Choosing the Best Zinc Supplement in 2021: How and What

Although getting enough zinc through your daily diet can significantly boost your immune system and overall health, excessive consumption can lead to a decline in the absorption of other vital minerals, such as calcium. 

There are several good reasons for taking zinc supplements—they help maintain optimal blood sugar levels, fight off acne, support the immune system, etc. 

Since we understand our readers’ need to find out more about this essential micronutrient’s fantastic health benefits (especially since it can strengthen the immune system against coronavirus), we compiled a comprehensive review and a guide on selecting the best zinc supplements for their needs.

Let’s dive right into all you need to know about them.

Affiliate Disclosure

We carefully reviewed each product on this list to provide you with the most detailed analysis that would give you all the necessary information before making a decision. If you had trouble selecting the ideal zinc supplement for you in the past, the following sections could prove to be helpful. 

Without further ado, let’s go through our detailed zinc supplement reviews.

This remarkable product by Thorne is unarguably the best type of zinc supplement currently on the market. The purity of its ingredients, the form of zinc it delivers, and its manufacturers’ reputation won it the title.

This supplement could also bear another title—the best zinc supplement for the immune system since it’s proven to be a great weapon against common cold and related infections. Consumers generally claim that the regular use of these capsules boosts their immune system and that they rarely get sick. 

Zinc is an essential nutrient responsible for over 300 enzymatic reactions that play a crucial role in the growth and healthy living in general. However, not all forms of zinc are equally absorbable, and therefore, they’re not equally effective. To circumvent this problem, Thorne created a supplement using one of the most absorbable forms of zinc—zinc picolinate.

The high level of absorbability of this zinc form comes from its ability to bind itself to picolinic acid in the body. A single serving of this supplement provides your body with up to 30 mg of the most bioavailable form of zinc.

This zinc supplement is vital for many processes such as:

• Activation of a specific group of white blood cells (T-lymphocytes or T-cells) responsible for reducing the body’s inflammatory response in case of immune stress.
• Reduction of oxidative stress
• Promotion of healthy skin and fighting off acne.
• Testosterone production
• Hair shedding reduction
• Wound healing promotion

Lastly, this product is free from numerous allergens, including gluten and soy.

Pros:

• NSF-certified
• Dairy-, gluten-, and soy-free
• Made with natural flavors and colors

Cons:

• May inhibit the absorption of copper
• It may not be suitable for people with dry skin due to its sebum-reducing properties

If you’re looking for a zinc supplement with an edge, Garden of Life has just the thing for you. This product combines vitamins with zinc to support your immune system function, DNA synthesis, skin, eye, and prostate health.

Consumers report experiencing improved skin quality and acne healing as well as reduction of cold symptoms upon using this product.

A single serving (two capsules) of this high-quality zinc supplement contains 30 mg of raw whole-food zinc (a whopping 273% DV) in addition to 60 mg of vitamin C (67% DV).

What’s more, this incredible supplement contains natural ingredients such as raw organic fruit and vegetables (166 mg), as well as probiotics and enzymes that support healthy digestion, trace minerals (150 mg), and antioxidants. In addition, it’s produced without thermal processing, contains no GMO ingredients, gluten, synthetic fillers, artificial additives, sweeteners, or colors.

Although not readily obvious, some top zinc supplements contain animal-derived ingredients that make them unsuitable for vegans. Vitamin Code® Raw Zinc™ contains no animal products or byproducts, nor is it tested on animals. Therefore it’s considered to be vegan-friendly.

Pros:

• Contains no fillers or binders
• Non-GMO Project Verified
• Gluten-free

Cons:

• May cause sores in the mouth

If the taste is one of the deciding factors for you when it comes to choosing the best zinc supplements, this product could be a great choice. 

This product has a unique, refreshing peppermint flavor and a formula with positively charged zinc ions for optimum immune system support. This explains why it’s highly ranked among other top products in the race for the title of the best zinc supplement brand on the market today.

Just one vegetarian lozenge of this top contender for the title of the best zinc lozenges provides your body with 18.75 mg of zinc in the form of zinc acetate. This form of zinc releases most of its zinc content as ionic zinc. 

