Zinc Basics
Zinc is the second-most-abundantly distributed trace mineral inside the body after iron and is an essential nutrient, which means we are unable to produce or store it, so it must be supplied daily via diet and/or supplementation. Every cell of the body contains Zinc, which works with more than 100 enzymes in order to perform vital chemical reactions.
Zinc can be found in many foods, including meats, poultry and seafood. It is also present in legumes and grains. There are many different forms of zinc supplements, including multivitamins and minerals blends or immune boosting formulas. What’s the best zinc supplement? Continue reading…
Zinc in Different Forms
Zinc supplements come in a variety of forms, including gluconate citrate picolinate and bisglycinate. The main difference between the forms is how much elemental zinc each one contains. It is important to know this because the goal of taking a mineral is to absorb as much elemental zinc from fewer capsules.
Zinc Bisglycinate: In this form the zinc has been subjected to a chelation process, i.e. An organic molecule has been charged with an electrical charge that allows it to attract positively the mineral (in this instance zinc). The concentration of zinc in the molecule increases. Bisglycinate is well tolerated, well absorbed and is said to be absorbed intact. It does not compete for absorption with other minerals in the intestine. It is for this reason that zinc bisglycinate tends to be the most preferred form of zinc.
Zinc Citrate: Zinc citrate can be produced as a dihydrate or trihydrate by neutralizing citric with a zinc source that is highly purified, followed by precipitation and dehydration. This results in a low-molecular-weight, water-soluble compound with a high zinc concentration and is well-absorbed. Zinc citrate, a form of zinc that is bioavailable and contains approximately 34% elemental Zinc by weight, is a good option.
Zinc Gluconate is a zinc salt that is used to make nasal sprays, nasal lozenges and cold blends. Zinc gluconate, also known as gluconic zinc acid, is an ionic substance. This ionic zinc compound is made up of two anions per zinc cation. Some studies suggest that zinc is better absorbed when it’s in gluconate, but other studies disprove this.
Zinc Picolinate is the most easily absorbed form of zinc. The absorption of Zinc in the body involves a complex procedure that involves the mineral traveling through the intestinal walls into the bloodstream, and then being delivered to individual cells. After four weeks, zinc levels were higher in hair, skin and urine of those who took zinc citrate or zinc gluconate.
Zinc in different forms
Zinc can be purchased as a separate supplement, in the form of tablets and capsules. It is also available in nasal sprays and lozenges.
Zinc capsules – These are a popular choice, as they are easy to swallow and can hide unpleasant textures or tastes. These capsules are smaller and easier to take than tablets. This is perfect for people who have difficulty swallowing.
Zinc Liquids: Liquid supplements can be taken by people who do not like to swallow tablets or capsules. They may also absorb more fully inside the body, making them ideal for increasing zinc levels in blood.
Zinc lozenges are most effective when taken to boost the immune system. The mineral stays in the throat, where it can come into contact with viruses and prevent their replication. Lozenges are also ideal for people who suffer from pill fatigue.
Zinc Tablets: The biggest advantage is that tablets are cheaper than capsules. They also contain more active ingredients. It’s important to remember that tablets may not be absorbed as quickly as capsules, and they could also have a poor disintegration in the GI system.
Final Thoughts
Zinc supplements are not one size fits all. It depends on the reason you are taking zinc and how much is needed. Some forms of zinc are better absorbed than others. It’s a matter of personal choice and convenience.
