Vitamins & minerals
Zinc
Names you may see: zinc bisglycinate citrate gluconate picolinate
The quick take
Zinc supports immune function, wound healing, DNA production and normal growth.
A closer look
What forms will I see on a label?
Compare elemental zinc amounts across forms such as gluconate, citrate and bisglycinate. The total compound weight is not the zinc dose.
Why people use it
People choose zinc for immune support and normal skin and wound healing. Supplements can help address inadequate intake; higher amounts are not automatically more useful.
These are common goals and marketing uses. The evidence section below explains what research supports.
What does the evidence tell us?
Meeting zinc needs supports normal function. Extra zinc is not automatically beneficial when intake is sufficient.
What should I know before using it?
Excess supplemental zinc can cause nausea and reduce copper status. It can also interfere with certain antibiotics.
Sources & further reading
NIH Office of Dietary Supplements ↗
Content reviewed: September 30, 2026
General educational information. Follow the product label and seek individual advice when needed.