Zinc is an essential mineral important for many bodily processes. Most people obtain enough zinc through diet, according to Adventist Healthcare, but elderly people and individuals with certain health conditions are at increased risk for deficiency. These people might benefit from zinc supplements, of which several types are available. Zinc picolinate includes the chemical compound picolinic acid. Consult a qualified health care practitioner before taking zinc picolinate, because all types of zinc supplements can cause side effects.
Better Absorption
Research appearing in the journal "Agents and Actions" in June 1987 found that the body absorbs zinc picolinate better than the forms zinc citrate and zinc gluconate. The study authors measured zinc levels in hair, urine and red blood cells after participants took the supplements for four weeks, and only zinc picolinate resulted in significant increases.
Zinc Deficiency Treatment
Low zinc levels sometimes occur in elderly people, sickle cell anemia patients, alcoholics, individuals on very restricted diets and people with anorexia, according to Adventist Healthcare. Health conditions that interfere with nutrition absorption, such as Crohn's disease and celiac disease, also can cause zinc deficiency. Zinc picolinate supplements may be beneficial in all these cases. Symptoms of zinc deficiency include poor growth in children, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, a poor sense of taste or smell, slow wound healing, skin problems such as acne and eczema, hair loss, night blindness and depression.
Immune System Benefits
Zinc is important for the immune system, and people with a zinc deficiency tend to be more prone to infection. Some health care providers recommend zinc supplements to improve immunity and prevent infections, but that may only help people who were deficient in zinc. The mineral is included in some remedies for colds and flu to shorten the duration and severity of symptoms, although evidence of its effectiveness is mixed, according to Adventist Healthcare. One study found that adequate levels of zinc in elderly nursing home residents was associated with a lower risk of pneumonia and fewer new antibiotic prescriptions, as noted by Adventist Healthcare.
Benefits for Cancer Patients
Early research indicates that zinc supplements may decrease some side effects of radiation therapy for cancer involving the head or neck, according to the American Cancer Society. Zinc may prevent or decrease the severity of mouth sores caused by radiation and also help maintain the sense of taste.
Benefits for HIV Patients
Zinc deficiency is common in HIV and AIDS patients and leads to greater risk of infection. Some studies indicate that HIV-positive individuals who take zinc supplements contract fewer infections and have a better immune response, according to Adventist Healthcare. Because research results are conflicting and some HIV patients have experienced negative effects from taking zinc, Adventist Healthcare advises HIV-positive persons to consult a doctor before using this supplement.
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