Best Zinc Supplements Reviewed & Compared
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Zinc is an incredible supplement that can really benefit your body in so many ways. For example, it has been linked with reversing the effects of heart disease, fighting the damage caused by free radicals, balancing out hormones, and offering powerful immune support, as well as supporting eye health and other daily functions in our body.
Zinc supplements are high in protein, such as animal products, dairy, grains, and legumes. If you have a stricter diet or have certain digestive issues then it can be difficult to get zinc into your body, so a supplement is the best way to go in order to ensure that your body’s health is at it’s optimum levels.
Our top 3 Picks
- Now Foods Zinc
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Our rating - 250 servings
- Price: See Here
- Zand Zinc
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Our rating - Health Boost
- Price: See Here
- Jarrow Formulas Zinc
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Our rating - Gluten Free
- Price: See Here
10 Best Zinc Supplements
1. Now Foods
The suggested serving size is one tablet once per day, which gives you 250 servings of the tablets, the best value for money on this list. These are also one of the more potent options for zinc supplements on this list, easily winning the top spot.
These tablets are free from preservatives and additives, ensuring you a pure supplement without any risks.
- Immune support
- Enzyme support
- Suitable for vegetarians and vegans
- Not suitable for those with a sensitive stomach
2. Zand Herbalozenge
These are a health food lozenge that can be used as an added health boost or as a symptom alleviator, making them a versatile supplement for every day use.
Each serving size is one lozenge, which can be taken up to eight times per day in times of throat pain. There are around 15 servings in each package, which is not as many as other options on this list, but is still incredible value for money.
If you are looking for a healthier throat lozenge for the cold and flu season, or simply an easy to take health supplement, then this is an excellent option.
- Dissolves in your mouth
- Sweetened with brown rice syrup
- Great for a sore throat
- The zinc dosage is low
3. Jarrow Formulas
The main draw back is that they are not vegetarian, as the tablet is formed with gelatine, and this is an issue for vegetarians and vegans who follow a much stricter dietary regime. However, they are free from many other allergens, such as wheat and gluten, so they are suitable for more sensitive digestive systems.
If you are looking for a low maintenance zinc supplement then the Jarrow Formulas Zinc Balance supplement is an excellent option for you to add to your diet for the best results.
- Boosts immune system
- Powerful antioxidant protection
- Only 1 tablet per day
- May contain gelatin
4. Nature’s Way Lozenges Wild Berry
Completely vegetarian and vegan friendly, which is great for those who follow a much stricter dietary regime. However, they are not free from gluten, which is a draw back for those who suffer from gluten intolerance or coeliac disease.
With only 60 lozenges in one container, they are not as high a monetary value as some others on this list, however still an excellent option for those who struggle taking capsule and tablet formed supplements.
- Dissolves easily in your mouth
- Vegetarian and vegan friendly
- Quality ingredients
- Only 60 lozenges in one container
5. Solgar
The suggested use is one tablet once per day, which is a much more easily maintained dosage than many other options on this list, and gives you 100 days worth of supplement, which Is excellent value for money.
If you are looking for a low maintenance zinc supplement that still offers all the benefits of a highly potent option, then the Solgar Zinc Picolinate is a definite option to consider.
- Vegetarian and cosher friendly
- Supports immnune health
- Eye health
- The tablets are powdery
6. Nature Made
- Supports bone health
- Supports teeth health
- Boosts immune system
- Not suitable for vegetarians and vegans
7. Thorne Research Double Strength
The suggested dosage is one capsule between once or twice a day for the best results, giving you around 60 servings in each container, which is a excellent value for money when it comes to a more potent supplement.
- Easily absorbent
- High potency
- Free of preservatives
- Those are are sensitive to Aspartic Acid should use it with caution
8. Eidon Mineral Supplements
- Liquid form
- Supports cellular metabolism
- Boosts immune health
- Suitable for vegetarians and vegans
- None
9. Garden of Life Vitamin Code
This brand supports the health of skin, eyes, DNA synthesis, as well as supporting the immune system, giving you a whole range of benefits from taking only two zinc capsules each day. This gives you 30 servings in each container, which is great value for money for those who want a sustainable boost to their health.
If you have a higher range of dietary requirements, but still want an added health boost, then this product are definitely a supplement to consider.
- Contains live probiotics and enzymes
- Contains vitamin C
- Suitable for vegetarians and vegans
- Contains phytic acid which can inhibit the absorption of zinc
10. Nature’s Bounty
The recommended dosage is one capsule between one and three times daily, so you can tailor your dosage to your specific needs, and increase the dosage if you feel you need to.
