Dietary Supplement Facts About Zinc

Zinc is a trace mineral that is found in almost every cell of your body. Zinc aids in the function of over 100 enzymes and has a variety of different functions in your body. Adult males require 11 mg of zinc daily, whereas adult females require 8 mg per day. If you cannot meet your dietary requirements for zinc, you may consider taking zinc as a supplement.

Function

Zinc plays an important role in the structure of both DNA and RNA. Zinc also contributes to the development of white blood cells, which help fight off infections, and it helps ensure that your wounds are able to heal properly. Your ability to taste also relies on the presence of zinc in your body.

Safety Concerns

Oral or topical forms of zinc are generally considered safe for all adults when taken in amounts that do not exceed 40 mg per day. Zinc nasal sprays are generally considered unsafe, as they can lead to the loss of smell when used for an extended period of time. The Food and Drug Administration recommends that adults not take zinc in the form of a nasal spray.

Interactions

Zinc supplements can interact with various medications and foods. Taking zinc in conjunction with antibiotics can decrease the amount of the antibiotic that your body is able to absorb, which decreases its effectiveness. Antibiotics should be taken 2 hours before or 4 to 6 hours after taking zinc in order to avoid this. The medication amiloride, which is used to remove excess water from the body, may increase the amount of zinc in your body. Taking zinc with amiloride can significantly increase the levels of zinc in your body. Dairy products, calcium-fortified foods and fiber can decrease the body's ability to absorb zinc initially. Over time the body adapts to supplementation and becomes more efficient at absorbing zinc. Animal proteins can help increase the absorption of zinc.

Toxicity

Zinc toxicity can be sudden, or acute, and chronic. Acute zinc toxicity affects the gastrointestinal system, causing nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, loss of appetite and diarrhea. Chronic zinc toxicity can decrease the absorption of copper in the intestinal tract. Excessive amounts, which are defined by "Nutrition and You" as 300 mg per day or higher, can suppress the immune system and decrease your HDL, or good, cholesterol levels.

In order to prevent toxicity, the Food and Nutrition Board has set an upper tolerable intake level, or UL, for zinc at 40 mg per day. When choosing a supplement, make sure the amount in the supplement does not exceed the UL. Work with your doctor or a dietitian to determine the best zinc supplement for you.