Meta Information

ID:zinc

Name:Zinc

Schema Version:1.5

Title

Zinc

Alternate Names

• Zinc Picolinate
• Zinc Gluconate
• Zinc Citrate
• Zinc Orotate

Intervention Type

therapeutic_agent

Expected Cost Mean

Low Cost:

5

High Cost:

15

Cost Type:

monthly

Description:

Widely available and inexpensive over-the-counter supplement.

Summary

Zinc is an essential mineral that functions as a cofactor for hundreds of enzymes involved in critical processes like immune function, DNA synthesis and repair, and antioxidant defense. Maintaining optimal zinc status is crucial for immune cell development and signaling, particularly T-cell function, which tends to decline with age. By supporting these fundamental cellular operations, zinc helps maintain systemic resilience against stressors and pathogens, a cornerstone of healthspan.

Purpose

Essential mineral for immune function, DNA repair, and antioxidant defense.

Card Summary

An essential mineral cofactor supporting robust immune function, DNA integrity, and antioxidant systems.

Drug Class

Drugs In Class

• zinc-supplementation
• zinc-picolinate
• zinc-carnosine
• zinc-gluconate

Impact

Score:

5.5

Justification:

Crucial for correcting common deficiencies that impair immune function and cellular repair.

Evidence

Grade:

A

Score:

8.5

Justification:

Extensive human RCTs and meta-analyses confirm its role in immune health.

Safety

Score:

3.2

Justification:

Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS), but high doses can induce copper deficiency.

Flags

• Chronic high doses (>40 mg/day) can interfere with copper absorption, leading to deficiency.
• May cause nausea or stomach upset, especially when taken on an empty stomach.
• Can reduce the absorption of quinolone and tetracycline antibiotics.
• Zinc sufficiency is key; excessive intake provides no additional healthspan benefit.

Verdict

Correct deficiency to support foundational immune and cellular health.

Created

2026-04-24T00:01:34.031708Z

Model

Gemini 3.1 Pro (High)

Delivery

Route:

oral

Scope:

• systemic

Indication

Focus:

healthspan

Description:

Zinc is an essential mineral that functions as a cofactor for hundreds of enzymes involved in critical processes like immune function, DNA synthesis and repair, and antioxidant defense. Maintaining op...

Typical Protocol

• Take 15-30 mg of a chelated form like picolinate or gluconate daily with food.
• Ensure adequate copper intake (e.g., 1-2 mg) to prevent zinc-induced deficiency.