Zinc supplements are often used to help treat and prevent zinc deficiency.

Although zinc deficiency is rare, the mineral is considered an essential nutrient, meaning the body cannot produce it itself.

Individuals with restrictive diets, impaired nutrient absorption, or certain health conditions may be more prone to developing zinc deficiency.

Symptoms of zinc deficiency include:

• impaired immune function
• hair loss
• poor appetite
• diarrhea
• slow wound healing

Studies have shown that taking zinc supplements effectively increases zinc levels in the blood. The effect of zinc supplementation on fatigue among elderly community dwellers: A parallel clinical trial - PubMed

According to a 2023 study, most cases of zinc deficiency can be easily corrected with supplements and dietary changes, leading to a rapid improvement in symptoms. Zinc Deficiency - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf

For example, diarrhea may improve within just 24 hours, while skin lesions typically heal within 1 to 2 weeks of starting supplementation.

If you get enough zinc through your diet, supplements may not be necessary. If you suspect you have a deficiency, a doctor can test your blood levels to determine if a supplement might be beneficial.

Many over-the-counter medications and natural remedies contain zinc due to its ability to boost the immune system and fight inflammation. Therefore, it can potentially help treat certain types of infection if used when symptoms first appear.

A 2017 review of studies showed that zinc supplements containing 80 to 92 mg of zinc can reduce the duration of a common cold by up to 33%. Zinc lozenges and the common cold: a meta-analysis comparing zinc acetate and zinc gluconate, and the role of zinc dosage - PubMed

Zinc can also act as an antioxidant, reduce inflammation, and protect against chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of zinc. Zinc-dependent NF-κB signaling | Inflammopharmacology

According to a 2021 review, some evidence suggests that zinc intake may even prevent symptoms and shorten the duration of certain respiratory tract infections. Zinc for the prevention or treatment of acute viral respiratory tract infections in adults: a rapid systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials - PubMed

Zinc is well known for its role in regulating blood sugar and insulin secretion. Insulin is the hormone responsible for transporting sugar from the bloodstream to the body's tissues. Intracellular zinc in insulin secretion and action: a determinant of diabetes risk? - PubMed

Research suggests that zinc can help keep blood sugar levels stable and improve the body's sensitivity to insulin.

A review has reported that low zinc levels may be associated with impaired blood sugar regulation and type 2 diabetes. The Role of Zinc Homeostasis in the Prevention of Diabetes Mellitus and Cardiovascular Diseases - PMC

Other studies show that zinc can help reduce insulin resistance, which can improve the body's ability to effectively use insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels. The Effect of Zinc Supplementation on Insulin Resistance in Obese Subjects: a Systematic Review - PubMed

Zinc supplements are often used to promote skin health and treat common skin conditions like acne.

One type of zinc, called zinc sulfate, has been shown to be particularly helpful in reducing symptoms of mild to moderate acne. An Open-label Study Comparing Oral Zinc to Lymecycline in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris - PMC

According to a 2020 study, individuals with acne not only had lower blood zinc levels compared to those without acne, but zinc supplementation also reduced the average number of inflammatory papules and pustules caused by the condition. Serum zinc levels and efficacy of zinc treatment in acne vulgaris: A systematic review and meta-analysis - PubMed

Zinc supplements are often preferred over other treatment methods as they are inexpensive, effective, and associated with far fewer side effects.

 

Heart disease is a serious health condition and accounts for approximately 33% of deaths worldwide. Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics—2017 Update: A Report From the American Heart Association - PMC

Research shows that zinc intake can improve several risk factors for heart disease. It can even lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels. Effects of Zinc supplementation on serum lipids: a systematic review and meta-analysis - PMC

A 2015 study found that zinc supplementation reduced levels of total and LDL (bad) cholesterol, as well as blood triglycerides. Therefore, they could potentially help prevent heart disease. Effects of Zinc supplementation on serum lipids: a systematic review and meta-analysis - PMC

A 2020 study showed that zinc supplementation could reduce systolic blood pressure, which is the top number in a blood pressure reading. The effect of zinc supplementation on blood pressure: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized-controlled trials - PubMed

However, research on the effect of supplements on blood pressure is limited. Furthermore, some studies suggest that low blood zinc levels may be associated with a higher risk of coronary heart disease, although the results are still uncertain. More research is needed. Systematic review of zinc biochemical indicators and risk of coronary heart disease - PMC

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common eye disease and one of the leading causes of vision loss worldwide.

Zinc supplements are often used to slow the progression of AMD and help protect against vision loss and blindness.

A 2014 study of 72 people with AMD showed that taking 50 mg of zinc sulfate daily for 3 months slowed the progression of the disease. Zinc supplementation inhibits complement activation in age-related macular degeneration - PubMed

Other reviews also recommend zinc supplementation to slow the progression of AMD and claim that it can improve nutrient supply to the retina to protect against the disease. Dietary Antioxidants in Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Glaucoma - PMC

However, other studies suggest that zinc supplementation alone may not significantly improve vision and should be combined with other treatment options for maximum effect. Nutrients for Prevention of Macular Degeneration and Eye-Related Diseases - PMC

Therefore, more research is needed to learn more about the connection between this mineral and eye health.