Overview

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 7 Researches
7.1
USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 6 Reviews
7
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Vegetarian Capsule
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Zinc (as OptiZinc® zinc monomethionine, zinc citrate)
50 mg
455%

Top Medical Research Studies

9
Zinc's Role in Liver Health
We focused on the connection between zinc and liver health, particularly how it may influence conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and metabolic issues, including type II diabetes (T2D). Our analysis of data from a large genetics cohort revealed a significant finding: rare genetic variants that reduce the function of the zinc transporter SLC39A5 were linked to better metabolic profiles and lower T2D risk.

To delve deeper into these results, we used both laboratory and animal models. We developed mice that completely lacked SLC39A5 and observed promising outcomes. These mice showcased improved liver function and lower blood sugar levels after being subjected to obesity challenges, whether congenital or diet-induced.

Notably, this improvement seemed to be associated with increased levels of zinc in the liver, which activated key signaling pathways involved in metabolism, such as AMPK and AKT. Furthermore, these mice exhibited less liver inflammation and fibrosis in models of diet-induced non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

Together, these findings position SLC39A5 as a potentially valuable target for treating liver-related metabolic disorders, emphasizing zinc's crucial role in managing liver health and blood sugar regulation.
Read More
9
Zinc supplementation and liver health
We explored how zinc supplementation could help manage cholestatic liver disease, a condition that currently lacks effective treatment options. Our study involved both mice and human participants, revealing interesting changes in gut microbiome dynamics when zinc was introduced. Specifically, we noted that zinc boosts levels of a beneficial bacterium called Blautia producta, which in turn helps produce p-coumaric acid.

The fascinating part is that higher p-coumaric acid levels were linked to reduced liver injury in patients with cholestatic liver disease. In experiments with mice, we found that the protective effects of zinc were partly due to the ability of p-coumaric acid to limit harmful reactive oxygen species in liver cells. This suggests that p-coumaric acid directly supports liver health by preventing cell death and damage.

However, the benefits of zinc were less pronounced when we manipulated the production of p-coumaric acid. This implies that the relationship between zinc, gut bacteria, and liver health is quite intricate. Overall, our findings suggest that zinc may provide valuable support for individuals suffering from cholestatic liver disease, primarily through its influence on the gut microbiome and subsequent metabolic processes.
Read More
8
Zinc levels correlate with liver disease
We explored the impact of zinc on liver disease by focusing on its levels in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis. This study involved 100 individuals with advanced liver issues and another 100 healthy individuals for comparison.

Our findings revealed that serum zinc levels were significantly lower in cirrhotic patients compared to healthy controls. In fact, the levels were remarkably diminished, indicating a potential deficiency in those suffering from liver complications.

Moreover, we observed a strong inverse relationship between zinc levels and the severity of liver disease, as measured by the Child-Pugh score and the grading of hepatic encephalopathy. This means that as zinc levels dropped, the severity of liver disease increased.

Notably, those with the most severe forms of liver disease also had critical zinc deficiencies. We also highlighted the positive correlation between zinc levels and albumin, suggesting that albumin might play a crucial role in the transport of zinc within the body.

Given these findings, we recommend that monitoring and potentially supplementing zinc in patients with liver cirrhosis could be beneficial, especially for those experiencing complications tied to their liver condition.
Read More

Most Useful Reviews

7.5
Supports liver health
2 people found this helpful
To combat hair loss, I've started taking this zinc supplement, especially as my liver feels tired and I consume alcohol frequently. The small capsules are easy to take, and with just one capsule daily providing 50 mg of zinc, I'm hopeful it will support my liver health.
Read More
0
Discomfort reported
1 people found this helpful
Unfortunately, I couldn't tolerate this zinc supplement. After gastric surgery, it caused gastrointestinal issues, prompting regurgitation. Despite several attempts, I faced stomach pain and nausea. The quality does not meet my expectations and it's unsuitable for my situation.
Read More
0
Supports autoimmune condition
I take zinc due to an autoimmune disease. This digestible form is effective, but it's crucial to add copper when taking 50 mg of zinc. Avoid zinc oxide as it’s ineffective and won’t benefit liver disease treatment.
Read More

Medical Researches

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 7 Researches
7.1
  • All Researches
9
Zinc's Role in Liver Health
We focused on the connection between zinc and liver health, particularly how it may influence conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and metabolic issues, including type II diabetes (T2D). Our analysis of data from a large genetics cohort revealed a significant finding: rare genetic variants that reduce the function of the zinc transporter SLC39A5 were linked to better metabolic profiles and lower T2D risk.

