Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 7 Researches
7.9
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 6 Reviews
8
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Veg Capsule
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Zinc(from 270 mg Zinc Picolinate)
50 mg
455%
Top Medical Research Studies
7
We aimed to uncover the connection between dietary zinc deficiency and symptoms associated with major depressive disorder (MDD). In our study, we used rats fed either a zinc-adequate diet or one deficient in zinc for four weeks.
We then analyzed the changes in protein expression in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus—two brain areas closely linked to depression. This approach allowed us to see how zinc deficiency impacts the brain at a molecular level.
Our findings revealed that significant alterations occurred in proteins related to zinc transport and mitochondrial function due to the deficiency. In particular, we saw a notable decline in the activity of complex I of the mitochondrial energy production pathway in the prefrontal cortex.
These results suggest that low zinc levels can disrupt vital brain functions, potentially contributing to the development of depressive symptoms. This highlights the importance of maintaining adequate zinc levels for mental health.
We then analyzed the changes in protein expression in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus—two brain areas closely linked to depression. This approach allowed us to see how zinc deficiency impacts the brain at a molecular level.
Our findings revealed that significant alterations occurred in proteins related to zinc transport and mitochondrial function due to the deficiency. In particular, we saw a notable decline in the activity of complex I of the mitochondrial energy production pathway in the prefrontal cortex.
These results suggest that low zinc levels can disrupt vital brain functions, potentially contributing to the development of depressive symptoms. This highlights the importance of maintaining adequate zinc levels for mental health.
Read More
9
We investigated the potential benefits of a novel zinc complex, specifically Zn(ALC)Cl(HO), for its effectiveness in treating depression. This innovative compound combines zinc with acetyl-l-carnitine, which is known for its role in energy metabolism and protecting brain cells.
Our findings revealed that this zinc complex displays a remarkable 54% improvement in antidepressant activity compared to standard acetyl-l-carnitine. We also observed its ability to reduce pain in tests involving chronic conditions, showing promise in enhancing overall mental and physical health.
Additionally, this compound demonstrated capability to cross the blood-brain barrier, protecting against cell damage from excessive glutamate. We think these results indicate that Zn(ALC)Cl(HO) could be a significant step forward in managing not just depression but also neurodegenerative challenges.
Our findings revealed that this zinc complex displays a remarkable 54% improvement in antidepressant activity compared to standard acetyl-l-carnitine. We also observed its ability to reduce pain in tests involving chronic conditions, showing promise in enhancing overall mental and physical health.
Additionally, this compound demonstrated capability to cross the blood-brain barrier, protecting against cell damage from excessive glutamate. We think these results indicate that Zn(ALC)Cl(HO) could be a significant step forward in managing not just depression but also neurodegenerative challenges.
Read More
8
Zinc may improve depressive symptoms
We explored the potential impact of zinc on depression, focusing on how this important mineral might help improve mood. Various studies suggest that zinc could play a role in combating depressive symptoms, offering a promising avenue for those who find themselves struggling with mental health issues.
While the research is still developing, there’s an encouraging indication that zinc may enhance the effectiveness of other treatments for depression. However, details about specific studies or methodologies are limited in our findings, which makes it tricky to fully gauge just how beneficial zinc is on its own.
We remain open to the need for more extensive research to truly understand zinc's place in depression treatment. The results so far are positive, yet more comprehensive studies could shed light on the best ways to incorporate zinc into therapeutic strategies for mental health.
While the research is still developing, there’s an encouraging indication that zinc may enhance the effectiveness of other treatments for depression. However, details about specific studies or methodologies are limited in our findings, which makes it tricky to fully gauge just how beneficial zinc is on its own.
We remain open to the need for more extensive research to truly understand zinc's place in depression treatment. The results so far are positive, yet more comprehensive studies could shed light on the best ways to incorporate zinc into therapeutic strategies for mental health.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Improves mood
2 people found this helpful
I've been taking zinc picolinate for several months as a preventive measure against depression. It has helped me manage my anxiety and irritability due to stress, leaving me feeling calmer, more confident, and productive.
