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Strong evidenceMinerals

Zinc

Also called: Zinc picolinate, citrate, bisglycinate, gluconate

A mineral for immunity, skin healing and taste. Vegetarian diets high in phytates can leave people short.

Typical amount
8–15 mg a day (RDA 13–17 mg)
Best time
With lunch or dinner · Timing guide
Food
With food
Typical course
12 weeks, then review
Upper limit
40 mg a day total
Is it right for me?

Where to buy

3 products
Also inside 15 other products (combinations and multivitamins)

What is zinc?

Zinc is needed by immune cells, for wound healing, skin and hair, and for taste and smell. Grains and pulses contain phytates that reduce zinc absorption, so vegetarians may need more. Long-term high doses can cause copper deficiency.

Forms. Picolinate, citrate and bisglycinate absorb well; gluconate is common in lozenges. Often combined with vitamin C.

What it may help with

Evidence grade

Strong: several good human trials. Moderate: some trials, mixed results. Limited: small or early studies. Traditional: long use, little trial evidence.

Safety and interactions

Side effects
Nausea on an empty stomach and a metallic taste. More than 40 mg a day long-term can lower copper.
Who should be careful
Long-term high doses lower copper
Spacing
2 h apart from iron and calcium
Medicines
Keep it 4 hours apart from thyroid medicine. Keep it 3 hours apart from antibiotics.
Stop and call a doctor if
Persistent nausea, metallic taste with vomiting

Food sources

Pumpkin seeds, cashews, chana, dals, whole grains, dairy, eggs and meat. Soaking or sprouting pulses improves absorption.

Common questions

When should I take zinc?

With lunch or dinner, to avoid nausea.

Can I take zinc with iron?

Keep them 2 hours apart, because they compete for absorption.

How much is too much?

Keep your total from all supplements under 40 mg a day.

Sources

For information only, not medical advice. Prices and links are checked by hand and can change; we may earn a small commission on some links. This plan is based on your answers and is not a medical diagnosis. It does not replace advice from your doctor. If you take medicines or have a health condition, check with your doctor before starting any supplement.