[North Xinjiang science experts say: Not that safe] Hidden risks of zinc gluconate

Zinc gluconate is a common zinc supplement, mainly used to treat and prevent zinc deficiency and its related symptoms. Zinc is a trace element that is essential to the human body and is involved in a variety of physiological processes, including enzyme activity, immune system function, cell growth and development, etc. Zinc gluconate is usually used to promote digestion, improve appetite, improve sleep, and increase sperm motility.

However, more and more parents are giving their children or family members too much zinc supplements. Excessive supplementation of zinc gluconate may lead to some adverse reactions and health problems. Although zinc is an essential trace element, excessive intake can also have adverse effects on health.

Here are some possible problems with overdosing on zinc gluconate:

1. Gastrointestinal discomfort: Excessive intake of zinc may cause digestive system symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

2. Copper deficiency: Zinc and copper compete with each other in terms of absorption in the human body. Long-term excessive zinc supplementation may interfere with copper absorption, leading to copper deficiency, which in turn may cause anemia, nervous system problems, decreased immune function, and other problems.

3. Impaired immune function: Although zinc plays an important role in the immune system, excessive intake may suppress immune function and increase the risk of infection.

4. Metal ion imbalance: There is an interaction between the absorption and metabolism of zinc and other minerals (such as calcium, iron, magnesium, etc.). Excessive zinc supplementation may disturb the balance of these minerals and affect their normal functions.

5. Decreased ceruloplasmin levels: Ceruloplasmin is a plasma protein containing copper. Excessive zinc supplementation may lead to a decrease in ceruloplasmin levels, which may be an indicator of copper deficiency.

6. Zinc poisoning: In extreme cases, excessive zinc intake may lead to acute zinc poisoning, which manifests as severe gastrointestinal symptoms, metallic taste, stomatitis, rash, and even coma.

7. Long-term health risks: Long-term excessive zinc supplementation may increase the risk of chronic health problems such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, etc.

Table 1 Reference dietary zinc intake for Chinese residents (mg·d-1)

Notes on zinc gluconate supplementation:

- Zinc gluconate needs to be taken after meals to reduce irritation to the gastrointestinal tract.

- For people who do not have symptoms of zinc deficiency, random supplementation is not recommended because the daily diet can usually provide enough zinc.

- Pregnant women should supplement zinc under the guidance of a doctor, because food supplementation is the safest way.

- It is not recommended to take it with milk as milk may affect the absorption of zinc.

- Concurrent use with certain drugs (such as aluminum hydroxide, calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, tannic acid, etc.) may affect absorption and should be avoided.

- Each bottle (10 ml) of zinc gluconate commonly found on the market contains 25 mg of zinc gluconate (equivalent to 5 mg of zinc), but when purchasing, you should also check the zinc content and then choose the dosage that suits your personal situation.

Health is always our most precious wealth. When supplementing any nutrient, moderation is the key. Like many things in life, too much is as bad as too little. If you have any questions about zinc supplementation, or if you experience any discomfort during the supplementation process, remember to consult a doctor in time, who will provide you with professional guidance. At the same time, maintain a balanced diet and make rich foods your daily source of nutrition, so that you can enjoy delicious food while ensuring your health. May your life be filled with health and happiness!

Contributor: Liu Yang, registered dietitian

Unit: Department of Clinical Nutrition, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University