Zinc Gluconate Or Zinc Picolinate

You can get zinc by eating certain foods, and it is also available in various supplements, including zinc picolinate and zinc gluconate. Zinc is an essential trace element, a mineral and a micronutrient necessary for healthy growth and development. It has antioxidant properties and is required for a healthy immune system, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Zinc picolinate and zinc gluconate come from different sources.

Zinc Picolinate

Zinc ore is mined and then goes through a process called froth flotation, which separates and purifies the zinc. Zinc picolinate is a form of zinc that has been bonded in a biochemical complex with picolinic acid. "Picolinic acid is the body's prime natural chelator," notes the Olympus Microscopy Resource Center. Picolination facilitates the passage of zinc through the gastrointestinal wall and into the circulatory system, and is thought to make zinc more available to the body as a nutrient.

Zinc Gluconate

Zinc gluconate is the zinc salt of gluconic acid. A study published in the September 2006 issue of "Food Technology and Biotechnology" indicates that gluconic acid is produced by fermenting glucose. It contains several different salts, such as sodium, zinc gluconate and calcium gluconate. The researchers note that zinc gluconate is more soluble than other zinc salts and friendlier to the stomach. Furthermore, zinc gluconate is known for its easy absorption and quick assimilation into the body. In a study at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation reported in the "Annals of Internal Medicine" in July 1996, researchers concluded that "[z]inc gluconate in the form and dosage studied significantly reduced the duration of symptoms of the common cold."

Zinc Availability

A study at Bastyr University Research Institute reported in June 1987 compared the absorption of three different complexed forms of zinc, including zinc picolinate and zinc gluconate. Researchers noted that zinc levels rose significantly during zinc picolinate administration, but showed no significant change when other forms of zinc were administered. "The results of this study," they concluded, "suggest that zinc absorption in humans can be improved by complexing zinc with picolinic acid."

Warnings

Consult with your healthcare provider about taking zinc supplements. In particular, you want to make sure that there are no interactions with prescription medications that you are taking. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, common side effects of zinc include stomach upset, nausea, vomiting and a metallic taste in the mouth. Furthermore, high doses can cause dizziness, headache, drowsiness, increased sweating, loss of muscle coordination, alcohol intolerance, hallucinations and anemia.