The positively charged zinc ions have been scientifically proven to support seasonal immune support, especially during the winter and cold weather. Consumer reviews confirm it’s effective in the elimination of early symptoms of cold and flu.

Pros:

• Palatable peppermint flavor
• An efficacious formula
• Non-GMO

Cons:

• May cause nausea if taken on an empty stomach
• The lozenges might be too large to swallow for some

This easy-to-use powder supplement contains 14% zinc. Zinc gluconate, the form used in this product, is possibly the best zinc for absorption that can help you quickly meet the required daily intake of zinc. A single serving (285 mg) of this powder supplement delivers 40 mg of zinc gluconate, which is 364% of the daily recommended dose. 

The powerful formula of this high-quality zinc supplement can help you boost immune function and help with the prevention and management of common infections like cold and flu. Particular users even claim it significantly speeds up the recovery from cold and visibly reduces symptoms.

Additionally, it helps support heart, skin, eye, oral, and reproductive health.

Lastly, this excellent supplement in the powder form is free from numerous allergens such as gluten, dairy, soy, yeast, etc.

Pros:

• Lab-verified and third-party tested
• Free from soy, sugar, and gluten
• Manufactured to meet cGMP standards

Cons:

• Some users suggested it caused nausea after use

MaryRuth Organics, a Californian brand founded by a chef, nutritional consultant, and certified health educator MaryRuth Ghiyam, has been around for six years. Among other products, the company makes one of the top-rated zinc supplements—Liquid Ionic Zinc.

The company mainly uses all-natural organic ingredients to create products of the best quality for your health. Liquid Ionic Zinc contains only necessary natural substances—purified water, zinc sulfate, and organic glycerin that serves as a preservative and sweetener, making it the best natural zinc supplement. 

This easy-to-take liquid zinc product supports healthy immune function. It ensures your body gets the required daily amount of zinc for overall health, with a single serving (3 ml) (0.10 fl oz) providing your body with 11.25 mg of zinc. Customers also claim ingredients like organic glycerin in this liquid organic zinc supplement helped them with gut cleansing and keeping chronic gastrointestinal issues under control.

Pros:

• Free from corn, wheat, and gluten
• Vegan-, celiac-, and kid-friendly
• Non-GMO

Cons:

• Glycerin in this product may leave a coating in the mouth

Country Life is a household name in the world of supplements and also qualifies for the title of the best brand for zinc supplement products. Based in Hauppauge, New York (where it manufactures 97% of its products), the company offers its clients a selection of laboratory-tested products made with high-quality ingredients. The products also come in packaging boxes made of 100% recycled paperboard.

Their zinc supplement, made with tested raw materials, is ideal for boosting immune and prostate health. It contains possibly the best type of zinc for absorption—zinc picolinate. This mineral form has been clinically proven to have a higher degree of absorption than other forms such as zinc gluconate and zinc citrate.

These are also some of the best zinc tablets on the market, as they’re easy to consume, leave no aftertaste, and don’t cause nausea. According to consumers, they’re very effective in treating acne and warding off the common cold.

Lastly, this supplement is certified gluten-free and vegan-friendly.

Pros:

• Certified gluten-free
• Vegetarian-certified by the AVA
• Has specific free-form amino acids

Cons:

• Some users reported getting constipated after using this product

This product is likely the best bioavailable zinc supplement on the market. A single tablet of this premium supplement delivers 22.5 mg of zinc (fermented zinc bisglycinate) to your body.

It contains real food, wholesome nutritional yeast, and additional nutrients ideal for immune system health. It’s ranked as the best organic zinc supplement in tablet form since it delivers a nourishing blend of whole foods (organic spinach, beetroot, broccoli, etc.) that promote overall health.

The MegaFood brand is committed to promoting organic and regenerative agriculture and including the healthiest ingredients into its products. The company has an exclusive list of organic farmers they work with and obtain organic herbs and vegetables. Therefore, the ingredients they use are safe and free from pesticides and other harmful substances.

Besides promoting immune system health, this best-rated zinc supplement supports about 100 different enzyme functions in the body, including tissue development and wound recovery.

Finally, this kosher- and NSF-certified supplement is gentle on the stomach, so taking it on an empty stomach won’t result in unpleasant side effects.

