Zinc supplements fulfill the body’s need for zinc for optimal growth and good health. Lack of zinc is often associated with poor night vision, wound healing, weak immune system, affected reproductive organ growth, and many such complications.

When one decides to take this beneficial mineral through supplements, they are faced with the choice to take it along with multivitamins or take it along with vitamin C. If taken on an empty stomach it causes uneasiness and stomach upset. Therefore it is advised to be taken with a meal and not late at night. 

On the other hand, zinc affects the iron and calcium absorption in the body, so it is also recommended not to be taken with meals that contain dairy products. 

The right way to Consume Zinc 

Zinc, famous for its immunity-boosting properties, is a staple mineral in most people’s diets.  For its effective consumption consume this immunity booster at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after your regular meal. Zinc is absorbed in the small intestine thus take it with your meals if you experience uneasiness upon taking it on empty stomach. 

Most people can fulfill their zinc needs from their regular diet only but if you are concerned about your zinc levels discuss with your doctor first. Since zinc is reportedly seen to affect the iron and calcium consumption in the body, therefore try not to take them together. 

Zinc compatibility with Magnesium

Where most minerals and vitamins compete with each other for absorption in the body, magnesium and zinc work in each other’s favor if taken together in the right doses. Due to their positive compatibility, both supplements are often found together in oral supplements.

Where magnesium regulates the zinc level, overdose of zinc can affect magnesium absorption adversely. It could even disturb the magnesium balance in the body and will affect its absorption if taken in a high dose. 

What is the right dose of Zinc?

The zinc dosage usually differs for people based on their age, gender, and condition. For ideal recommendations, discuss your condition with your doctor first. Below we bring you the average doses of these medicines. Do not follow or change your prescription without the doctor’s concern.

The number of tablets you will consume to the time gap between each consumption also depends on your specific condition. 

In form of oral supplements 

To prevent zinc deficiency, zinc taken orally should be according to the daily recommended intakes, which is usually different from zinc sulfate, zinc gluconate, etc. This is for the actual zinc amount. 

According to Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA)

  • Adult and Teenage Men: 15mg daily
  • Adult and teenage Females: 12mg daily
  • Pregnant women: 15mg daily
  • Breastfeeding moms: 16 to 19mg daily
  • Children from 4 to 10: 10mg daily
  • Infants to 3years: 5 to 10mg daily  

To treat certain Deficiencies 

Treatment doses are recommended by health care practitioners based on the individual’s condition. 

If you miss your Dose

If you miss taking your zinc supplement, take it as soon as possible. But if the time for the next dosage is almost near then skip the missed dose and do not overdose on your supplement. If the supplement is missed for 1 or more days consecutively it will not have serious effects on your body. 

But if you are recommended to treat a specific condition then following the prescription is a must. 

Precautions 

If you are taking zinc, avoid certain foods mentioned below because zinc combined with them affects their absorption in the body and will give no fruitful results. The following should be taken before or 2 hours after zinc consumption: 

  • Bran, fiber-containing foods, Whole grain bread and cereals, and phosphorus-containing food such as milk and poultry. 

Avoid taking zinc supplements with copper, iron, or phosphorus supplements together. To enjoy the full benefits of all supplements give at least a 2 hours gap between them.

Possible Side Effects

Not all effects are likely to occur but a dietary supplement may cause some negative effects. If any such side effects occur it is best to consult your doctor: 

Rare Side Effects

  • Chills
  • Fever
  • Heartburn
  • Indigestion 
  • Sore throat 
  • Weakness or tiredness 
  • Ulcer or sores in mouth or throat 

Symptoms of Overdose 

  • Fainting
  • Vomiting 
  • Yellow skin or eyes
  • Shortness of breath 
  • Chest pain 
  • Dizziness 

Consult your Doctor 

Taking the right supplements starts with the consultation of your doctor. After getting the prescription, shop for your needed Nutrients and Dietary supplements from the most reliable source AvaCare Medical. 

Whether you have appetite issues or medical conditions, you will find all sorts of supplements under one roof with professional consultation as well. Contact us now at AvaCare Medical for further details