They are fully vegetarian and vegan friendly, and free from many other allergens, so a great choice for those with stricter dietary requirements. With 100 capsules in each carton, this option is also great value for money for those who want a simple health boost without breaking the bank.
- Reduces the symptoms of bone disease
- Promotes bone and muscle health
- Suitable for vegetarians and vegans
- Big tablets
Zinc Benefits
There are certain elements in the body that are required in very small quantities for human benefit. These elements are known as “trace elements” and consist of iron, iodine, fluoride, copper, zinc, chromium, selenium, manganese and molybdenum. This article covers the trace element Zinc in detail and will mention the various benefits of this component.
So how can zinc supplements benefit you?
Improves strength and lean muscle mass
An aspect of zinc that makes it famous in the athletic community is its important benefit when it comes to lean muscle mass. Latest studies have indicated that zinc increases the levels of three very important hormones in the body, an important one in particular known as testosterone. Lower levels of testosterone affect the body when it comes to attributes like body fat percentage, recover and even strength. Studies have shown that athletes who were on zinc supplements as they worked out, showed increased levels of testosterone which over all helped these athletes with their workout regimen and over all muscle mass.
Increased Immune functions
Another aspect that not only helps the athletic community but almost all people is the improvement in immune function. It is well known that athletes who push themselves when working out or even regular training tend to have an effect on their immune systems and usually need to take supplements or take extra precautions when it comes to fighting off sickness. Studies have shown that with the presence of zinc in the body, not only was there better immune function but also better recover periods. Even patients who are sick have benefited from healthy levels of zinc in the body because of its effects on the immune system.
Antioxidant activity
Various articles on this website have covered the importance of antioxidant components for the human body. Another addition to this list consists of zinc. Zinc has been known to be an incredibly powerful antioxidant as it helps reduce free radicals in the body. Interestingly, healthy levels of zinc have also help deter from the harmful effects of elevated levels of iron. In particular, even athletes have benefit from this aspect as the removal of free radicals helps athletes and body builders recover more effectively.
Skin care
An aspect that not many people tend to know about is the amazing effect of zinc on the skin. Zinc plays a major role when it comes to collagen synthesis which is a known ingredient in products for beautiful skin. It also lends a helping hand in controlling oil production which improves the overall look of the skin. Moreover, it is also a known remedy for the cure of acne or even pimples. Patients who are recovering from burns or even surgical incisions have seen improvement in skin repair and regrowth of skin cells with the administration of zinc as it reduces the evidence of scars.
Diabetic care
Zinc plays an important role in the balancing of the hormone, insulin, which regulates the blood sugar. Levels of zinc in the body play a crucial role as they bind to insulin so that it can be adequately stored in the pancreas and released when blood sugar is high. In the end, zinc and proper pancreatic function is considered to have an anti-diabetic effect.
Important element for couples trying to get pregnant and pregnant women.
It is known that zinc is important for the proper function and even repair of DNA. It helps build crucial parts of the cell which makes it a crucial element during pregnancy to ensure the proper growth of the fetus. Zinc also aids in the development of sex organs while also assisting women in lactation. Interestingly, couples who are trying to get pregnant also benefit from levels of zinc in the body. Zinc provides sperm a boost of energy when they enter the female and also form the essential part of enzymes that allow sperm to penetrate the female egg.
Treatment of the common cold
Along with vitamin C, zinc is also a known treatment when it comes down to the common cold. A famous ingredient in most lozenges, studies have shown that zinc shortened the duration of the common cold while also reducing the severity when taken as soon as the symptoms start.
Usage Recommendations
Zinc is required in very small quantities by the human body, despite the vast and important functions it partakes it. It is a good idea to get tested for your zinc levels before starting with a supplement. Consulting your doctor or pharmacist will help with just how much zinc you need to take. There are however, recommended levels to be consumed depending on your age and sex.
Children between the ages of 3-13 are recommended about 3mg-8mg a day accordingly as the age increases. Males above the age of 14 are recommended 11mg a day while females 14-18yrs should consume about 9mg/day. Females 19 and over though can reduce the dosage to 8mg/day. Doses for pregnant females must be adjust by a doctor.
Zinc supplements should be taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. There may be a possibility of these supplements causing an upset stomach in which case they can be taken with a meal. If you do experience an upset stomach, it is best to consult your doctor. Zinc supplements can be taken along with vitamin C supplements.
