What is Zinc?
Zinc is an essential trace element – the body cannot produce it itself and is entirely dependent on intake through food or supplements. Involved in over 300 enzymes, zinc is one of the most important micronutrients.
Approved Health Claims for Zinc (HCVO)
According to the European Health Claims Regulation (HCVO/EC No. 1924/2006), the following claims for zinc are officially approved:
- Zinc contributes to the normal function of the immune system
- Zinc contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress
- Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal skin
- Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal hair
- Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal nails
- Zinc contributes to normal DNA synthesis
- Zinc contributes to normal protein synthesis
- Zinc contributes to normal fertility and reproduction
- Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal bones
- Zinc contributes to normal cognitive function
- Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal vision
- Zinc has a role in the process of cell division
- Zinc contributes to normal macronutrient metabolism
⚠️ Note: All other claims of effect are not permitted in the EU unless covered by the HCVO.
Zinc Forms Compared: Why Bisglycinate?
| Form |
Bioavailability |
Tolerability |
Special feature |
| Zinc Bisglycinate |
Very high |
Very good |
Chelate form, stomach-friendly |
| Zinc Citrate |
High |
Good |
Widely used |
| Zinc Gluconate |
Medium |
Good |
Common in lozenges |
| Zinc Sulfate |
Medium |
Moderate |
Can cause stomach problems |
| Zinc Oxide |
Low |
Moderate |
Common in cheap products |
Zinc Bisglycinate is a chelate compound of zinc and the amino acid glycine – particularly stomach-friendly and with high bioavailability. Ideal for daily intake.
How much zinc per day?
The German Nutrition Society (DGE) recommends:
- Women: 7–10 mg/day
- Men: 11–16 mg/day
- Pregnant women: 9–13 mg/day
- Lactating women: 11–13 mg/day
Tip: It is best to take zinc on an empty stomach or between meals – calcium and iron can inhibit absorption.
Who has an increased zinc requirement?
-
Vegetarians & Vegans – zinc from plant sources is absorbed less effectively
-
Athletes – increased loss through sweating
-
Elderly people – absorption decreases with age
-
Pregnant & lactating women – increased demand
-
People with gastrointestinal diseases – impaired absorption
Zinc in the Diet
| Food |
Zinc per 100 g |
| Oysters |
~22 mg |
| Beef liver |
~6 mg |
| Beef |
~4–5 mg |
| Pumpkin seeds |
~7 mg |
| Emmental cheese |
~4 mg |
| Lentils (cooked) |
~1.5 mg |
| Oat flakes |
~4 mg |
Animal sources provide zinc in a more usable form than plant-based ones. Those who eat little meat should monitor their zinc status.
Our Zinc Products at a Glance
Our main product for targeted zinc supply: 25 mg Zinc Bisglycinate per tablet in the highly bioavailable chelate form. 500 tablets for a long-term supply. Zinc contributes to the normal function of the immune system and to the protection of cells from oxidative stress.
The delicious combination: Magnesium, zinc and vitamin B6 as gummies – ideal for those who don't like tablets.
Zinc as part of a comprehensive multivitamin complex – for daily all-round supply.
Zinc and the Immune System: Particularly Relevant in Autumn and Winter
Zinc contributes to the normal function of the immune system – this is scientifically recognized by the HCVO. Especially in the autumn and winter months, when the cold season begins, many people pay particular attention to their micronutrient supply.
An adequate zinc supply throughout the year is more sensible than short-term high doses – the body cannot store zinc and needs a regular supply.
Conclusion
Zinc is one of the most versatile trace elements with a variety of approved health claims – from the immune system to skin and hair and cognitive function. For optimal absorption, choose zinc bisglycinate as a stomach-friendly chelate form with high bioavailability.
👉 Discover our Zinc Bisglycinate – 25 mg, 500 tablets, Made in Germany.
This article is for general information only and does not replace medical advice.
