← Back
2Corrective

Zinc

Also sold as Picolinate, gluconate, zinc

Short courses for illness or a confirmed low level. Long high doses deplete copper.

TrustedSupp Tier System™ · Tier 2Take until levels correct

Evidence strength

78/100Strong
WEAKLIMITEDMODERATESTRONGVERY STRONG

What the evidence supports: correcting deficiency and shortening colds if started early.

This scores how well-supported the claim above is — not how much benefit you personally would get. A high score on a narrow claim does not extend to everything the product is marketed for.

How long to take it

Days to weeks for illness; a few months for confirmed deficiency. Not a permanent addition.

Who it's actually for

People with poor appetite, recurrent infections, plant-based diets, or documented low levels.

Safe upper limit

Reported
40 mg per day
Sustained high intake induces copper deficiency, which can cause anaemia and nerve damage that is slow to reverse.
Standard figure, high confidence, not re-verified against the live fact sheet this session.

Interactions to know about

Other supplements:

Run your full list through the interaction check.

Practical notes

  • Take with food — on an empty stomach it commonly causes nausea.
  • If you take more than 25 mg daily for months, discuss copper with your doctor.
  • Nasal zinc products have caused permanent loss of smell — avoid them.