Read More
7.5
Alleviates anxiety
6 people found this helpful
I purchased this zinc supplement for my wife, who had been on a different, pricier brand. She noticed improvements in her skin and felt significantly less depression and anxiety after switching to Now Foods Picolinate Zinc. The capsules were easy for her to swallow, leading to better appetite control and overall well-being. I will certainly buy this again!
Read More
7
Helps depression
5 people found this helpful
These supplements are perfect for my pyrole condition. Zinc and B6 have improved my mood significantly, providing good value for money.
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 7 Researches
7.9
- All Researches
9
We investigated the potential benefits of a novel zinc complex, specifically Zn(ALC)Cl(HO), for its effectiveness in treating depression. This innovative compound combines zinc with acetyl-l-carnitine, which is known for its role in energy metabolism and protecting brain cells.
Our findings revealed that this zinc complex displays a remarkable 54% improvement in antidepressant activity compared to standard acetyl-l-carnitine. We also observed its ability to reduce pain in tests involving chronic conditions, showing promise in enhancing overall mental and physical health.
Additionally, this compound demonstrated capability to cross the blood-brain barrier, protecting against cell damage from excessive glutamate. We think these results indicate that Zn(ALC)Cl(HO) could be a significant step forward in managing not just depression but also neurodegenerative challenges.
Our findings revealed that this zinc complex displays a remarkable 54% improvement in antidepressant activity compared to standard acetyl-l-carnitine. We also observed its ability to reduce pain in tests involving chronic conditions, showing promise in enhancing overall mental and physical health.
Additionally, this compound demonstrated capability to cross the blood-brain barrier, protecting against cell damage from excessive glutamate. We think these results indicate that Zn(ALC)Cl(HO) could be a significant step forward in managing not just depression but also neurodegenerative challenges.
Read More
8
We examined a case involving a 30-year-old woman diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder (DID) and bipolar I disorder. This patient was found to have zinc deficiency, which may have contributed to her mental health challenges, including emotional instability and dissociation.
While she initially did not respond to medications like aripiprazole and clonazepam, her symptoms started to improve with zinc supplementation at a dosage of 50 mg daily over five months. The real breakthrough came when we combined this with L-carnosine, a dipeptide known for its neuroprotective effects. Gradually increasing the L-carnosine dose from 0.5 g daily to 2 g daily led to marked improvements in her mental health conditions, including reduced dissociation and mood instability.
After five months of this combined treatment, her distinct alter identities diminished significantly, and within two years, they had disappeared completely. Notably, when the treatment was discontinued during a three-year follow-up, the identities resurfaced. The improvements were accompanied by a resolution of her zinc deficiency symptoms and reductions in her depression and dissociation severity scores.
Overall, this case suggests that zinc and L-carnosine may play a role in alleviating some depressive symptoms associated with dissociative identity disorder, but further investigation is warranted to understand the extent of zinc's contribution to these effects.
While she initially did not respond to medications like aripiprazole and clonazepam, her symptoms started to improve with zinc supplementation at a dosage of 50 mg daily over five months. The real breakthrough came when we combined this with L-carnosine, a dipeptide known for its neuroprotective effects. Gradually increasing the L-carnosine dose from 0.5 g daily to 2 g daily led to marked improvements in her mental health conditions, including reduced dissociation and mood instability.
After five months of this combined treatment, her distinct alter identities diminished significantly, and within two years, they had disappeared completely. Notably, when the treatment was discontinued during a three-year follow-up, the identities resurfaced. The improvements were accompanied by a resolution of her zinc deficiency symptoms and reductions in her depression and dissociation severity scores.
Overall, this case suggests that zinc and L-carnosine may play a role in alleviating some depressive symptoms associated with dissociative identity disorder, but further investigation is warranted to understand the extent of zinc's contribution to these effects.
Read More
8
Zinc may improve depressive symptoms
We explored the potential impact of zinc on depression, focusing on how this important mineral might help improve mood. Various studies suggest that zinc could play a role in combating depressive symptoms, offering a promising avenue for those who find themselves struggling with mental health issues.
While the research is still developing, there’s an encouraging indication that zinc may enhance the effectiveness of other treatments for depression. However, details about specific studies or methodologies are limited in our findings, which makes it tricky to fully gauge just how beneficial zinc is on its own.