Some Precautions and General Information
Precautions
When it comes down to supplements majority are considered safe even in slightly large quantities. Taking zinc into consideration alone, it is a trace element and is required by the body in “trace” quantities. It is for this reason that one should consult a doctor before starting supplements. As mentioned above, zinc supplements should be taken on an empty stomach, which is the general precaution for these supplements. Another major precaution for zinc is that it has a tendency to react. For those people who are on multiple vitamins, they should note that zinc should NOT be taken with iron or calcium supplements as it is a known interaction.
While it is generally safe to use, it is always a real possibility for people to experience side effects. Some of the common side effects experienced when zinc supplements are consumed consist of: symptoms connected to asthma, blood disorders, iron deficiencies, skin pigmentation issues, changes in taste, feeling bloated, cholesterol level change, diarrhea and constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth or nose, fatigue, headache, hormone changes, mouth ulcers, nausea, stomach cramps and vomiting.
General Information
There are many brands of zinc supplements to choose from. A general guideline when picking supplements is to look for characteristics that suit your need. Please consult our criteria for evaluation to see why our recommendations are the best!
Despite that fact that zinc is required by the body in “trace” quantities and supplements are available, one should always include foods in their diet that carry levels of zinc. Foods like lamb, beef, chickpeas, cashews, pumpkin seeds, yogurt, chicken, turkey, eggs, mushrooms, salmon and cocoa powder carry significant levels of zinc. It may be easy to notice that zinc is available in foods that are accepted generally by non-vegetarians. There are foods that can be consumed by vegetarians as well that consist of baked beans, wild rice, green peas, pecans and even peanuts. Due to dietary restrictions, it is possible for vegetarians and vegans to suffer from zinc deficiency. Hence, if you are planning to options for a vegetarian life style or already have vegetarian or vegan food consumption, a doctor’s visit is recommended.
Criteria for Evaluation
With the availability of an online platform where we recommend hundreds of products, we can great responsibility to bring only the best to you. It is with 100% seriousness and thorough research that we bring to you products pertaining to each category. Only when these product pass our criteria for evaluation is when they are entered into the top 10 list. What criteria we take into consideration to evaluate a particular product? Find out below.
Product Testing
There are hundreds of products available and not all can be tested, however, we do streamline products that make claims etc. This process is known as the basic phase where products are individually tested to gauge the effectiveness of a product and how meticulously the claims of these brands are proven. In simpler words, when a particular brand like Nature’s Bounty claims that their zinc supplements are suitable for vegetarian and vegan consumption while brands like Jarrow Formulas claim to have powerful antioxidant action. We put the effort and time into conducting research to find out if the claims are correct.
User Ratings
This is the main aspect of the evaluation criteria. Human bodies are formed in such a way that no two bodies react to a certain product the same way. However, thanks to statistical analysis it is easier to visualize a statistical trend for products. The more number of people that use the product, the easier it is to assume if the product fares will for people. We test this aspect by putting a lot of time into researching people’s reviews of each product. With the countless number of products available online and offline, this can be quite a hefty job and we do it for you. It is after this that we are able to formulate the top 10 list.
Side Effects
When talking about supplements, most products are safe and there is always a margin of safety even in larger doses. However, as each body reacts to various products differently, it is always possible for an experience to go south. Even if the team ensures that we recommend products that are safe and are least harmful, there is always a possibility to experience allergies or other side effects of supplements. Even relatively safe products like zinc supplements can induce symptoms connected to asthma, blood disorders, iron level change, skin pigmentation change, different taste, bloating, cholesterol level change, diarrhea and constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth or nose, fatigue, headache, hormone changes, mouth ulcers, nausea, stomach cramps and vomiting.
Manufacturers Reputation
One wonders why a manufacturer’s reputation would matter when it comes down to buying supplements but it really is an essential part. Various websites highlight products on their pages without any background information or research which can be quite dangerous. Here, we look out for those brands that take care of health issues and their customers before anything thing else. It is only then that they are allowed on this list. Brands like Now Foods, Zand, Jarrow Formulas Nature’s Way, Solgar, Nature Made, Thorne Research, Garden of Life, Nature’s Bounty are some trusted brands that sell quality products.
Product Safety
While most supplements are safe, some products may lead to side effects or allergic effects towards users that may not be anticipated. We generally recommend products with good track records when it comes to safety of the product.
