Elemental zinc is the actual amount of zinc contained in a supplement or compound and the quantity absorbed by the body.
Signs of zinc deficiency include:
• Unexplained weight loss
• Poor wound healing
• Skin rashes/acne
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Frequent infections
• Hair loss
• Delayed sexual maturation
• Lack of taste and smell
Zinc is important for:
• Wound healing
• Protein synthesis
• Maintaining taste and smell
• Reproductive health
Foods that contain zinc:
• Oysters
• Beef
• Chicken
• Tofu
• Pumpkin seeds
• Lentils
• Yogurt
• Oatmeal
There are many different types of elemental zinc:
Zinc Oxide: Contains as much as 80% elemental zinc. Not as bioavailable as other forms. Commonly used in sunscreens, diaper rash treatments and creams for skin irritations.
Zinc Citrate: Contains approximately 34% elemental zinc. Well-tolerated and easily absorbed.
Zinc Acetate: Contains approximately 30% elemental zinc. Often used in lozenges for the common cold.
Zinc Sulfate: Contains approximately 23% elemental zinc. Often used in eye treatment products.
Zinc Picolinate: Contains approximately 21% elemental zinc. Often used in supplements due to its high bioavailability.
Zinc Monomethionine: Contains approximately 21% elemental zinc. Bioavailable and often used in supplements for immune support.
Zinc Rotate: Contains approximately 20% elemental zinc. Well-absorbed and often used in supplements for a variety of conditions.
Zinc Gluconate: Contains approximately 14% elemental zinc. One of the most common over-the-counter forms of zinc and typically used in lozenges for the common cold.
Based on research, Zinc Picolinate and Zinc Monomethionine are often recommended as they have high amounts of elemental zinc and are more easily absorbed by your body. Practitioners advise which zinc to choose based on the patient’s health needs.