We remain open to the need for more extensive research to truly understand zinc's place in depression treatment. The results so far are positive, yet more comprehensive studies could shed light on the best ways to incorporate zinc into therapeutic strategies for mental health.
While the research is still developing, there’s an encouraging indication that zinc may enhance the effectiveness of other treatments for depression. However, details about specific studies or methodologies are limited in our findings, which makes it tricky to fully gauge just how beneficial zinc is on its own.
We remain open to the need for more extensive research to truly understand zinc's place in depression treatment. The results so far are positive, yet more comprehensive studies could shed light on the best ways to incorporate zinc into therapeutic strategies for mental health.
Read More
8
We explored the intriguing relationship between zinc, obesity, and depression in a recent study. By examining mice with a specific deficiency in the WFS1 gene, we uncovered how this gene plays a significant role in both conditions. We fed these mice a high-fat diet and observed that their lack of WFS1 exacerbated symptoms of both obesity and depression.
In our investigation using human stem cells, we found that WFS1 is essential for regulating zinc levels within neural progenitor cells. This regulation influences cell health, especially in scenarios where lipid metabolism is disrupted. A key player in this process is the zinc transporter ZnT3, which WFS1 inhibits. Essentially, when WFS1 isn't functioning properly, it leads to imbalances in zinc that can promote cell death, a concern we found tied to obesity-related lipid issues.
Additionally, we tested riluzole, a therapeutic agent known for its nervous system benefits. This treatment showed promise in regulating ZnT3 and maintaining zinc balance, helping to protect neural progenitor cells from detrimental effects caused by excess fat. Riluzole administration in mice not only helped mitigate obesity but also eased related depressive symptoms.
However, while zinc is a significant factor within the framework of brain health, our findings suggest that the dynamics of how it interacts with obesity and depression are complex. Thus, while we noted zinc's importance through its linked pathways, we didn't isolate its effects separately, leaving some questions unanswered about zinc treatment's effectiveness on depression alone.
In our investigation using human stem cells, we found that WFS1 is essential for regulating zinc levels within neural progenitor cells. This regulation influences cell health, especially in scenarios where lipid metabolism is disrupted. A key player in this process is the zinc transporter ZnT3, which WFS1 inhibits. Essentially, when WFS1 isn't functioning properly, it leads to imbalances in zinc that can promote cell death, a concern we found tied to obesity-related lipid issues.
Additionally, we tested riluzole, a therapeutic agent known for its nervous system benefits. This treatment showed promise in regulating ZnT3 and maintaining zinc balance, helping to protect neural progenitor cells from detrimental effects caused by excess fat. Riluzole administration in mice not only helped mitigate obesity but also eased related depressive symptoms.
However, while zinc is a significant factor within the framework of brain health, our findings suggest that the dynamics of how it interacts with obesity and depression are complex. Thus, while we noted zinc's importance through its linked pathways, we didn't isolate its effects separately, leaving some questions unanswered about zinc treatment's effectiveness on depression alone.
Read More
8
Zinc's potential in depression treatment
We investigated how intranasal administration of a chelate complex of zinc arginyl-glycinate combined with alpha-glutamyl-tryptophan affects behaviors typically linked to depression. The study involved a variety of rodent models, namely Wistar and DAT-KO rats, as well as C57Bl6 and TAAR1-KO mice, allowing us to explore different genetic backgrounds in relation to depressive behaviors.
Our findings revealed that this specific method of zinc treatment along with the dipeptide showed potential in reducing anxiety and depressive-like behavior, especially after acute administration in C57Bl6 mice. Interestingly, chronic intranasal use also influenced anxiety levels in tested rodents but more consistent improvements in depressive behaviors were noted with acute treatments.
We suggest that intranasal delivery of this zinc and dipeptide combination could be a promising avenue to explore further as a possible new approach for addressing anxiety and depression. It also highlights the need for pre-clinical studies to confirm these benefits before any clinical applications can be considered.
Our findings revealed that this specific method of zinc treatment along with the dipeptide showed potential in reducing anxiety and depressive-like behavior, especially after acute administration in C57Bl6 mice. Interestingly, chronic intranasal use also influenced anxiety levels in tested rodents but more consistent improvements in depressive behaviors were noted with acute treatments.
