Zinc Supplement - Analysis and Buying Guide - 2022
Maybe your doctor has recommended an over-the-counter zinc supplement, or maybe you're looking for a way to prevent the common cold. While the body only needs trace amounts of zinc, the mineral activates over a hundred enzymes in the body and benefits the immune system.
A well-balanced diet should provide adequate zinc, but there are circumstances where you may need a supplement. Certain populations, conditions, and diseases can cause zinc deficiency, which can cause slow growth rate in children or weight loss in adults, as well as increased susceptibility to disease.
Your doctor might recommend a specific type of zinc supplement. If not, zinc comes in many different forms, giving you plenty of options. Some forms are more easily absorbed by the body, while others work better under certain circumstances. As you consider your specific situation and needs, you'll have a better idea of the supplement that's right for you.
At Real Indian, we're here to help you find the products you need. Our team does deep research to bring you information and reviews of the products we think are the best of the best. We've provided this buying guide as an overview of zinc supplements, including the important questions you'll need to ask yourself and what options are available to you.
Types of Zinc Supplements
- Zinc Acetate :
Zinc acetate, sometimes called zinc salt dihydrate or zinc diacetate, results from a reaction between zinc oxide and acetic acid. This form of zinc is often used to reduce the duration of the common cold. Zinc acetate can be in pill or capsule form. The capsules are used to treat Wilson's disease (accumulation of copper in the liver and other organs) and are only available with a prescription.
- Zinc Sulfate :
Zinc sulfate is water soluble and easily absorbed by the body, but it is not the best form of zinc for increasing zinc levels.
- Zinc Picolinate :
Zinc picolinate is one of the most easily absorbed forms of zinc, making it a common supplement for pregnant women and those who may be zinc deficient. In this form, zinc is chelated, or bound, to picolinic amino acids to help it more easily pass through the membranes of your intestines and into your body's cells.
- Zinc Monomethionine :
Zinc monomethionine, which is a mouthful, is another chelated form of zinc. This time, zinc is bound to one of the most easily absorbed amino acids, methionine. Like many of the other forms of zinc, it is used in lozenge form to prevent colds or treat a zinc deficiency.
- Zinc Gluconate :
Zinc gluconate, sometimes called Orazinc in OTC supplements, is the zinc salt form of gluconic acid. This popular form is quickly absorbed into the body and is ready to use in a relatively short time. It is often used in nasal sprays instead of supplements, but is found in some formulations.
- Zinc Glycinate :
Zinc is chelated with the amino acid glycine to make zinc glycinate. This form of zinc is often used in conjunction with plant compounds called bioflavonoids to reduce pain and swelling associated with osteoarthritis. This combination is usually prescribed and controlled by a doctor.
- Zinc Orotate :
This chelated form of zinc combines zinc with orotic acid to increase the rate of absorption.
- Zinc Citrate :
Zinc citrate combines zinc and citric acid. It comes in capsule form and is one of the most easily absorbed forms of zinc. Some people find that zinc citrate, more than other forms, tends to leave a metallic taste in the mouth. However, it disappears after a short time.
Zinc Supplement Factors to Consider
- Purpose
Your reason for taking a zinc supplement can help determine which form you need.
- Disease :
People with certain diseases such as diabetes, malabsorption syndrome, chronic liver disease, or sickle cell anemia may not absorb enough zinc and therefore will need something like zinc picolinate that is easily absorbed into the body. However, you should always discuss and follow the advice of your doctor, who may recommend another form of zinc or even a multivitamin.
- Vegetarian/Vegetarian :
Vegetarians can also be deficient in zinc because bioavailable zinc is often found in meat. Zinc supplements can be used in conjunction with certain food preparation techniques that increase the bioavailability of zinc found in beans, grains, and seeds. Together, they should be able to get the zinc they need for optimal health.
- Absorption Rate
Zinc acetate, zinc picolinate, and zinc citrate are the three most easily absorbed forms of zinc. Of these three, zinc picolinate usually comes out on top, but there could be unique circumstances that make one of the other forms more effective. If your doctor has specifically directed you to use a certain form of zinc, follow those instructions.
FAQ
Que. I don't see zinc oxide on your list. Can I take it as a supplement?
Ans. Zinc oxide is used in sunscreens to absorb both the sun's harmful UVA and UVB rays. However, this form of zinc is for topical use, which means that it should not be ingested.
Que. Can zinc interact with other medications?
Ans. Like all supplements and medications, zinc can interact with other medications you are taking. It can reduce the effectiveness of some antibiotics and drugs used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. On the other hand, your zinc levels can also be affected by prescription and over-the-counter medications. For example, diuretics can cause less zinc to be absorbed from the intestines. That's why it's important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist before supplementing your diet with zinc.
Que. What does zinc do?
Ans. Zinc participates in cell metabolism and in the immune system. It helps build and activate T cells, which the body uses to fight germs and infections. Consequently, a zinc deficiency can lead to a weakening of the immune system. Zinc is also used to create and maintain new cells, DNA synthesis, and cell division. Ulcers and wounds that do not heal are often associated with zinc deficiency.