We explored the relationship between serum zinc levels and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) in a study that compared patients with CFS to normal volunteers. By using an atomic absorption method, we measured serum zinc concentrations and found that those suffering from CFS had significantly lower levels of zinc compared to healthy individuals.
Interestingly, we observed a trend indicating that lower zinc levels correlated with greater CFS severity. Patients also reported a negative correlation between their zinc levels and their subjective experiences of infection. This suggests that zinc plays a role in the immune dysfunction commonly seen in CFS.
Furthermore, we noted that lower serum zinc was associated with higher levels of inflammatory markers and certain defects in the early activation of T cells. Since zinc acts as a potent antioxidant, our findings indicate that CFS is linked to increased oxidative stress in these patients. Given this, it may be beneficial for some CFS patients to consider zinc supplements as part of their treatment approach.
Read More
9
Zinc may reduce long COVID symptoms
Epipharyngeal Abrasive Therapy (EAT) Has Potential as a Novel Method for Long COVID Treatment.
We evaluated the effects of zinc treatment on individuals with long COVID, focusing on how it relates to chronic fatigue syndrome. Our study involved 58 patients who underwent a unique therapy called Epipharyngeal Abrasive Therapy (EAT), which utilized zinc chloride as an anti-inflammatory agent for the epipharynx.
Participants were treated once a week for a month, and we measured the intensity of their symptoms, specifically fatigue, headaches, and attention disorders, using a visual analog scale (VAS). Remarkably, we found that EAT reduced inflammation in the epipharynx and resulted in significant improvements in the reported intensity of these symptoms.
We believe these findings highlight the potential role of zinc in managing symptoms associated with long COVID and possibly chronic fatigue syndrome. While the evidence is encouraging, it remains essential to conduct more in-depth research to truly understand the specific effects of zinc and ensure these benefits are consistently reproducible.
Read More
8
Oral supplement improves long COVID
Potential Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Fatigue Effects of an Oral Food Supplement in Long COVID Patients.
We conducted a clinical trial to examine how an oral food supplement (OFS) could impact patients suffering from long COVID, particularly focusing on inflammation and fatigue. This was a robust study design, featuring a double-blind, placebo-controlled setup that included 2 capsules of the supplement daily over two months.
The supplement contained a mix of ingredients like rosehip, propolis, royal jelly, zinc, and vitamin C. While zinc was part of the mix, we observed significant results in inflammation reduction through various parameters, such as a decrease in the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and C-reactive protein levels. However, we couldn’t isolate zinc's effects individually, as it was evaluated alongside other components.
Importantly, there were also noteworthy improvements in patients’ fatigue levels and overall quality of life, as measured by the fatigue severity scale. We found that vitamin D levels rose significantly in participants during the supplement phase, suggesting that the OFS has potential benefits beyond just zinc.
In conclusion, while this study reveals the OFS improved inflammatory symptoms, fatigue, and quality of life, we must recognize that we did not specifically analyze zinc's isolated effects on chronic fatigue syndrome.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Immunity boost
This zinc supplement has significantly helped me enhance my immunity, particularly during my recovery from COVID. I experienced weakness, fatigue, and cold sweat, all of which gradually subsided. I recommend zinc for supporting the entire immune system.
Read More
7.5
Hair growth
My family has been using this vitamin for two months. After experiencing Post-COVID Syndrome, we faced severe hair loss, constant weakness, and drowsiness. However, following vitamin supplementation, we've noticed a general improvement. My hair has started to grow again, which had been disrupted after illness. We're planning to continue this vitamin treatment to maintain the healing benefits, and we highly recommend it.
Read More
7.5
Fatigue relief
Zinc is effective in strengthening immunity and combatting fatigue. Those with essential nutrient deficiencies will benefit from its consumption. The round tablets are easy to take.
We evaluated the effects of zinc treatment on individuals with long COVID, focusing on how it relates to chronic fatigue syndrome. Our study involved 58 patients who underwent a unique therapy called Epipharyngeal Abrasive Therapy (EAT), which utilized zinc chloride as an anti-inflammatory agent for the epipharynx.
Participants were treated once a week for a month, and we measured the intensity of their symptoms, specifically fatigue, headaches, and attention disorders, using a visual analog scale (VAS). Remarkably, we found that EAT reduced inflammation in the epipharynx and resulted in significant improvements in the reported intensity of these symptoms.
