close up of white zinc powder

10 Important Roles of Zinc

Zinc is a trace mineral, but its role in human health is anything but small. It is involved in the activity of over 300 enzymes, and supports a wide range of essential physiological processes. Despite its importance, suboptimal zinc intake is relatively common, particularly in certain dietary patterns.

Here are 10 evidence-based reasons why dietary zinc deserves a place in a well-balanced nutrition strategy.

1. Immune Function

Zinc contributes to the normal function of the immune system and supports the development and activity of key immune cells. Adequate zinc intake helps maintain the body’s natural defences against everyday environmental challenges.

2. Healthy Skin

Zinc plays a role in normal cell division and protein synthesis, both of which are essential for skin renewal and repair. It also contributes to the maintenance of normal skin and supports normal wound healing.

This makes zinc a common inclusion in skin and beauty-focused nutritional products.

3. Hair and Nail Strength

Through its role in protein synthesis and cellular turnover, zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal hair and nails. Adequate intake supports structural integrity and healthy growth.

4. Cognitive Function

Zinc contributes to normal cognitive function, including aspects such as memory, learning and concentration. It is involved in neurotransmitter activity and synaptic signalling within the brain.

5. Eyes and Vision

Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal vision and plays a role in vitamin A metabolism, supporting the transport of vitamin A to the eye where it is needed for visual pigments.

6. Fertility and Reproductive Health

Zinc contributes to normal fertility and reproduction in both men and women. It also supports normal DNA synthesis and cell division, which are fundamental to reproductive and developmental processes.

7. Testosterone Levels

Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal testosterone levels in the blood. Testosterone is an important hormone for male reproductive health, muscle maintenance, energy levels and overall vitality.

8. Libido and Sexual Health

By supporting healthy testosterone status and overall hormonal balance, adequate zinc intake plays a supportive role in maintaining normal libido and sexual function in men. While zinc is not a treatment for sexual dysfunction, sufficient intake helps support the physiological systems that underpin sexual health.

9. Metabolism

Zinc contributes to the normal metabolism of carbohydrates, fatty acids and vitamin A. It also supports normal protein synthesis and acid-base metabolism, making it important for energy production, tissue repair and metabolic balance.

10. Cell Division and Growth

Zinc contributes to normal DNA synthesis and cell division. These functions are essential for growth, development, tissue maintenance and repair throughout life.

Our Recommendations

Triple Zinc Complex 20mg

Picolinate, Bisglycinate & Citrate with Copper

Our Triple Zinc Complex provides a precise, high-strength daily dose of zinc using three complementary, highly bioavailable forms: zinc picolinate, zinc bisglycinate and zinc citrate. This multi-form approach is designed to optimise absorption and utilisation across different transport pathways in the gut, helping to support consistent zinc status. Each capsule delivers 20 mg of elemental zinc, making it suitable for individuals with higher requirements or those seeking targeted support for immunity, skin, hormonal health and general wellbeing.

Importantly, the formula also contains 2mg of copper, included to help maintain healthy mineral balance. Higher zinc intakes over time can interfere with copper absorption, so the inclusion of copper supports long-term use and helps reduce the risk of imbalance. This makes the Triple Zinc Complex a more complete and clinically structured option compared with single-form zinc supplements.

Key Points

  • Three highly bioavailable zinc forms: picolinate, bisglycinate and citrate
  • 20 mg elemental zinc per capsule
  • Includes 2 mg copper to support mineral balance
  • Predictable, consistent dosing
  • Designed for optimal absorption and tolerance

Best For

  • Targeted daily zinc supplementation
  • Immune, skin, hair and nail support
  • Men’s health and testosterone maintenance
  • Precise dosing and clinical-style formulation

Guava Leaf Extract

Natural Wholefood Zinc from a Plant Source

Guava Leaf provides zinc in a natural, wholefood plant matrix, derived from guava leaf rather than isolated mineral salts - ideal for those seeking a more food-based or plant-derived source of zinc, and those who prefer to avoid conventional mineral forms. Zinc is naturally present within the guava leaf alongside a broad range of plant phytonutrients, creating a more holistic nutrient profile.

Beyond zinc, guava leaf contains polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins and antioxidant compounds such as quercetin, beta-carotene and lycopene. Guava leaf is traditionally used for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and has been studied for roles in skin health, blood sugar balance and digestive support. While these effects are not zinc-specific, they may provide additional functional benefits compared with isolated zinc alone. This makes guava leaf zinc a broader wellness option rather than a purely mineral-focused supplement.

Key Points

  • Zinc provided in a natural wholefood plant matrix
  • Suitable for vegan and plant-based users
  • Contains additional phytonutrients and antioxidants
  • Includes polyphenols and flavonoids from guava leaf
  • Wholefood-style mineral delivery

Best For

  • Plant-based and vegan consumers
  • Those preferring wholefood-derived minerals
  • Individuals sensitive to conventional zinc salts
  • Users seeking antioxidant and broader botanical and support

Oyster Meat Capsules

Wholefood Animal-Derived Zinc and Trace Nutrients

Oyster meat provides zinc in one of its most traditional and naturally bioavailable wholefood forms. Oysters are among the richest dietary sources of zinc, and zinc from oyster tissue is naturally bound to amino acids and peptides, which can support efficient absorption. As a wholefood extract, oyster meat delivers zinc alongside a complex matrix of additional nutrients that are not present in isolated zinc supplements.

Oyster meat naturally contains other trace minerals such as copper, selenium and iodine, as well as amino acids, taurine, omega fatty acids and small peptides. This broader nutrient profile supports overall reproductive, metabolic and cellular health. Historically, oysters have been regarded as an aphrodisiac across multiple cultures, largely due to their exceptionally high zinc content and their association with testosterone production, sperm health and libido. While oysters are not a medical treatment for sexual dysfunction, their traditional reputation reflects their dense nutritional support for male reproductive and hormonal health.

Key Points

  • Wholefood animal-derived zinc source
  • Naturally high zinc content with excellent bioavailability
  • Provides additional trace minerals such as copper and selenium
  • Contains amino acids, taurine and marine-derived nutrients
  • Long history of use for reproductive and sexual health

Best For

  • Men’s health and fertility-focused users
  • Those seeking a traditional, wholefood zinc source
  • Libido and reproductive health nutrition support
  • Users wanting broader trace nutrient intake beyond zinc alone

Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28515951/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2702361/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8875519/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28395131/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20510767/