To delve deeper into these results, we used both laboratory and animal models. We developed mice that completely lacked SLC39A5 and observed promising outcomes. These mice showcased improved liver function and lower blood sugar levels after being subjected to obesity challenges, whether congenital or diet-induced.

Notably, this improvement seemed to be associated with increased levels of zinc in the liver, which activated key signaling pathways involved in metabolism, such as AMPK and AKT. Furthermore, these mice exhibited less liver inflammation and fibrosis in models of diet-induced non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

Together, these findings position SLC39A5 as a potentially valuable target for treating liver-related metabolic disorders, emphasizing zinc's crucial role in managing liver health and blood sugar regulation.
Read More
9
Zinc supplementation and liver health
We explored how zinc supplementation could help manage cholestatic liver disease, a condition that currently lacks effective treatment options. Our study involved both mice and human participants, revealing interesting changes in gut microbiome dynamics when zinc was introduced. Specifically, we noted that zinc boosts levels of a beneficial bacterium called Blautia producta, which in turn helps produce p-coumaric acid.

The fascinating part is that higher p-coumaric acid levels were linked to reduced liver injury in patients with cholestatic liver disease. In experiments with mice, we found that the protective effects of zinc were partly due to the ability of p-coumaric acid to limit harmful reactive oxygen species in liver cells. This suggests that p-coumaric acid directly supports liver health by preventing cell death and damage.

However, the benefits of zinc were less pronounced when we manipulated the production of p-coumaric acid. This implies that the relationship between zinc, gut bacteria, and liver health is quite intricate. Overall, our findings suggest that zinc may provide valuable support for individuals suffering from cholestatic liver disease, primarily through its influence on the gut microbiome and subsequent metabolic processes.
Read More
8
Zinc levels correlate with liver disease
We explored the impact of zinc on liver disease by focusing on its levels in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis. This study involved 100 individuals with advanced liver issues and another 100 healthy individuals for comparison.

Our findings revealed that serum zinc levels were significantly lower in cirrhotic patients compared to healthy controls. In fact, the levels were remarkably diminished, indicating a potential deficiency in those suffering from liver complications.

Moreover, we observed a strong inverse relationship between zinc levels and the severity of liver disease, as measured by the Child-Pugh score and the grading of hepatic encephalopathy. This means that as zinc levels dropped, the severity of liver disease increased.

Notably, those with the most severe forms of liver disease also had critical zinc deficiencies. We also highlighted the positive correlation between zinc levels and albumin, suggesting that albumin might play a crucial role in the transport of zinc within the body.

Given these findings, we recommend that monitoring and potentially supplementing zinc in patients with liver cirrhosis could be beneficial, especially for those experiencing complications tied to their liver condition.
Read More
8
Zinc sulfate shows antifibrotic potential
We undertook a study to assess the effects of zinc sulfate on liver fibrosis in patients suffering from chronic Hepatitis C Virus (HCV). In a randomized design, 50 individuals with early-stage fibrosis were split into two groups. One group received standard antiviral therapy, while the other group received the same therapy supplemented with 50 mg of zinc sulfate daily for three months.

Our observations revealed that those in the zinc group experienced notable increases in serum zinc levels. Additionally, markers associated with liver injury, such as fibronectin and hyaluronic acid, showed a significant decline compared to the control group. We also noted that the Aspartate Transaminase-to-Platelet-Ratio Index (APRI), which indicates liver fibrosis, was lower in the zinc group after treatment.

However, there was no significant difference in another liver fibrosis index, the FIB-4 score, between the two groups after the three-month period. This led us to conclude that while zinc sulfate appears to hold promise as a supportive therapy for managing liver fibrosis in chronic HCV patients, more research is needed to fully understand its isolated effects.
Read More
We examined the role of zinc treatment in managing Wilson's disease, particularly in a unique case involving a young toddler. Wilson's disease is a genetic disorder that leads to copper buildup in the body, often presenting symptoms in childhood. In the case we observed, the patient underwent various treatments, including zinc acetate after initially experiencing side effects from D-penicillamine.

Zinc treatment is known to help manage copper levels by inhibiting copper absorption in the intestines. In our case study, the toddler responded positively to zinc therapy after discontinuing the first medication. Despite the overall effectiveness of zinc being difficult to isolate since it was used following another drug, it highlights an encouraging alternative for managing Wilson's disease, especially in younger patients.