We believe these findings highlight the potential role of zinc in managing symptoms associated with long COVID and possibly chronic fatigue syndrome. While the evidence is encouraging, it remains essential to conduct more in-depth research to truly understand the specific effects of zinc and ensure these benefits are consistently reproducible.
Read More
8
Synbiotics improve post-COVID fatigue
The effects of 3-month supplementation with synbiotic on patient-reported outcomes, exercise tolerance, and brain and muscle metabolism in adult patients with post-COVID-19 chronic fatigue syndrome (STOP-FATIGUE): a randomized Placebo-controlled clinical trial.
We investigated the impact of a 3-month supplementation with a special synbiotic mixture on adults suffering from post-COVID-19 chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). This study was thoughtfully designed as a placebo-controlled, double-blind trial involving 26 participants. The intention was to see how this synbiotic, which notably contains zinc among other components, would influence patients' overall experiences, exercise tolerance, and metabolism in tissues affected by fatigue.
The promising findings indicated that taking the synbiotic mixture for three months improved metabolism and helped alleviate some clinical features associated with post-COVID fatigue syndrome. However, it's important to note that because zinc was part of this mixture, the study does not allow us to draw clear conclusions about zinc alone and its effects on chronic fatigue syndrome.
While our research shows that synbiotics may offer a safe and beneficial approach to managing symptoms of ME/CFS following COVID-19, further investigations are needed to fully understand the role of each component, including zinc, before making any strong recommendations for its use in this context.
Read More
8
Oral supplement improves long COVID
Potential Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Fatigue Effects of an Oral Food Supplement in Long COVID Patients.
We conducted a clinical trial to examine how an oral food supplement (OFS) could impact patients suffering from long COVID, particularly focusing on inflammation and fatigue. This was a robust study design, featuring a double-blind, placebo-controlled setup that included 2 capsules of the supplement daily over two months.
The supplement contained a mix of ingredients like rosehip, propolis, royal jelly, zinc, and vitamin C. While zinc was part of the mix, we observed significant results in inflammation reduction through various parameters, such as a decrease in the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and C-reactive protein levels. However, we couldn’t isolate zinc's effects individually, as it was evaluated alongside other components.
Importantly, there were also noteworthy improvements in patients’ fatigue levels and overall quality of life, as measured by the fatigue severity scale. We found that vitamin D levels rose significantly in participants during the supplement phase, suggesting that the OFS has potential benefits beyond just zinc.
In conclusion, while this study reveals the OFS improved inflammatory symptoms, fatigue, and quality of life, we must recognize that we did not specifically analyze zinc's isolated effects on chronic fatigue syndrome.
Read More
8
Beta-glucan improves cognitive fatigue
Yeast Beta-Glucan Supplementation with Multivitamins Attenuates Cognitive Impairments in Individuals with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.
We conducted a study to explore the potential benefits of beta-glucan supplementation in individuals suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Over 36 weeks, we engaged 65 patients in a randomized, double-blind trial where they received either a daily combination of beta-glucan, vitamin D3, vitamin B6, and zinc, or a placebo that contained only microcrystalline cellulose. This approach allowed us to assess the overall impact of this nutritional supplement on fatigue, sleep quality, anxiety, and cognitive performance.
Our findings were particularly encouraging regarding cognitive fatigue; those who received the beta-glucan supplementation showed a significant improvement in cognitive fatigue symptoms over the study period. While zinc was included in the supplement mix, it makes it challenging to pinpoint its isolated contribution to the benefits observed. Therefore, we caution that any conclusions about zinc’s effects on chronic fatigue syndrome should be drawn with care.
This research provides valuable insights into how yeast-derived beta-glucan might serve as a helpful supplement for patients facing cognitive challenges associated with ME/CFS. Moving forward, further investigations are needed to confirm these outcomes and to better understand the immunometabolic mechanisms at play.
Read More
8
Zinc's limited role in fatigue relief
Effect of Melatonin Plus Zinc Supplementation on Fatigue Perception in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.
We conducted a study to explore how oral supplementation of melatonin combined with zinc affects fatigue in patients with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). The trial lasted 16 weeks, involved 50 participants, and was designed as a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Patients were divided to receive either melatonin with zinc or a placebo daily.
Throughout the study, we focused on measuring fatigue levels, sleep disturbances, anxiety, and overall quality of life. Our findings highlighted a significant reduction in physical fatigue for those taking the melatonin and zinc combination compared to the placebo group at the end of the treatment period. While the treatment led to an increase in urinary melatonin levels, we did not observe any significant changes in zinc concentrations.
