Zinc indeed plays a crucial role in many processes in the body, and one of its lesser-known benefits is its potential to aid sleep. Zinc has been found to have a calming effect on the body, which may help to promote better sleep quality and quantity. Additionally, studies have suggested that zinc may help to regulate sleep patterns, reducing the likelihood of sleep disturbances and promoting a more restful night’s sleep.
However, it is important to note that while zinc may play a role in sleep, it should not be relied on as a primary sleep aid. It is always recommended to prioritize healthy sleep habits, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, avoiding caffeine and electronics close to bedtime, and creating a comfortable sleep environment.
If you are considering supplementing with zinc, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider first to determine if it is appropriate for you and to determine the right dosage. While zinc is generally safe at recommended doses, excess intake may lead to side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, among others.
Zinc has several benefits for overall health, but its effectiveness for certain conditions like the common cold is still a matter of debate. While some studies have suggested that zinc lozenges may help reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms, others have found no significant benefit.
The study mentioned earlier suggests that zinc acetate lozenges may not help individuals recover from a cold faster. However, it is worth noting that the effectiveness of zinc supplements may depend on several factors, including the dose, duration of treatment, and specific formulation. It is always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, including zinc supplements.
Although zinc has been traditionally recommended as a cold treatment, studies on the effectiveness of zinc lozenges have yielded mixed results. While zinc may have some antibacterial properties that could potentially help to alleviate cold symptoms, its effectiveness in treating colds is still largely uncertain.
It is always important to seek medical advice from a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment, including supplementing with zinc. In addition, following healthy habits such as practicing good hygiene, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest may help to prevent and alleviate cold symptoms.
However, selecting a high-quality zinc supplement can help ensure that the body is able to absorb and utilize the zinc effectively. When choosing a zinc supplement, it is recommended to look for a brand that uses a bioavailable form of zinc, such as zinc gluconate, zinc acetate, or zinc citrate. Additionally, choosing a supplement that has undergone third-party testing for purity and potency can provide added assurance of its quality.
While zinc supplements are often recommended for their potential health benefits, it is important to keep in mind that they should not be used as a substitute for a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. Zinc plays an important role in various bodily functions, including immune function, wound healing, and skin health. However, it is always important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for an individual’s specific health needs and goals.
The List: Best Zinc Supplements, According to Experts
1.Thorne Research Zinc Picolinate
Outlook India praises Thorne Zinc Picolinate as one of the best zinc supplements available on the market in capsule form, with no artificial flavors. They explain that the supplement contains 273% of the daily value of zinc picolinate, which the body can optimally absorb. They also point out that the supplement activates a specific type of white blood cells that assists in moderating the body’s response during stress. As a gluten-free, dairy-free, and soy-free supplement, it lends support for general wellness, enhances immune function and maintains healthy skin.
CNET notes that Thorne Zinc Picolinate has two versions containing 30mg and 15mg of zinc, respectively. These supplements are gluten-free, GMO-free, and made without artificial preservatives. They confirm that the product is produced in a lab that adheres to the Therapeutic Goods Administration standards and is NSF certified for sport, which ensures its use does not contain any banned substances for athletes.
According to Verywell Health, Thorne Zinc Picolinate helps the body absorb nutrients, providing 30 mg of zinc, which is within the safe limits, in one convenient capsule. They recommend taking it with food if you are prone to digestive discomfort. They further attest to Thorne Research delivering top-quality supplements, stating that while they may be slightly more expensive, the brand is trusted, and customers can be sure of getting what they paid for.
2. Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw Zinc
Garden of Life is a reputable and trustworthy brand that offers an extensive range of supplements. The company is renowned for producing clean products that undergo purity testing. Healthline confirms that Garden of Life’s supplements are whole foods-based, certified organic, and non-GMO verified. The Vitamin Code Raw Zinc supplement is an excellent option for vegans, as it is third-party tested to ensure the product is vegan, as well as gluten-free. In addition to providing 30mg of plant-based zinc per serving, the supplement includes vitamin C, a raw organic fruit and vegetable blend, as well as live probiotics and enzymes to aid healthy digestion.
Medical News Today points out that the recommended daily intake of zinc for adults ranges from 8mg to 11mg, depending on gender and certain life stages such as pregnancy and lactation. A zinc supplement can be beneficial for those who have a low intake of zinc in their diet and experience symptoms such as hair loss, weakened immunity, and loss of appetite. They appreciate that Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw Zinc supplement contains vitamin C to help enhance its benefits for the skin and immune system. However, the recommended dosage of 1 capsule twice a day is higher than the RDA of zinc, and they suggest consulting with a healthcare professional before use.
CNET recommends Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw Zinc supplement as the best vegan zinc supplement for those seeking only raw, non-animal sourced ingredients. They explain that the supplement is a whole foods-based capsule that provides 30mg of zinc and additional vitamin C, live probiotics, and enzymes, without the use of artificial colors, sweeteners, or additives. They also mention that the capsule can be opened and the supplement poured into a beverage for those with difficulty swallowing pills.
