Zinc Bisglycinate: Complete Guide to Benefits & Uses

Zinc is one of 16 essential trace minerals your body needs for optimal health. Next to iron, it is the most abundant mineral in your body and is found in almost every cell. Zinc is central to the proper functioning of more than 300 enzymes and is essential for proper growth and development.

As a supplemental form, Zinc bisglycinate and related amino acid-chelated forms of Zinc are valued for their absorption characteristics. This product uses OptiZinc®, a patented 1:1 complex of Zinc and 100% natural methionine — the amino acid that is best absorbed by the body and also serves as an antioxidant. Studies show that OptiZinc® is absorbed better, retained longer, and is more effective than ordinary Zinc supplements tested. It also resists binding with dietary fiber and phytate, organic compounds that commonly inhibit Zinc absorption.

OptiZinc® is the only premium Zinc supplement approved by the FDA for human nutrition. Unlike other Zinc supplements, OptiZinc® will not cause anemia by removing iron from cells, making it a distinct choice among Zinc bisglycinate and chelated Zinc options.

Zinc is incorporated into approximately 10% of all human proteins, and well over 300 enzymes require Zn²⁺ for catalytic or structural functions. These metalloenzymes span all six enzyme classes — oxidoreductases, transferases, hydrolases, lyases, isomerases, and ligases — meaning Zinc participates in virtually every metabolic process involving proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and nucleic acids.

At the cellular level, Zinc ions form "Zinc fingers" — structural motifs that enable transcription factors to bind DNA and regulate gene expression. The body also uses Zinc to make DNA and proteins, contribute to chromatin stability, and facilitate cell division.

Immune Regulation

For more than 50 years, it has been known that Zinc deficiency compromises immune function. Virtually all aspects of innate and adaptive immunity are affected by Zinc status, including the number and function of neutrophils, monocytes, natural killer cells, T cells, and B cells. Zinc also reduces the production of inflammatory cytokines TNF-alpha and IL-1 beta, contributing to its anti-inflammatory function.

Hormonal Interactions

There are numerous physiologically relevant interactions between Zinc and various hormones, including testosterone, insulin, adrenal corticoids, and growth hormone. Zinc is involved in hormone production, storage, secretion, and receptor interactions.

Zinc bisglycinate and chelated Zinc supplements may be particularly relevant for several groups. People who are deficient in Zinc are more susceptible to infections, and low levels of Zinc have been detected in people with a number of conditions including diabetes, eating disorders, male infertility, diarrhea, and osteoporosis.

Men's Health

Men may benefit from Zinc for two common concerns. The hormone testosterone requires Zinc for its production, and infertility resulting from low testosterone levels may respond to increased Zinc intake. Research suggests that symptoms resulting from an enlarged prostate or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) may also be supported with additional Zinc. Zinc is highly concentrated in seminal plasma, and studies suggest supplementation may support semen volume, sperm motility, and normal morphology in infertile males.

Immune Support

One of Zinc's prime uses comes in supporting the immune system. Zinc supplementation may support immune system function, helping protect against colds and upper respiratory challenges. Because of its immune-supporting capabilities, Zinc has also shown benefit in supporting women dealing with Candida or yeast infection — an effect that may be enhanced by combining Zinc with vitamins A, C, and E.

Surgical Recovery

Individuals facing surgery are encouraged to take sufficient Zinc, vitamin A, and vitamin C before and after surgery. Studies show that taking sufficient amounts of these nutrients may help optimize wound healing.

At-Risk Populations

Certain groups may have trouble getting enough Zinc, including people who have had gastrointestinal surgery such as weight loss surgery, those with digestive disorders such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, vegetarians, and older adults. Research indicates that 35%–45% of adults aged 60 years or older had Zinc intakes below the estimated average requirement.

Take one (1) tablet daily with meals. Store in a cool, dry place and away from direct light. Each tablet contains 20 mg of OptiZinc®.

This product is gluten free, dairy free, soy free, and grain free.

It is worth noting that taking supplements containing a substantial amount of iron (25 mg or more) at the same time as Zinc supplements can reduce Zinc absorption. If you take iron supplements, consider separating them from your Zinc intake. Similarly, Zinc may interact with certain medications such as quinolone antibiotics, tetracycline antibiotics, and penicillamine — consult your healthcare provider if you take these medications.