Zinc is a mineral that is important for your health. The zinc found in supplements is often combined with other compounds, including gluconate or amino acids. These modified forms of zinc are designed to be absorbed better, though it is not known which forms of zinc are best absorbed by your digestive tract. The difference between chelated zinc and gluconated zinc is the identity of the other molecules bonded to the zinc. Talk to your doctor before consuming any sort of zinc supplement.
Zinc and Health
Zinc is a trace mineral that helps maintain the health of many of your body's systems. Zinc is important for the function of over 100 special proteins known as enzymes, which are needed to speed up chemical reactions in the body. Zinc also is needed to keep cell membranes strong, and it affects how your body uses DNA. Supplements with zinc are often used to boost the immune system against viral illnesses, such as the common cold.
Absorption
Zinc is sometimes combined with other substances to improve its absorption by the digestive tract. "Chelation" is a process in which multiple molecules are attached to a central molecule, such as zinc. Chelated zinc is often linked with amino acids, a combination that stimulates zinc absorption. Zinc gluconate consists of zinc with an attached gluconate molecule, also facilitating zinc's absorption. Gluconate is a naturally occurring molecule that is produced due to certain chemical reactions involving glucose. There is no conclusive scientific data as to which form is better absorbed, but both types are better absorbed than pure elemental zinc.
Other Properties
Zinc gluconate is more commonly found in supplements that are marketed directly to consumers as opposed to zinc supplements used in research. Many researchers prefer zinc sulfate because it contains a higher amount of zinc per weight. Chelated zinc is relatively new to the market and there is less information about its safety and effectiveness. In addition, there are different kinds of chelated zinc based on the number and type of amino acids attached to the zinc.
Safety
Although zinc is an important mineral for your body, it can be dangerous to consume zinc supplements. Nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain are among acute symptoms of a zinc overdose, which can occur with doses between 225 and 450 mg of zinc. Chronic zinc overdose can also interfere with intestinal absorption of copper, resulting in a copper deficiency. The maximum recommended amount of zinc each day for adults is 40 mg.
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