Benefits of Elemental Zinc

—Jill Fandrich, PharmD, CRPh

Elemental zinc, also known as zinc bisglycinate or zinc picolinate, is a crucial mineral that plays several vital roles in the body. Here are some of the benefits of consuming elemental zinc:

1. Enhances immune function - Zinc is essential for the proper functioning of the immune system. It helps in the production and maturation of immune cells, such as T-cells and natural killer cells, responsible for fighting off infections and diseases. Consuming zinc can help boost your immune response, reducing the risk of illnesses.

2. Supports wound healing - Zinc is involved in various stages of the wound healing process. It helps to promote cell growth and division, collagen synthesis, and tissue repair. Adequate zinc levels are necessary for proper wound healing, especially for those with chronic wounds or certain skin conditions.

3. Improves cognitive function - Zinc is involved in several cognitive processes, including memory, attention, and learning. It regulates the communication between brain cells and protects against oxidative stress, which can have detrimental effects on cognitive function. Adequate zinc intake is crucial for optimal brain health and may help in preventing age-related cognitive decline.

4. Supports reproductive health - Zinc is vital for both male and female reproductive health. In males, it helps in the production of testosterone and other male sex hormones, contributing to sperm production and fertility. In females, zinc plays a role in hormone regulation and the maturation of eggs. Adequate zinc levels are essential for healthy reproductive function in both genders.

5. Promotes skin health - Zinc has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help in the management of various skin conditions, such as acne, eczema, and dermatitis. It aids in reducing inflammation, controlling oil production, and regulating the activity of certain enzymes involved in skin health. Topical or oral zinc supplementation may be beneficial for maintaining healthy skin.

6. Supports healthy hair and nails - Zinc is essential for the growth and maintenance of healthy hair and nails. It plays a role in the production of keratin, a protein that forms the building blocks of hair and nails. A zinc deficiency can lead to weak and brittle hair and nails, while sufficient intake can promote their strength and resilience.

7. Assists in metabolism and digestion - Zinc is involved in numerous enzymatic reactions in the body, supporting proper metabolism and digestion. It aids in the breakdown and absorption of nutrients from food and is necessary to convert food into energy. Zinc also plays a role in the synthesis and release of digestive enzymes, promoting efficient digestion.

It is worth noting that while zinc supplementation can be beneficial for those with deficiencies or specific health conditions, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplementation regimen to determine the appropriate dosage and suitability for your individual needs.

In his book Infected, Ralph LaGuardia, M.D. states that zinc is a mineral that over two hundred enzymes in your body require to function properly. Zinc is also deadly to viruses, which is why over-the-counter cold treatments such as Zicam are so popular.

Zinc can help fight off respiratory tract infections such as colds, the flu, pneumonia, and coronavirus. Zinc also functions as an antioxidant, although the mechanism for that is not clear. There are no significant side effects of zinc.

Zinc is essential for healing the skin and mucosa lining of your mouth and can be helpful for acne and eczema. It can also accelerate healing in patients recently having surgery and for burn patients as well.

Zinc is known to support and boost immunity and decrease inflammation and, as such, is essential in any plan to treat an infection, especially viral respiratory infections. 

Studies have shown that zinc will prevent the reproduction of coronavirus in your throat and nasopharynx. Therefore, it is very likely that it will also prevent the production of other respiratory viruses that infect the same area (Infected by Ralph LaGuardia, MD.)

Zinc is also essential for growth, and deficiencies during childhood will result in stunted growth. Zinc is involved in protein production as well as DNA production. It is water soluble and easily absorbed in your body.

Elemental zinc is the actual amount of zinc contained in a supplement or compound and the quantity absorbed by the body. Shared by the Frontline COVID-19 Critical Care Alliance (FLCCC Alliance) non-profit organization:

Signs of zinc deficiency include:
• Unexplained weight loss
• Poor wound healing
• Skin rashes/acne
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Frequent infections
• Hair loss
• Delayed sexual maturation
• Lack of taste and smell

Zinc is important for:
• Wound healing
• Protein synthesis
• Maintaining taste and smell
• Reproductive health

Foods that contain zinc:
• Oysters
• Beef
• Chicken
• Tofu
• Pumpkin seeds
• Lentils
• Yogurt
• Oatmeal

There are many different types of elemental zinc:
Zinc Oxide: Contains as much as 80% elemental zinc. Not as bioavailable as other forms. It is commonly used in sunscreens, diaper rash treatments, and creams for skin irritations.
Zinc Citrate: Contains approximately 34% elemental zinc. Well-tolerated and easily absorbed.
Zinc Acetate: Contains approximately 30% elemental zinc. It is often used in lozenges for the common cold.
Zinc Sulfate: Contains approximately 23% elemental zinc. It is often used in eye treatment products.
Zinc Picolinate: Contains approximately 21% elemental zinc. This form is often used in supplements due to its high bioavailability.
Zinc Monomethionine: Contains approximately 21% elemental zinc. It is bioavailable and often used in supplements for immune support.
Zinc Rotate: Contains approximately 20% elemental zinc. Well-absorbed and often used in supplements for a variety of conditions.
Zinc Gluconate: Contains approximately 14% elemental zinc—one of the most common over-the-counter forms of zinc and is typically used in lozenges for the common cold.

Based on research, Zinc Picolinate and Zinc Monomethionine are often recommended as they have high amounts of elemental zinc and are more easily absorbed by your body. Practitioners advise which zinc to choose based on the patient’s health needs.

Download FLCCC's Nutrient Guide, ‘From A to Zinc’ here: https://covid19criticalcare.com/tools-and-guides/from-a-to-zinc-the-flccc-nutrient-guide/

In the I-CARE: Early COVID Treatment protocol, dosing and administration are 75–100 mg/day.

To learn more about FLCCC's protocols, click here:
https://covid19criticalcare.com/covid-19-protocols/

To learn more, click here:
https://flccc.net

Infected: Secrets From the Medical Underground - How to Prevent and Treat Any Infection, by Ralph LaGuardia, MD, 2021, www.writersrepublic.com

Like the sturdy foundations that hold a magnificent structure together, elemental zinc fortifies our health, supporting a strong body and a sharp mind.

—Dr. Jill

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