Ingredient Effectiveness
Zinc is an important trace element that is important and safe for the body when consumed in safe, recommended levels. Most products available have fiber as the most important ingredient but depending on the dose formula, tablets, capsule, liquid concentrate, the other accompanying ingredients vary. There ingredients help with the stability and preservation of the product and are good for consumption. Also, ingredients that lend flavor to products are also part of the formulation and depend entirely on the brand and taste. Please view the provided link under product reviews to view all the product ingredients
FAQs
Q) In what forms are zinc supplements available?
Like all supplements, there are various forms in which zinc supplements are available. Depending on what you want to use them for or ease of use, that form of dosage should be taken. Most commonly, zinc can be found as tablets, lozenges, capsules and liquid concentrate (to be taken as drops). Zinc is also available in cream form for people who need to apply it topically.
Q) Who should take these supplements?
Zinc supplements have a host of benefits and hence can be consumed by various people. Please see the “benefits of zinc” sections above. Other than that, people who have dietary restrictions should seriously consider zinc supplements as their diet may not provide enough quantities for proper body function.
Q) Where can I naturally get zinc from?
Foods like lamb, beef, chickpeas, cashews, pumpkin seeds, yogurt, chicken, turkey, eggs, mushrooms, salmon and cocoa powder carry significant levels of zinc. There are foods that can be consumed by vegetarians as well that consist of baked beans, wild rice, green peas, pecans and even peanuts.
Q) Which zinc supplements should I take?
There are hundreds of products available and choosing amongst them can be a daunting task. With the different types of fiber supplements to choose from, one should target their specific area of need and then pick accordingly. Some of the products we recommend are: Now Foods Zinc, Zand Elderberry Zinc Herbalozenge, Jarrow Formulas Zinc Balance, Nature’s Way Zinc Lozenges Wild Berry, Solgar Zinc Picolinate, Nature Made Calcium Magnesium Zinc, Thorne Research Double Strength Zinc Pocolinate, Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw Zinc, Nature’s Bounty Calcium Magnesium Zinc.
Q) What are some things to consider when using these supplements?
Zinc is part of the trace elements that are crucial for the body however, caution must be implemented as it is possible to take too much zinc which may be harmful for the body. Zinc should not be taken concomitantly with iron or calcium supplements and should be taken on an empty stomach. Pregnant women require higher quantities of zinc supplements. While safe, there is a possibility of side effects to be experienced as no two people react to medicine the same way. Some of the commonly seen side effects of zinc consist of: asthma-related symptoms, blood disorders, changes in iron levels, changes in skin pigmentation, changes in thyroid function, bad or different taste, bloating, changes in cholesterol levels, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth or nose, fatigue, headache, hormone changes, mouth ulcers, nausea, stomach cramps and vomiting. If you experience any of these symptoms, please stop taking the supplement and see a doctor immediately.
Q) How are these supplements good for athletes?
Latest studies have indicated that zinc increases the levels of testosterone in the body. Lower levels of testosterone affect the body when it comes to attributes like body fat percentage, recover and even strength. Studies have shown that athletes who were on zinc supplements as they worked out, showed increased levels of testosterone which over all helped these athletes with their workout regimen and over all muscle mass. Also, zinc supplements help in weight loss due zinc’s effects on these hormones.
Q) How do I chose between the various zinc supplements available?
It really depends on what you want to use it for i.e. what your ultimate goal is. Accordingly, products that help achieve those goals should be prioritized. Lastly, make a list. Categorize the aspects of a product that appeal to you, for example an organic product in comparison to an inorganic one would be more suitable. Making a pro and con list will help you choose between all the products. We have provided a preliminary pro and con list that does most of the job for you and helps make a quicker decision.
Q) Where can I purchase the supplements from?
They are quite easily available everywhere. The most suitable option available is to choose a product from websites like Amazon that not only give you product reviews but allow you to purchase items at the click of a button. Above, we have direct links to products so you don’t have to search for them. Also, sporting stores and large scale grocery stores do carry zinc supplements in their “vitamin and nutrition” aisles. Lastly, pharmacies carry these supplements as well.
Q) How should I take my supplements?
Overall, following the daily recommended limit is advised. Please see above in the “usage recommendation” section.
Q) Are zinc supplements safe during pregnancy?
If anything, pregnant women require higher levels of zinc in the body as it has shown benefits when it comes to fetal development. Please read above in “benefits” section for further detail.
Decision Time
We are confident that this list of zinc supplements will help you to decide which option and supplement is the best for you in order to get all of the benefits of this powerful supplement so that you can keep your body as healthy and as happy as possible.
