Zinc Glutarate
Bio-Activity Analysis
Zinc Absorption Rate by Form
SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION
Health Benefits & Sources
Why You Need It
- Enhanced Immune Defense: Zinc is crucial for the development and function of immune cells. Glutarate form ensures your body gets the zinc it needs to fight off pathogens.
- Faster Skin Healing: It promotes cell growth and repair, making it excellent for acne, wound healing, and reducing inflammation.
- Cold Relief: Zinc is one of the few supplements clinically proven to shorten the duration of the common cold if taken early.
Deep Dive
Zinc Glutarate works by increasing the bioavailability of zinc. While standard zinc salts (like zinc sulfate) might be difficult for the body to absorb due to interactions with food, the glutarate ligand helps transport the zinc across the intestinal barrier. This is particularly important for maintaining healthy skin structure and immune response. Glutaric acid itself is a dicarboxylic acid involved in energy metabolism, potentially offering a slight synergistic benefit in how your body processes energy.
Natural Food Sources
It is important to note that you won't find 'Zinc Glutarate' growing on a tree. It is a compound created in a lab for supplements. However, you can get high-quality zinc naturally from these foods. The body absorbs zinc best from animal sources, but plant sources are great with proper preparation.
| Food | Amount (per 100g) | % Daily Value (DV) |
|---|---|---|
| Oysters (Cooked) | 78.6 mg | ~715% |
| Beef (Lean) | 12.3 mg | ~112% |
| Pumpkin Seeds | 7.8 mg | ~71% |
| Lentils (Cooked) | 3.0 mg | ~27% |
| Cashews | 5.8 mg | ~53% |
Supplementation
Dosage: The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for Zinc is 8-11 mg per day for adults. Supplements typically range from 15 mg to 50 mg.
Who should take it:
- Individuals with frequent colds or infections.
- Those with acne or slow-healing wounds.
- Vegetarians/Vegans (plant-based diets are lower in zinc).
Tip: If you are taking a high dose of zinc long-term, you should also ensure you are getting enough copper, as zinc can interfere with copper absorption.
Top Food Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
Safety & Side Effects
Zinc Glutarate is generally considered safe when used appropriately. However, because it is a chemical compound and a mineral supplement, specific safety guidelines apply:
- Stomach Upset: High doses of zinc (usually above 40-50 mg) can cause nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. Always take with food unless directed otherwise.
- Antibiotics: Zinc can interfere with the absorption of certain antibiotics (like tetracyclines and quinolones). Take them 2 hours apart.
- Long-term High Dose: Chronic high intake can suppress immune function and lower 'good' HDL cholesterol.
- Avoid if: You have kidney disease or are taking penicillamine (for rheumatoid arthritis).
Scientific References
- [1]Prasad, A. S. (2008). Zinc in human health: effect of zinc on immune cells. *Molecular Medicine*.
- [2]Shankar, A. H., & Prasad, A. S. (1998). Zinc and immune function: the biological basis of altered resistance to infection. *The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition*.
- [3]Gupta, M., et al. (2014). Zinc for the common cold. *Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews*.