Zinc - impact, sources & use
Whether eyes, skin or immune system - zinc is essential in many situations. More about the multifaceted trace element in our current portrait.
Zinc comes in countless varieties – but which supplement is right for you and your needs? This article will help you find your way: we'll show you what really matters when it comes to zinc, how to recognise high-quality products and which variety is best suited for you.
Recognising the best zinc: How supplements differ
Have you googled ‘zinc supplements’ and been overwhelmed by the sheer number of products available? Welcome to the club. Whether tablets, capsules or drops – the market is huge. And of course, every supplement promises to be the best. But what many people don't know is that there is no such thing as THE perfect zinc for everyone.
Why? Quite simply: your body, your needs. What works for someone else may not be the best choice for you. This makes it all the more important to know the differences – and to look for genuine quality features.
What is the best form of zinc?
Not all zinc is the same. And this is precisely where the difference lies. Because how well your body can absorb zinc depends heavily on the form used.
While inorganic variants such as zinc oxide or zinc sulphate are often only utilised to a limited extent, organic compounds such as zinc citrate, zinc malate or zinc gluconate perform significantly better.
Particularly valued by experts: zinc bisglycinate and zinc picolinate. In these smart forms, zinc is bound to glycine or picolinic acid, which supports particularly efficient absorption in the body.
Quality that counts: composition & ingredients
A good zinc supplement offers you more than just a strong compound. It also impresses with a well-thought-out, pure formula – free from unnecessary additives, sensibly dosed and developed on the basis of the latest scientific findings.
Would you like to use zinc for a specific area, such as your skin or immune system? Then it's worth taking a look at special combination supplements: these combine zinc with carefully selected micronutrients, plant extracts and other ingredients. Together, they unleash their potential – creating synergies that are more effective than a single ingredient alone.
Dosage forms: Which one's best for you?
Zinc comes in many forms. But sometimes this variety makes choosing the right one a challenge. That's why we've summarised the most important forms for you:
- Zinc tablets are among the classics, but due to the manufacturing process, they often contain unnecessary additives such as colourings or flavourings. It is therefore worth taking a close look at the list of ingredients.
- Zinc capsules impress with their purity – especially when, as in the BIOGENA manufacturing standard, they do not contain any unnecessary technical additives. They are considered hygienic and also have a long shelf life.
- Zinc drops are particularly easy to integrate into everyday life. They can be individually dosed, are flexible to take and practical for on the go. In addition, they also have a local effect when an extra dose of zinc is needed in the throat. One small disadvantage is that drops often have a shorter shelf life than other forms.
Our conclusion: Each shape has its advantages – and its own little quirks. Ultimately, it's the quality that counts – and what suits you and your everyday life best.
Dosage: How much zinc do you actually need?
Zinc is not a one-size-fits-all solution; the dosage is as individual as you are. How much zinc is ideal for you? That depends on many factors: your current zinc status, age, gender, diet – and, of course, the form and composition of your supplement.
- For daily basic care, gently dosed products are a good choice – they are well tolerated, versatile and suitable for young and old alike.
- In the case of a proven deficiency or if you want to provide targeted support for a specific area, higher-dose variants may also be useful.
What dosage is right for you? The best way to find out is to talk to your doctor or micronutrient expert.
Checklist: How to recognise high-quality zinc
✓ Good absorption: Organic zinc compounds such as zinc citrate, zinc malate or zinc gluconate are recommended. Of particular interest are the special forms zinc bisglycinate and zinc picolinate.
✓ Top composition: High-quality raw materials, sensible dosages and modern formulations – developed according to the latest scientific findings.
✓ Pure substance principle: Free from colourings, binding agents, anti-caking agents and other unnecessary technical additives.
✓ Optimal tolerability: Free from allergens, lactose, fructose and gluten.
✓ Uncompromising quality: Strike testing of every batch – including additional external laboratory analyses and test marks.
BIOGENA zinc supplements in comparison
Want to make it easy on yourself and find a high-quality zinc supplement right away? Then BIOGENA is the right choice for you. From gentle to high-dose, as pure capsules or fruity drops – you'll find your personal favourite supplement here.
|
DreiSalz® Zinc 9 mg |
Zinc citrate 30 | Zinc picolinate 15 | Zinc Drops | |
| Compounds | Zink picolinate, Zinc bisglycinate, Zinc malate | Zinc citrate | Zinc picolinate | Zinc gluconate |
| Absorption | Excellent | Very high | Excellent | Very high |
| Tolerability | Excellent | Very high | Excellent | Excellent |
| Special feature | Moderate dosage, also suitable for children (open capsule) | Highly concentrated for targeted use | Highly soluble even at high pH values in the digestive tract | Liquid preparations, suitable for the whole family, pleasant taste |
| Vegan | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Zinc per capsule | 9 mg | 30 mg | 15 mg | 5 mg (per daily dose) |
| To the product | To the product | To the product | To the product |
The right zinc power for every situation
Zinc is a real all-rounder. Whether it's growth, the immune system or performance – this trace element works in the background, but always in crucial areas. Which zinc provides you with optimal support depends on your personal needs.
Best zinc for children
As children grow, zinc is a silent but indispensable companion. It contributes to cell division and thus to normal development.
Practical for everyday use: Liquid zinc is very easy to dose and take – without any discussion at the breakfast table.
Best zinc during pregnancy and when trying to conceive
During pregnancy, zinc requirements increase – no wonder, since everything revolves around growth and development. But zinc also plays a central role when trying to conceive – for both sexes.
That's why zinc is already included in many supplements for fertility and pregnancy. What if your requirements exceed this? Then – in consultation with your gynaecologist – an additional supplement may be advisable.
Our recommendation: tasteless capsules with pure ingredients – for a conscious supply without any frills.