We suggest that intranasal delivery of this zinc and dipeptide combination could be a promising avenue to explore further as a possible new approach for addressing anxiety and depression. It also highlights the need for pre-clinical studies to confirm these benefits before any clinical applications can be considered.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 6 Reviews
8
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
9
Improves mood
2 people found this helpful
I've been taking zinc picolinate for several months as a preventive measure against depression. It has helped me manage my anxiety and irritability due to stress, leaving me feeling calmer, more confident, and productive.
Read More
7.5
Alleviates anxiety
6 people found this helpful
I purchased this zinc supplement for my wife, who had been on a different, pricier brand. She noticed improvements in her skin and felt significantly less depression and anxiety after switching to Now Foods Picolinate Zinc. The capsules were easy for her to swallow, leading to better appetite control and overall well-being. I will certainly buy this again!
Read More
7
Helps depression
5 people found this helpful
These supplements are perfect for my pyrole condition. Zinc and B6 have improved my mood significantly, providing good value for money.
Read More
6
Supports mood
4 people found this helpful
A blood test revealed I was deficient in zinc, which can affect mood and possibly lead to depression. This supplement is easy to take, and I ensure to space it out from my iron intake as they interfere with each other’s absorption.
Read More
8
Boosts mood
2 people found this helpful
Zinc is critical for health, especially for conditions related to low levels. It plays a significant role in mental wellbeing and has been shown to improve mood and prevent depression. Insufficient zinc can lead to poor performance and increased mood issues, particularly in children and the elderly. Overall, it's essential for immune function and combating inflammation.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
7.5
Alleviates anxiety
6 people found this helpful
I purchased this zinc supplement for my wife, who had been on a different, pricier brand. She noticed improvements in her skin and felt significantly less depression and anxiety after switching to Now Foods Picolinate Zinc. The capsules were easy for her to swallow, leading to better appetite control and overall well-being. I will certainly buy this again!
9
Improves mood
2 people found this helpful
I've been taking zinc picolinate for several months as a preventive measure against depression. It has helped me manage my anxiety and irritability due to stress, leaving me feeling calmer, more confident, and productive.
7
Helps depression
5 people found this helpful
These supplements are perfect for my pyrole condition. Zinc and B6 have improved my mood significantly, providing good value for money.
6
Supports mood
4 people found this helpful
A blood test revealed I was deficient in zinc, which can affect mood and possibly lead to depression. This supplement is easy to take, and I ensure to space it out from my iron intake as they interfere with each other’s absorption.
6
Strengthens immunity
6 people found this helpful
I regularly consume zinc picolinate, especially during cold season, as it's vital for immunity and overall health. A deficiency can quickly develop, leading to symptoms like fatigue, skin issues, and even depression. Zinc is crucial for mental health and is absorbed better than other forms. Supplementing can help prevent these issues, especially for older individuals, due to its significant role in maintaining mood and brain function.
9
We investigated the potential benefits of a novel zinc complex, specifically Zn(ALC)Cl(HO), for its effectiveness in treating depression. This innovative compound combines zinc with acetyl-l-carnitine, which is known for its role in energy metabolism and protecting brain cells.
Our findings revealed that this zinc complex displays a remarkable 54% improvement in antidepressant activity compared to standard acetyl-l-carnitine. We also observed its ability to reduce pain in tests involving chronic conditions, showing promise in enhancing overall mental and physical health.
Additionally, this compound demonstrated capability to cross the blood-brain barrier, protecting against cell damage from excessive glutamate. We think these results indicate that Zn(ALC)Cl(HO) could be a significant step forward in managing not just depression but also neurodegenerative challenges.
Our findings revealed that this zinc complex displays a remarkable 54% improvement in antidepressant activity compared to standard acetyl-l-carnitine. We also observed its ability to reduce pain in tests involving chronic conditions, showing promise in enhancing overall mental and physical health.
Additionally, this compound demonstrated capability to cross the blood-brain barrier, protecting against cell damage from excessive glutamate. We think these results indicate that Zn(ALC)Cl(HO) could be a significant step forward in managing not just depression but also neurodegenerative challenges.