Additionally, the complexities surrounding zinc's role are underscored by genetic variations that may impact treatment response. This aspect reminds us that each patient's journey with liver disease can differ significantly based on genetic and environmental factors.
Read More

User Reviews

USERS' SCORE
Moderately Good
Based on 6 Reviews
7
  • All Reviews
  • Positive Reviews
  • Negative Reviews
7.5
Supports liver health
2 people found this helpful
To combat hair loss, I've started taking this zinc supplement, especially as my liver feels tired and I consume alcohol frequently. The small capsules are easy to take, and with just one capsule daily providing 50 mg of zinc, I'm hopeful it will support my liver health.
Read More
0
Discomfort reported
1 people found this helpful
Unfortunately, I couldn't tolerate this zinc supplement. After gastric surgery, it caused gastrointestinal issues, prompting regurgitation. Despite several attempts, I faced stomach pain and nausea. The quality does not meet my expectations and it's unsuitable for my situation.
Read More
0
Supports autoimmune condition
I take zinc due to an autoimmune disease. This digestible form is effective, but it's crucial to add copper when taking 50 mg of zinc. Avoid zinc oxide as it’s ineffective and won’t benefit liver disease treatment.
Read More
7.5
Boosts immune response
1 people found this helpful
I now take zinc with D3 to aid recovery post-coronavirus. Alongside my husband, I find it supportive for energy and combating chronic fatigue, especially beneficial for those over 50. I had a mild case of covid, and I recommend it for enhanced immune response.
Read More
7.5
Enhances immune health
1 people found this helpful
Zinc is effective in boosting the immune system, providing natural antioxidants, and promoting cardiovascular health. For those deficient due to diet, this supplement can help address the body's zinc requirements and combat potential liver disease.
Read More

Frequently Asked Questions

4
Improves overall vitality
Zinc is essential, fighting bacteria and viruses while regulating blood sugar. I experienced fatigue and poor sleep before taking zinc, but now I feel energetic and my health has improved significantly. It's vital for my overall vitality and supports recovery, especially post-covid.
0
Discomfort reported
1 people found this helpful
Unfortunately, I couldn't tolerate this zinc supplement. After gastric surgery, it caused gastrointestinal issues, prompting regurgitation. Despite several attempts, I faced stomach pain and nausea. The quality does not meet my expectations and it's unsuitable for my situation.
7.5
Boosts immune response
1 people found this helpful
I now take zinc with D3 to aid recovery post-coronavirus. Alongside my husband, I find it supportive for energy and combating chronic fatigue, especially beneficial for those over 50. I had a mild case of covid, and I recommend it for enhanced immune response.
0
Supports autoimmune condition
I take zinc due to an autoimmune disease. This digestible form is effective, but it's crucial to add copper when taking 50 mg of zinc. Avoid zinc oxide as it’s ineffective and won’t benefit liver disease treatment.
8
Zinc levels correlate with liver disease
We explored the impact of zinc on liver disease by focusing on its levels in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis. This study involved 100 individuals with advanced liver issues and another 100 healthy individuals for comparison.

Our findings revealed that serum zinc levels were significantly lower in cirrhotic patients compared to healthy controls. In fact, the levels were remarkably diminished, indicating a potential deficiency in those suffering from liver complications.

Moreover, we observed a strong inverse relationship between zinc levels and the severity of liver disease, as measured by the Child-Pugh score and the grading of hepatic encephalopathy. This means that as zinc levels dropped, the severity of liver disease increased.

Notably, those with the most severe forms of liver disease also had critical zinc deficiencies. We also highlighted the positive correlation between zinc levels and albumin, suggesting that albumin might play a crucial role in the transport of zinc within the body.

Given these findings, we recommend that monitoring and potentially supplementing zinc in patients with liver cirrhosis could be beneficial, especially for those experiencing complications tied to their liver condition.
4
Zinc shows limited effects on liver
We conducted a study to explore the effects of probiotics and zinc on patients with decompensated cirrhosis, particularly focusing on those with a history of overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE). In this open-label randomized controlled trial, we enrolled 45 eligible patients and divided them into three groups. Each group received different combinations of lactulose, probiotics, and zinc over a three-month period.

Our findings revealed that neither probiotics nor zinc had any significant impact on the recurrence of OHE, ammonia levels, or the Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) score. However, we did observe that both probiotics alone and in combination with zinc enhanced certain aspects of health-related quality of life (HRQoL), particularly in mental health areas. Interestingly, when zinc was combined with probiotics, we noted improvements in physical HRQoL and sleep quality compared to the control group that received only lactulose.