Overall, our results suggest that adding melatonin with zinc could potentially improve the quality of life for those suffering from ME/CFS, primarily by alleviating fatigue symptoms. However, the combination treatment makes it challenging to isolate the specific impact of zinc alone on chronic fatigue syndrome.
This zinc supplement has significantly helped me enhance my immunity, particularly during my recovery from COVID. I experienced weakness, fatigue, and cold sweat, all of which gradually subsided. I recommend zinc for supporting the entire immune system.
Read More
7.5
Hair growth
My family has been using this vitamin for two months. After experiencing Post-COVID Syndrome, we faced severe hair loss, constant weakness, and drowsiness. However, following vitamin supplementation, we've noticed a general improvement. My hair has started to grow again, which had been disrupted after illness. We're planning to continue this vitamin treatment to maintain the healing benefits, and we highly recommend it.
Read More
7.5
Fatigue relief
Zinc is effective in strengthening immunity and combatting fatigue. Those with essential nutrient deficiencies will benefit from its consumption. The round tablets are easy to take.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), is a complex and debilitating condition characterized by profound fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest and worsens with physical or mental activity. This crippling fatigue is often accompanied by a variety of symptoms, including sleep disturbances, cognitive difficulties, muscle pain, and joint pain. Unlike typical tiredness, the fatigue experienced in CFS is long-lasting, and it can significantly hinder everyday activities and overall quality of life.
The precise cause of CFS remains unknown, but it is believed to be influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, immunological, and psychological factors. Diagnosis primarily relies on a careful assessment of symptoms, as there are no definitive laboratory tests available. Treatment options focus on symptom management and may include lifestyle changes, physical therapy, medication for pain management, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Given the complexity and variability of the condition, individuals with CFS should consult healthcare professionals who specialize in this area to develop personalized management strategies.
Zinc is a versatile metal known for its various applications in industry and health. It is a bluish-white metallic element represented by the symbol Zn and atomic number 30 on the periodic table. Zinc is primarily used for galvanizing steel to prevent rusting, in the manufacturing of alloys, and as a component in batteries. Additionally, zinc plays a crucial role in biological processes, making it an essential trace element in the human diet. It is involved in immune function, protein synthesis, wound healing, and DNA synthesis, highlighting its importance in maintaining overall health and well-being.
The potential benefits of zinc in managing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) are not extensively supported by rigorous scientific evidence. Nonetheless, zinc is an essential mineral involved in numerous biological processes, including immune function and energy metabolism, which may indirectly influence symptoms associated with CFS. Some studies suggest that a deficiency in zinc could exacerbate fatigue or other symptoms, indicating that maintaining adequate levels might be beneficial for overall health and wellbeing.
However, it’s critical to approach zinc supplementation with caution. While some individuals may benefit from taking zinc, especially if they have a documented deficiency, excessive intake can lead to toxicity and adverse effects. Therefore, if you're considering zinc supplements as part of your strategy to manage CFS, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider. They can help determine appropriate dosage and whether it’s the right move for your health situation, ensuring a balanced approach to your overall care plan.
Based on user reviews, individuals taking this supplement for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome may start to notice improvements within a range of two weeks to two months of consistent use. One user expressed that after two months of taking the vitamin, they observed a noticeable general improvement in their condition, which included alleviation of fatigue and restoration of hair growth following an illness Read Review. Meanwhile, another reviewer confirmed the effectiveness of zinc in combating fatigue and supporting the immune system, indicating positive results consistent with essential nutrient deficiencies Read Review. Overall, while individual experiences may vary, it seems reasonable to expect some improvement in symptoms after several weeks of supplementation.
The use of zinc in treating Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) has been the subject of various research studies, which point to potential benefits but also emphasize the need for caution. Several studies have indicated that zinc supplementation may be linked to improved symptoms of CFS, particularly in relation to immune function and inflammation. For instance, a study found that patients suffering from CFS had significantly lower serum zinc levels compared to healthy volunteers, with a correlation between low zinc levels and greater symptom severity [7]. Another study observed that a combination of melatonin and zinc led to a reduction in fatigue symptoms, suggesting that zinc may play a role in managing fatigue in CFS patients [5].