Pros:

• Free from herbicides and pesticides
• Glyphosate-residue-free
• Free from gluten, dairy, and soy

Cons:

• Customers reported inconsistent packaging

Supplemental zinc, especially in high doses, can deplete copper levels. With that in mind, Jarrow Formulas created a synergistic blend of zinc L-methionine (one of the best-absorbed zinc forms) and copper gluconate in a 15:1 ratio. As a result, a single serving of this product provides you with 140% DV of zinc (zinc L-methionine sulfate) and 110% DV of copper (copper gluconate), making it the best zinc and copper supplement on our list.

Many customers used this product for treating early signs of cold, flu, fever, cough, and immune system strengthening with excellent results. Furthermore, this product promotes skeletal health and is supports superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities in the body. SOD activities play a critical role in the body’s endogenous antioxidant network.

Consumers also reported a reduction in gray hair growth after taking this top zinc supplement. Lactose-intolerant patients also find this supplement effective. Namely, copper helps to counterbalance the overpowering effects of zinc that may cause or exacerbate gastrointestinal discomfort. 

Lastly, this product is free from allergens such as wheat, soybeans, eggs, etc.

Pros:

• Free from wheat, shellfish, and egg
• Vegan-friendly
• Acts as an antioxidant

Cons:

• Some consumers complained about nausea after taking this product on an empty stomach
• Some consumers noted a metallic after-taste

Puritan’s Pride, the brand behind this ideal zinc supplement for skin, is a well-known name in the supplement industry with over 40 years of experience providing the best quality scientifically formulated nutritional supplements on the global market.

Furthermore, the vitamins, minerals, and supplements they produce are scientifically formulated using the highest quality ingredients worldwide. Its products are manufactured in the US, where they undergo rigorous testing and inspection to ensure purity, potency, and consistency in every bottle.

This nutritional supplement is designed to support your health by providing you with a perfect combination of nutrients especially beneficial for your skin. Vitamin E, a top anti-aging agent, in this supplement promotes blood circulation in the skin, eliminating blemishes. Additionally, vitamins A and C may help with dead skin exfoliation and hyperpigmentation management. 

It’s the best zinc supplement for acne since reviews from customers report excellent results in treating this skin condition. They suggest that it’s effective against various kinds of acne, particularly hormonal type, in a matter of weeks.

Pros:

• Free from lactose, yeast, and sodium
• No artificial colors or sweeteners
• Quality-assured product

Cons:

• Some users reported feeling nauseous after use

This top zinc supplement acts as an antioxidant that helps your immune system remain strong, assists collagen production, boosts sleep and energy levels, and maintains a healthy gut. In other words, it takes care of your general health, as well as the health of your skin and digestive system. 

A single serving of this best zinc and magnesium supplement provides you with 50 mg of zinc, and both containers contain a 4-month supply of 120 capsules in total. Besides helping you meet the daily requirements for zinc intake, it makes up for the lack of other nutrients in the diet (vitamins A and C). 

Furthermore, it promotes reproductive health in general. It helps with fertility, supports normal growth and development during pregnancy.

Finally, this non-GMO zinc picolinate supplement is produced in a GMP-certified facility and is third-party certified. In other words, every ingredient in this product has been tested for purity and safety to ensure its effectiveness.

Pros:

• Third-party tested and GMP-certified
• Gluten-free
• Non-GMO

Cons:

• The most expensive product on our list
• Some users complained about poor customer service

Selecting the ideal zinc supplement for you can be quite a struggle, especially for those unfamiliar with how it works, since there are different types of zinc supplements on the shelves.

Here, we provide you with a detailed buyer’s guide with information on what to look out for when searching for the best zinc supplement to get.

What’s Zinc and Where to Get It?

Zinc is an essential mineral and the second most abundant trace mineral (after iron) found in the human body. It’s in charge of numerous processes, such as:

• Immune system function
• Protein synthesis
• Gene expression
• Enzymatic reactions
• DNA synthesis
• Growth and development
• Wound healing

Zinc deficiency can lead to several health problems such as growth retardation,  reduced sense of taste, and reduced function testes and ovaries. 

