What it does: Zinc plays a vital role in immune defense, supports wound healing, enables DNA and protein synthesis, and helps maintain taste and smell.
How it is used: Zinc is frequently used in supplements to support immune function, assist in skin healing, aid recovery from minor illnesses, and help correct deficiencies.
Natural sources and supplement forms: Zinc is naturally present in oysters, red meat, poultry, beans, seeds, nuts, and whole grains. Supplements commonly use forms such as zinc gluconate, zinc picolinate, zinc citrate, and zinc sulfate, available in tablets, capsules, and lozenges.
Why it appears in supplement formulas: Zinc is included to help maintain healthy immunity, promote tissue repair, and address increased needs or insufficient intake from food.
What to know before use: Excess zinc can cause stomach upset and may interfere with copper absorption, so long-term use or high doses should be monitored by a healthcare provider.
Interesting Fact
Oysters: Nature’s Top Source of Zinc
Zinc is widely found in foods, but oysters pack more zinc per serving than any other food—just two oysters can provide over 100% of your daily requirement. This trace mineral has roles in over 300 enzyme reactions in the body, making it vital for everything from supporting taste and smell to cell growth and repair.