3.NOW Zinc Glycinate
NOW Foods is a well-established supplement company and has been in business for 55 years, which is a significant milestone, especially in the supplement industry. This achievement is a testament to the quality of their products and services.
According to Healthline, NOW Zinc Glycinate Softgels is an excellent choice for those looking for chelated zinc supplements, which use chelating agents to aid the absorption of zinc in the body. NOW supplements are certified by Underwriters Laboratories and follow CGMPs to ensure their quality, accuracy and are a more affordable option compared to other high-quality brands.
Medical News Today highlights that NOW Zinc Glycinate Softgels is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans due to its bovine gelatin and exceeds the recommended daily dose, hence it is advised to consult a doctor before using it. This supplement is halal and kosher, gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, egg-free, sugar-free, and corn-free and is specifically designed for adults, not for children.
CNET notes that NOW Zinc Glycinate Softgels provides a highly concentrated 30 mg dose of zinc that is effective in addressing deficiencies but that taking it on an empty stomach may cause an upset stomach. Additionally, each softgel includes 250mg of pumpkin seed oil, which has been linked to improved heart and urinary tract health.
4.Nature Made Zinc
The popularity of NOW Foods supplements is evident from the fact that these supplements are available in the vitamin section of almost every grocery store in the U.S. The recognizable brown bottles with yellow labels are a hallmark of the brand and can be spotted easily on store shelves. Being a trusted brand, NOW Foods supplements are in demand and occupy significant real estate in store aisles.
MBG Health recommends a supplement containing calcium, magnesium, and zinc to promote bone health throughout life. This supplement includes 333mg of calcium, 133mg of magnesium, and 5mg of zinc, along with a hint of vitamin D3 to support calcium absorption. While the mineral forms used in this supplement may not have the highest possible bioavailability, they are still absorbed and beneficial. Additionally, this supplement displays the USP seal, ensuring its quality, and comes with an affordable price tag.
According to Verywell Health, Nature Made Zinc 30mg tablet is a budget-friendly option for those looking for a zinc supplement. The 30mg dose is below the 40 mg Tolerable Upper Intake Level for adults and provides 273% of the daily value of zinc. It is important to ensure that the total daily amount of zinc from supplements does not exceed 40mg, unless directed by a healthcare professional, especially if taking other supplements that also contain zinc.
Nature Made is a well-established supplement brand that has been around since 1971 and is recommended by pharmacists across nine product categories, as Healthline writes. Its expert staff includes PhDs, registered dietitians, and naturopathic doctors.
Nature Made Zinc is a USP-verified supplement that guarantees product potency and purity. It is an affordable option as each serving provides 30 mg of zinc gluconate and is suitable for anyone looking for a cost-effective option. The recommended serving size is one tablet per day with water and a meal, or as directed by a healthcare professional.
Nature Made Zinc supplements are easy to find at drugstores. One drawback of this supplement is that it is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans, as it contains animal-derived gelatin.
5.Life Extension Enhanced Zinc Lozenges
Although research has suggested that zinc lozenges may not be effective in reducing the duration of colds, there are also studies indicating that they may have that benefit. Some experts believe that the type of zinc used in the lozenges may play a role in the effectiveness of the supplement.
Despite this uncertainty, many health experts recommend the use of zinc lozenges as a way to increase zinc intake. Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, including immunity, wound healing, and cellular repair. Consequently, maintaining adequate levels of zinc in your body is important for overall health and wellbeing.
According to CNET, Life Extension’s zinc lozenges are a great option to help alleviate cold symptoms quickly. One study review found that consuming around 80mg of zinc lozenges each day can reduce the duration of common cold symptoms by 33 percent. Life Extension’s lozenges contain 18.75mg of zinc acetate, which is linked to reducing the length of a cold. Unlike typical zinc supplements, lozenges are designed for short-term use (less than three days) to alleviate symptoms. The recommended dosage for Life Extension’s zinc lozenges is one lozenge every two hours, no more than eight times a day.
MBG Health also recommends Life Extension’s Enhanced Zinc Lozenges as a way to support the immune system throughout the year, with each serving containing 18.75mg of zinc acetate. However, it’s worth noting that each lozenge is 20 calories and has 5 grams of carbs, including 4 grams of added sugars from dextrose. While it can be enjoyable to switch up your zinc routine with flavored lozenges, it’s important to keep track of the added sugars and calories.
Healthline notes that Life Extension has a long history of producing high-quality supplements for over 40 years. Their products are manufactured in an NSF-registered GMP facility, and each product comes with a certificate of analysis (COA) that is available to consumers to ensure the quality and accuracy of the supplement.
Regarding Life Extension Enhanced Zinc Lozenges, Healthline mentions that this supplement contains 18.75mg of zinc acetate, a form of zinc that has been shown to shorten the duration of colds by up to 40%. However, like other zinc supplements, the research is mixed on its effectiveness. While some studies have found zinc lozenges to be effective in reducing cold symptoms, others have not found significant benefits. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if zinc lozenges are a suitable option for you and to ensure that you are taking them safely and effectively.