Since our bodies can’t store zinc for long periods, you should regularly acquire it from dietary sources (both plant and animal), such as poultry, fish, red meat, etc. Due to its importance, foods that don’t naturally contain zinc (cereals, snack bars, and baking flour) are often fortified with synthetic forms of zinc, so this mineral would be more available to everyone. Another good way to meet your daily zinc requirement or make up for zinc deficiency is through a good zinc supplement.

What Are Zinc Supplements?

Zinc supplements are products made to remedy zinc deficiency and treat a myriad of ailments. They can help boost immune function, promote heart and skin health, and regulate blood sugar levels. Therefore they’re used in treating common infections, flu, acne, etc.

Forms of Zinc in Supplements

The body doesn’t easily absorb all forms of zinc. This section will acquaint you with the reasons why, as well as with the best-absorbed zinc forms, and what type of zinc to look out for in a supplement before placing an order. 

While some supplements contain only one form of zinc, others contain multiple forms to help you attain your RDI. Although these different variants of zinc affect health in unique ways, you should always choose to buy a zinc supplement that’s easily absorbed by the body.

Zinc Gluconate

Zinc gluconate is one of the most common forms of zinc found in supplements. It has high bioavailability and provides numerous health benefits. Studies show that it’s effective against early cold and flu symptoms.

Zinc Acetate

Zinc acetate is another form of zinc found in some of the best-absorbed zinc supplements and often comes in tablet form. It helps minimize the symptoms of cold and speeds up the recovery process. However, it can leave a rather unpleasant aftertaste upon consumption.

Zinc Sulfate

You will also often find zinc sulfate in most over-the-counter supplement products due to its relatively high bioavailability and effectiveness in acne treatment.

Zinc Picolinate

This form remains the most bioavailable form of zinc, according to research. It’s incorporated in most zinc supplements due to the numerous health benefits it provides, such as immune system strengthening, body metabolism improvement, gut healing, etc. 

Zinc Orotate

Zinc orotate is a form of zinc that is readily bioavailable and is found in numerous zinc supplements. This form of zinc attaches itself to orotic acid in the body and increases absorbability.

Form

Zinc supplements are available in different forms—capsules, tablets, powder, drops, etc. In other words, if you aren’t comfortable swallowing pills, you can always choose the zinc powder supplement option.

Purity

Many brands claim their products are pure and efficient in the supplement industry. However, not all of these claims are valid. The best way to make sure the products contain pure and safe ingredients is to check the label for lab-testing and NSF and third-party certifications. 

We do extensive research and cover only trusted brands and products in our supplement reviews. Therefore, products on our list are safe for consumption and contain tested ingredients. 

Dosage

There isn’t a universal zinc supplement dosage. Everyone has a unique threshold, depending primarily on the lifestyle and diet plan. 

Typically, the RDI of zinc is 8 mg for adult women and 11 mg for adult men. The general upper limit for zinc sits at 40 mg a day. However, zinc-deficient individuals might require higher doses.

Finally, if your daily diet contains enough zinc, chances are you will require either minimal or no zinc supplementation.

Cost

It’s impossible to neglect price as a deciding factor when scouring the market for the best zinc to take. All products on our list are relatively affordable and cost-effective, while some save your money by offering various discounts and deals. 

Overdose

Zinc products, like all other supplements, can lead to an overdose when consumed in excess.  Excessive intake of zinc supplements can cause/produce the following chronic and acute symptoms:

• Diarrhea
• Abdominal cramps
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Headaches
• Decreased “good” HDL cholesterol levels
• Reduced immune system function

It can also lead to deficiencies in other nutrients such as copper, iron, magnesium, etc. To avoid overconsumption, refrain from high-dose zinc supplements (with over 40 mg zinc per serving) unless recommended by a physician.

When it comes to zinc supplements, it’s advised to consume only those products that contain absorbable forms of zinc such as zinc citrate, zinc gluconate, zinc picolinate, etc. It’s generally recommended to avoid zinc oxide since it’s poorly absorbed.

Conclusion

Zinc supplements are an excellent tool for maintaining immune system function, skin health, boosting your metabolism, etc. All you have to do is make the right choice of products. Therefore, the main aspect you should bear in mind when choosing the best zinc supplement is the form of zinc it contains. 

Namely, it would be best if you opted for those supplements that contain readily absorbed forms of zinc. Consequently, you might want to steer clear of products that contain zinc oxide due to its low absorbability.