However, the challenge lies in the fact that many studies incorporate zinc alongside other components, making it difficult to isolate its effects. For example, a study focusing on synbiotics found positive outcomes on fatigue but could not clearly attribute these effects to zinc alone [1]. Similar conclusions were drawn in trials evaluating supplement combinations for inflammatory and fatigue symptoms in long COVID patients, where zinc was present but not specifically analyzed [2]. Overall, while initial research is promising, it suggests a potential role for zinc in CFS management, further studies are essential for definitive recommendations.
Users have reported a range of improvements in their symptoms after taking the zinc supplement, particularly in relation to immunity and fatigue. One reviewer highlighted significant enhancements in their immune system during recovery from COVID-19, with their experiences of weakness, fatigue, and cold sweats gradually subsiding after starting the zinc regimen Read Review. Another family who suffered from Post-COVID Syndrome noted remarkable improvements over two months of vitamin supplementation, including a reduction in severe hair loss, constant weakness, and drowsiness, with noticeable hair regrowth Read Review.
Additionally, some users have attested to the effectiveness of zinc in combatting fatigue and supporting immune functions, especially for those with essential nutrient deficiencies Read Review. While individual results can vary, it seems clear that many have found benefits in their symptoms after consistent use of the supplement.
Users report that zinc supplements can be beneficial for conditions associated with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, particularly in enhancing immunity and alleviating symptoms like weakness and fatigue. One user highlighted how zinc contributed to their recovery from COVID, noting that their feelings of fatigue and cold sweats gradually subsided after taking the supplement Read Review. Another review echoed the sentiment, describing improvement in symptoms such as severe hair loss and drowsiness after two months of vitamin supplementation Read Review.
While users appreciated the immune-boosting properties of zinc, specific dosage information was not mentioned in the reviews. Overall, it appears that users found zinc to be a valuable addition to their health regimen, particularly for recovering from fatigue linked to post-viral syndromes. They suggested continued use to maintain the benefits, though the exact “right dose” for addressing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome wasn't specified in their feedback Read Review.
7.5
Hair growth
My family has been using this vitamin for two months. After experiencing Post-COVID Syndrome, we faced severe hair loss, constant weakness, and drowsiness. However, following vitamin supplementation, we've noticed a general improvement. My hair has started to grow again, which had been disrupted after illness. We're planning to continue this vitamin treatment to maintain the healing benefits, and we highly recommend it.
7.5
Fatigue relief
Zinc is effective in strengthening immunity and combatting fatigue. Those with essential nutrient deficiencies will benefit from its consumption. The round tablets are easy to take.
9
Immunity boost
This zinc supplement has significantly helped me enhance my immunity, particularly during my recovery from COVID. I experienced weakness, fatigue, and cold sweat, all of which gradually subsided. I recommend zinc for supporting the entire immune system.
7
Zinc supplementation may benefit CFS
Lower serum zinc in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS): relationships to immune dysfunctions and relevance for the oxidative stress status in CFS.
We explored the relationship between serum zinc levels and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) in a study that compared patients with CFS to normal volunteers. By using an atomic absorption method, we measured serum zinc concentrations and found that those suffering from CFS had significantly lower levels of zinc compared to healthy individuals.
Interestingly, we observed a trend indicating that lower zinc levels correlated with greater CFS severity. Patients also reported a negative correlation between their zinc levels and their subjective experiences of infection. This suggests that zinc plays a role in the immune dysfunction commonly seen in CFS.
Furthermore, we noted that lower serum zinc was associated with higher levels of inflammatory markers and certain defects in the early activation of T cells. Since zinc acts as a potent antioxidant, our findings indicate that CFS is linked to increased oxidative stress in these patients. Given this, it may be beneficial for some CFS patients to consider zinc supplements as part of their treatment approach.
8
Zinc's limited role in fatigue relief
Effect of Melatonin Plus Zinc Supplementation on Fatigue Perception in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.
We conducted a study to explore how oral supplementation of melatonin combined with zinc affects fatigue in patients with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). The trial lasted 16 weeks, involved 50 participants, and was designed as a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Patients were divided to receive either melatonin with zinc or a placebo daily.
Throughout the study, we focused on measuring fatigue levels, sleep disturbances, anxiety, and overall quality of life. Our findings highlighted a significant reduction in physical fatigue for those taking the melatonin and zinc combination compared to the placebo group at the end of the treatment period. While the treatment led to an increase in urinary melatonin levels, we did not observe any significant changes in zinc concentrations.