The best zinc for your immune system
Zinc is considered a classic immune booster for good reason: it supports the skin and mucous membranes as natural protective barriers and plays an important role in activating immune cells. It also helps protect cells from oxidative stress.
For extra all-round protection: combination preparations with additional immune supporters such as acerola, bromelain, rockrose or echinacea – because micronutrients usually work even better when taken as a team. And if more zinc is needed directly in the throat, zinc drops provide targeted support on the spot.
Best zinc supplements for men
For men, zinc offers a real double benefit: it helps maintain normal testosterone levels in the blood, thereby supporting both libido and sperm production.
Whether taken on its own or in clever combinations for men, the important thing is quality – and a supplement that suits you and your everyday life.
Best zinc for athletes
Do you push your body hard when you exercise? Then zinc has a lot to do: it contributes to normal protein synthesis and supports testosterone levels – both of which are important for regeneration, muscle building and performance.
Popular with active people: ZMB6 – a smart formula of zinc, magnesium and vitamin B6 that supports your energy metabolism, muscle function and combats fatigue.
Best zinc for stress
Stress puts strain on your body and mind – and can significantly increase your zinc requirements. This trace element supports your brain metabolism, helps you think clearly and contributes to maintaining your inner balance. Zinc also protects your cells from free radicals and supports your acid-base balance – valuable benefits when things get turbulent.
Our tip: Opt for combinations that also contain magnesium, B vitamins or coenzyme Q10, for example – this way you can harness the full power of zinc.
Best zinc for sensitive digestion
If you have a sensitive gastrointestinal tract, you need zinc in a form that is particularly well tolerated. Zinc bisglycinate and zinc picolinate are particularly effective here due to their efficient yet gentle absorption.
Preparations manufactured according to the pure substance principle are also ideal – free from unnecessary additives, lactose, gluten or fructose. This gives your body what it needs without putting additional strain on your digestion.
Tip: Taking it with a meal, preferably in the evening, can further improve tolerability.
Our best rated zinc supplement: BIOGENA DreiSalz® Zinc
With DreiSalz® Zinc, you get zinc in its best form! Our product development team has used its expertise and meticulous care to combine three highly bioavailable zinc compounds in one capsule: zinc picolinate, zinc bisglycinate and zinc malate – better known as apple zinc.
The result? A clear, smart formula – well-balanced, easily tolerated and ideal for your daily zinc intake. For you. For your family. For every day.
Research shows: The great strength of BIOGENA ThreeSalt® Zinc 9 mg? Its solubility!
The absorption capacity of zinc depends largely on its solubility in the digestive system: The compounds zinc malate, zinc picolinate and zinc bisglycinate contained in Dreisalz® Zinc 9 mg are characterised by excellent solubility of over 90% in the pH range 1 to 8. In contrast, the frequently recommended and used zinc oxide shows a drastically poorer solubility with increasing pH values – and is therefore significantly less usable for our bodies.
Conclusion
High-quality zinc supplements set standards – from the first ingredient to the final quality control. The key is highly bioavailable zinc compounds, combined in formulations and dosages that are state-of-the-art. Equally important: exceptional purity and the strictest testing of every batch. And the icing on the cake? A supplement that perfectly suits your individual needs. Your doctor or micronutrient expert will be happy to provide you with advice and assistance.
Any questions about the best zinc supplements? We're happy to answer them!
Zinc bisglycinate and zinc picolinate are considered to have excellent bioavailability. Otherwise, organic zinc compounds such as zinc citrate or zinc gluconate are generally better absorbed than inorganic variants such as zinc oxide or zinc sulphate.
Zinc can only reach its full potential if you take it regularly and your body can absorb it well. Experience has shown that zinc is generally well tolerated, especially in the evening. Taking it with a meal further increases its tolerability. However, for the best possible absorption, it is recommended to take zinc between meals.
There is currently no reliable evidence that one particular zinc compound protects the prostate better than others. It is important to choose a compound that is easily absorbed and a sensible dosage that is tailored to your individual needs.
References:
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Marktl, W. 2021. Zink – Funktion, Physiologie und Bedarf. Journal für Ernährungsmedizin, März 2021. https://jem.at/2021/ernaehrungsmedizin/zink-funktion-physiologie-und-bedarf/
R. L. Bailey, K. et al. 2015. The epidemiology of global micro nutrient deficiencies. Ann. Nutr. Metab., Bd. 66 Suppl 2, S. 22–33, 2015. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26045325/
I. Elmadfa, Institut für Ernährungswissenschaften (Wien), Österreich, und Bundesministerium für Gesundheit, Österreichischer Ernährungsbericht 2012. Wien: Bundesministerium für Gesundheit, 2012. https://ernaehrungsbericht2016.univie.ac.at/fileadmin/user_upload/dep_ernaehrung/forschung/ernaehrungsberichte/oesterr_ernaehrungsbericht_2012.pdf
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A. Malik, et. al. 2014. Zinc supple mentation for prevention of acute respiratory infections in infants: a ran domized controlled trial. Indian Pediatr, Bd. 51, Nr. 10, S. 780–784, Okt. 2014.
DeRuisseau K.C. et al. 2002. Sweat iron and zinc losses during prolonged exercise. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2002 Dec;12(4):428-37. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12500986/
Sanusi, K.O. et al. 2021. Effect of maternal zinc deficiency on offspring health: The epigenetic impact. J Trace Elem Med Biol. 2021 May:65:126731. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33610057/
https://www.mikronaehrstoffcoach.com/de/at/mikronaehrstoffe/micronutrient.zink.html#Labordiagnostik , Access: 13.8.2025.Deutsche Gesellschaft für Ernährung e.V.: https://www.dge.de/wissenschaft/referenzwerte/zink/, Access: 13.8.2025