Overall, while zinc treatment didn't show clear benefits on OHE recurrence or ammonia levels, combining it with probiotics did contribute positively to the patients' quality of life and sleep. Our study highlights the importance of holistic approaches in managing liver-related health challenges.
8
Zinc sulfate shows antifibrotic potential
We undertook a study to assess the effects of zinc sulfate on liver fibrosis in patients suffering from chronic Hepatitis C Virus (HCV). In a randomized design, 50 individuals with early-stage fibrosis were split into two groups. One group received standard antiviral therapy, while the other group received the same therapy supplemented with 50 mg of zinc sulfate daily for three months.

Our observations revealed that those in the zinc group experienced notable increases in serum zinc levels. Additionally, markers associated with liver injury, such as fibronectin and hyaluronic acid, showed a significant decline compared to the control group. We also noted that the Aspartate Transaminase-to-Platelet-Ratio Index (APRI), which indicates liver fibrosis, was lower in the zinc group after treatment.

However, there was no significant difference in another liver fibrosis index, the FIB-4 score, between the two groups after the three-month period. This led us to conclude that while zinc sulfate appears to hold promise as a supportive therapy for managing liver fibrosis in chronic HCV patients, more research is needed to fully understand its isolated effects.
9
Zinc supplementation and liver health
We explored how zinc supplementation could help manage cholestatic liver disease, a condition that currently lacks effective treatment options. Our study involved both mice and human participants, revealing interesting changes in gut microbiome dynamics when zinc was introduced. Specifically, we noted that zinc boosts levels of a beneficial bacterium called Blautia producta, which in turn helps produce p-coumaric acid.

The fascinating part is that higher p-coumaric acid levels were linked to reduced liver injury in patients with cholestatic liver disease. In experiments with mice, we found that the protective effects of zinc were partly due to the ability of p-coumaric acid to limit harmful reactive oxygen species in liver cells. This suggests that p-coumaric acid directly supports liver health by preventing cell death and damage.

However, the benefits of zinc were less pronounced when we manipulated the production of p-coumaric acid. This implies that the relationship between zinc, gut bacteria, and liver health is quite intricate. Overall, our findings suggest that zinc may provide valuable support for individuals suffering from cholestatic liver disease, primarily through its influence on the gut microbiome and subsequent metabolic processes.

References

  1. Semeya AA, Elgamal R, Othman AAA. Correlation of Serum Zinc Levels with Hepatic Encephalopathy Severity in Patients with Decompensated Liver Cirrhosis: A Prospective Observational Study from Egypt. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2025. 10.1007/s12011-025-04544-x
  2. Afşar E, Kantar D. How does zinc chelation affect liver sphingolipid metabolism in an Alzheimer's-like model?. J Trace Elem Med Biol. 2025;87:127589. 10.1016/j.jtemb.2025.127589
  3. Amooyi L, Alizadeh L, Sarbakhsh P, Shojaei-Zarghani S, Gharekhani A. The Effects of Adding Probiotic, Alone and in Combination With Zinc, to Routine Treatment on Recurrence of Hepatic Encephalopathy, Quality of Life, and Sleep Quality in Patients With Cirrhosis: An Open-Label Randomized Controlled Trial. Food Sci Nutr. 2025;13:e4636. 10.1002/fsn3.4636
  4. El-Haggar SM, Attalla DS, Elhelbawy M, El-Afify DR. A randomized clinical study to evaluate the possible antifibrotic effect of zinc sulfate in chronic HCV patient receiving direct-acting anti-viral therapy. Inflammopharmacology. 2025;33:329. 10.1007/s10787-024-01628-3
  5. Chim SM, Howell K, Dronzek J, Wu W, Van Hout C, et al. Genetic inactivation of zinc transporter SLC39A5 improves liver function and hyperglycemia in obesogenic settings. Elife. 2024;12. 10.7554/eLife.90419
  6. La Rosa A, Covone AE, Coviello D, Arrigo S, Ferro J, et al. Early Onset of Wilson's Disease and Possible Role of Disease-Modifying Genes: A Case Report and Literature Review. Case Reports Hepatol. 2024;2024:3815089. 10.1155/crhe/3815089
  7. Li D, Wan M, Xue L, Zhang Z, Qiu Y, et al. Zinc promotes microbial p-coumaric acid production that protects against cholestatic liver injury. Cell Host Microbe. 2024;32:2195. 10.1016/j.chom.2024.11.002
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