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Deficiency/Immunity/Hormonal

Zinc

Essential trace mineral that corrects low zinc and may shorten colds, especially in adults with low intake or low status.

Zinc
68
score
B
evidence
Caution
risk

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Quick Take

Useful if your diet is low in zinc or you want a cold lozenge on hand; less compelling as a daily supplement if you already eat well.

Zinc is an essential trace mineral found in oysters, beef, dairy, beans, and seeds. It acts as a cofactor for hundreds of enzymes involved in immune-cell signaling, skin repair, antioxidant defense, and protein synthesis. Best-supported uses are correcting low zinc status and, as acetate or gluconate lozenges, modestly shortening colds. Some adults with low zinc may also see benefits for acne, wound healing, or glucose control. It helps most in people with low intake, plant-heavy diets, older age, or frequent colds.

Potential benefits

01
Restores low zinc status
02
Shortens common cold duration
03
May improve glucose control
04
May lower infection risk
05
May reduce acne severity
06
May support testosterone levels
07
May improve wound healing

Protocol

Amount
10-15 mg elemental zinc
Frequency
Once daily
When
With food to reduce nausea; separate from iron, calcium, and antibiotics by at least 2 hours.

Onset Time

Cold lozenges: 1-2 days; deficiency or skin effects: 4-12 weeks

Who Should Consider

Adults with low shellfish or red-meat intake
Vegetarians and vegans with high-phytate diets
Older adults with low appetite or poor intake
People who get frequent colds
Adults with confirmed low serum or plasma zinc
Long-term PPI or thiazide users

Food Sources

  • Oysters (~30-70 mg per 6 medium)
  • Beef (~5 mg per 100 g)
  • Crab or dark turkey meat (~3-7 mg per 100 g)
  • Pumpkin seeds (~2-3 mg per 30 g)
  • Chickpeas or lentils (~1-2 mg per 1/2 cup, less absorbed)
  • Yogurt or cheese (~1-2 mg per serving)

How It Works

Zinc is required for over 300 enzymes and many zinc-finger proteins. It helps immune cells develop and signal properly, supports DNA and protein synthesis, stabilizes cell membranes, and contributes to hormone production and tissue repair. In lozenges, ionic zinc may also interfere with viral activity in the upper airway.

Updated 5/19/2026

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