, including vegans and vegetarians, may have difficulty meeting their needs through diet alone 1. The tolerable upper level for zinc is 40 mg per day. However, this does not apply to people with zinc deficiencies, who may need to take high dose supplements 1. If you take supplements , choose absorbable forms such as zinc citrate or zinc gluconate rather than zinc oxide, which is poorly absorbed Zinc toxicity may cause diarrhea, headache, abdominal cramps, and reduced immunity. Most people can obtain their daily dose of zinc through diet alone. Zinc is needed for DNA synthesis, immune function, metabolism , and growth. Most people meet the RDA of 11 mg for males and 8 mg for females through diet , but older adults, those following restrictive diets, and people with conditions that inhibit zinc absorption may need to supplement. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Learn about the symptoms of zinc deficiency and how to treat it. Zinc is absolutely essential for good health, but consuming too much can have several side effects. Here are 7 signs and symptoms of zinc overdose. Zinc is one of the most widely studied forms of acne treatment. MindBodyGreen provides third-party-tested supplements made with high quality ingredients. Our testers and dietitians discuss whether MindBodyGreen…. Vitamins are for athletes to stay healthy. You may get all you need from the food you eat. Some athletes may benefits from vitamin supplements. Docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, is a type of omega-3 fat that may improve many aspects of your health, from your brain to your heart. Here are 12…. Vitamins are what your body needs to function and stay healthy. It's possible to get all the vitamins you need from the food you eat, but supplements…. A Quiz for Teens Are You a Workaholic? How Well Do You Sleep? Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. |
| What Are the Potential Benefits of Zinc Supplements? | Zinc is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent: Its role in human health. Symptoms of zinc deficiency include hair loss, diarrhea, eye and skin sores and loss of appetite. Zinc levels also fluctuate in response to other factors, including infections, changes in steroid hormones, and muscle catabolism during weight loss or illness [ 1 , 3 ]. Medical News Today. Show references 5 Tips: Natural products for the flu and colds: What does the science say? Eur J Dermatol. In fact, zinc is the second-most abundant trace mineral in your body — after iron — and is present in every cell 3. |
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7 Top Supplements That REALLY WorkZinc supplements -
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Sections Description and Brand Names Before Using Proper Use Precautions Side Effects. Products and services. Description and Brand Names Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex ® US Brand Name Galzin M2 Zinc 50 Orazinc Orazinc Zinc Zinc Chelated Zn Plus Protein Canadian Brand Name Prostavan Descriptions Zinc supplements are used to prevent or treat zinc deficiency.
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I've taken public transit in New York City, played in numerous tournaments and so on. Other friends and family members have gotten sick many times over the past year that have been in the same situations I've been in, and yet I have not gotten sick.
I feel like Zinc has truly changed my body's ability to fight off infection and I only hope it continues to work for me. We encourage our readers to share their unique experiences to create a helpful and informative community here on Healthline.
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VIEW ALL HISTORY. This article is based on scientific evidence, written by experts and fact checked by experts. Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strive to be objective, unbiased, honest and to present both sides of the argument. This article contains scientific references.
The numbers in the parentheses 1, 2, 3 are clickable links to peer-reviewed scientific papers. Minerals can be found in a variety of foods, but some foods are especially abundant in these important nutrients. Here are 16 foods that are rich in….
Your body requires many minerals to function properly. Zinc is absolutely essential for good health, but consuming too much can have several side effects. Here are 7 signs and symptoms of zinc overdose. Discover some vitamins for weight loss and some minerals too ….
Zinc is one of the most widely studied forms of acne treatment. Mineral water is bottled at its source and can be high in several essential minerals.
This article explains everything you need to know about mineral…. Acne surfaces during times of hormonal imbalance. Some seek natural treatments such oral vitamin and mineral supplements. Learn which natural remedies….
Iron is an important mineral that your body needs to make hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen throughout your body. Chromium supplements are most recognized for their ability to improve the action of natural insulin.
But there are other uses, as well as precautions…. A Quiz for Teens Are You a Workaholic? How Well Do You Sleep? Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Nutrition Evidence Based Zinc Supplements: Benefits, Dosage, and Side Effects.
Medically reviewed by Grant Tinsley, Ph. Potential uses and benefits. Types of zinc supplements. Safety and side effects. The bottom line. Just one thing Try this today: In addition to using zinc supplements, you can also increase your intake naturally by adding more zinc-rich foods to your diet.
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We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy. Feb 14, Written By Rachael Ajmera, MS, RD. Jan 18, Medically Reviewed By Grant Tinsley, Ph. Share this article. Evidence Based This article is based on scientific evidence, written by experts and fact checked by experts.
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Zinc is Zlnc essential Vegan-friendly gluten-free products found in a variety sypplements plant and Zihc foods, along with supplements. It plays a key role in Zinc supplements health, immune function, and cell ssupplements and Low-sugar substitutes for recipes protect against acne, Vegan-friendly gluten-free products, and other conditions. This article explains everything you need to know about zinc, including its functions, health benefits, dosage recommendations, and potential side effects. Zinc is required for numerous processes in your body, including 1 :. Because of its role in immune function, zinc is likewise added to some lozenges and other natural cold treatments 2. Zinc is an essential mineral that your body does not make on its own.
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