Overall, our results suggest that adding melatonin with zinc could potentially improve the quality of life for those suffering from ME/CFS, primarily by alleviating fatigue symptoms. However, the combination treatment makes it challenging to isolate the specific impact of zinc alone on chronic fatigue syndrome.
8
Synbiotics improve post-COVID fatigue
The effects of 3-month supplementation with synbiotic on patient-reported outcomes, exercise tolerance, and brain and muscle metabolism in adult patients with post-COVID-19 chronic fatigue syndrome (STOP-FATIGUE): a randomized Placebo-controlled clinical trial.
We investigated the impact of a 3-month supplementation with a special synbiotic mixture on adults suffering from post-COVID-19 chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). This study was thoughtfully designed as a placebo-controlled, double-blind trial involving 26 participants. The intention was to see how this synbiotic, which notably contains zinc among other components, would influence patients' overall experiences, exercise tolerance, and metabolism in tissues affected by fatigue.
The promising findings indicated that taking the synbiotic mixture for three months improved metabolism and helped alleviate some clinical features associated with post-COVID fatigue syndrome. However, it's important to note that because zinc was part of this mixture, the study does not allow us to draw clear conclusions about zinc alone and its effects on chronic fatigue syndrome.
While our research shows that synbiotics may offer a safe and beneficial approach to managing symptoms of ME/CFS following COVID-19, further investigations are needed to fully understand the role of each component, including zinc, before making any strong recommendations for its use in this context.
8
Oral supplement improves long COVID
Potential Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Fatigue Effects of an Oral Food Supplement in Long COVID Patients.
We conducted a clinical trial to examine how an oral food supplement (OFS) could impact patients suffering from long COVID, particularly focusing on inflammation and fatigue. This was a robust study design, featuring a double-blind, placebo-controlled setup that included 2 capsules of the supplement daily over two months.
The supplement contained a mix of ingredients like rosehip, propolis, royal jelly, zinc, and vitamin C. While zinc was part of the mix, we observed significant results in inflammation reduction through various parameters, such as a decrease in the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and C-reactive protein levels. However, we couldn’t isolate zinc's effects individually, as it was evaluated alongside other components.
Importantly, there were also noteworthy improvements in patients’ fatigue levels and overall quality of life, as measured by the fatigue severity scale. We found that vitamin D levels rose significantly in participants during the supplement phase, suggesting that the OFS has potential benefits beyond just zinc.
In conclusion, while this study reveals the OFS improved inflammatory symptoms, fatigue, and quality of life, we must recognize that we did not specifically analyze zinc's isolated effects on chronic fatigue syndrome.
References
Ranisavljev M, Stajer V, Todorovic N, Ostojic J, Cvejic JH, et al. The effects of 3-month supplementation with synbiotic on patient-reported outcomes, exercise tolerance, and brain and muscle metabolism in adult patients with post-COVID-19 chronic fatigue syndrome (STOP-FATIGUE): a randomized Placebo-controlled clinical trial. Eur J Nutr. 2024;64:28. doi:10.1007/s00394-024-03546-0
Noce A, Marrone G, Di Lauro M, Vita C, Montalto G, et al. Potential Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Fatigue Effects of an Oral Food Supplement in Long COVID Patients. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2024;17. doi:10.3390/ph17040463
Lacasa M, Alegre-Martin J, Sentañes RS, Varela-Sende L, Jurek J, et al. Yeast Beta-Glucan Supplementation with Multivitamins Attenuates Cognitive Impairments in Individuals with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2023;15. doi:10.3390/nu15214504
Imai K, Yamano T, Nishi S, Nishi R, Nishi T, et al. Epipharyngeal Abrasive Therapy (EAT) Has Potential as a Novel Method for Long COVID Treatment. Viruses. 2022;14. doi:10.3390/v14050907
Castro-Marrero J, Zaragozá MC, López-Vílchez I, Galmés JL, Cordobilla B, et al. Effect of Melatonin Plus Zinc Supplementation on Fatigue Perception in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Antioxidants (Basel). 2021;10. doi:10.3390/antiox10071010
Maes M, Leunis JC. Normalization of leaky gut in chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is accompanied by a clinical improvement: effects of age, duration of illness and the translocation of LPS from gram-negative bacteria. Neuro Endocrinol Lett. 2008;29:902.
Maes M, Mihaylova I, De Ruyter M. Lower serum zinc in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS): relationships to immune dysfunctions and relevance for the oxidative stress status in CFS. J Affect Disord. 2006;90:141.