7
We aimed to uncover the connection between dietary zinc deficiency and symptoms associated with major depressive disorder (MDD). In our study, we used rats fed either a zinc-adequate diet or one deficient in zinc for four weeks.
We then analyzed the changes in protein expression in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus—two brain areas closely linked to depression. This approach allowed us to see how zinc deficiency impacts the brain at a molecular level.
Our findings revealed that significant alterations occurred in proteins related to zinc transport and mitochondrial function due to the deficiency. In particular, we saw a notable decline in the activity of complex I of the mitochondrial energy production pathway in the prefrontal cortex.
These results suggest that low zinc levels can disrupt vital brain functions, potentially contributing to the development of depressive symptoms. This highlights the importance of maintaining adequate zinc levels for mental health.
We then analyzed the changes in protein expression in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus—two brain areas closely linked to depression. This approach allowed us to see how zinc deficiency impacts the brain at a molecular level.
Our findings revealed that significant alterations occurred in proteins related to zinc transport and mitochondrial function due to the deficiency. In particular, we saw a notable decline in the activity of complex I of the mitochondrial energy production pathway in the prefrontal cortex.
These results suggest that low zinc levels can disrupt vital brain functions, potentially contributing to the development of depressive symptoms. This highlights the importance of maintaining adequate zinc levels for mental health.
7
We explored the connection between zinc and stress-related depression through the lens of a specific receptor called GPR39. By utilizing a model of chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) in mice, we investigated how changes in zinc levels could affect depression and responses to standard antidepressant treatments.
Our study revealed that mice lacking GPR39 were more vulnerable to chronic stress and did not respond to common antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). When we administered a GPR39 agonist, TC-G 1008, alongside antidepressants, we found that it enhanced the antidepressant-like effects. However, it's important to note that without GPR39, the effectiveness of these treatments was lessened, suggesting a crucial role of this receptor in depression mechanisms.
The findings suggest that GPR39 might be a valuable target for developing new depression therapies that incorporate zinc, although it also highlights the challenges of isolating the specific effects of zinc when paired with other treatments. Further research is needed to explore the potential of GPR39 and help clarify the relationship between zinc and depression treatment.
Our study revealed that mice lacking GPR39 were more vulnerable to chronic stress and did not respond to common antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). When we administered a GPR39 agonist, TC-G 1008, alongside antidepressants, we found that it enhanced the antidepressant-like effects. However, it's important to note that without GPR39, the effectiveness of these treatments was lessened, suggesting a crucial role of this receptor in depression mechanisms.
The findings suggest that GPR39 might be a valuable target for developing new depression therapies that incorporate zinc, although it also highlights the challenges of isolating the specific effects of zinc when paired with other treatments. Further research is needed to explore the potential of GPR39 and help clarify the relationship between zinc and depression treatment.
8
We explored the intriguing relationship between zinc, obesity, and depression in a recent study. By examining mice with a specific deficiency in the WFS1 gene, we uncovered how this gene plays a significant role in both conditions. We fed these mice a high-fat diet and observed that their lack of WFS1 exacerbated symptoms of both obesity and depression.
In our investigation using human stem cells, we found that WFS1 is essential for regulating zinc levels within neural progenitor cells. This regulation influences cell health, especially in scenarios where lipid metabolism is disrupted. A key player in this process is the zinc transporter ZnT3, which WFS1 inhibits. Essentially, when WFS1 isn't functioning properly, it leads to imbalances in zinc that can promote cell death, a concern we found tied to obesity-related lipid issues.
Additionally, we tested riluzole, a therapeutic agent known for its nervous system benefits. This treatment showed promise in regulating ZnT3 and maintaining zinc balance, helping to protect neural progenitor cells from detrimental effects caused by excess fat. Riluzole administration in mice not only helped mitigate obesity but also eased related depressive symptoms.
However, while zinc is a significant factor within the framework of brain health, our findings suggest that the dynamics of how it interacts with obesity and depression are complex. Thus, while we noted zinc's importance through its linked pathways, we didn't isolate its effects separately, leaving some questions unanswered about zinc treatment's effectiveness on depression alone.
In our investigation using human stem cells, we found that WFS1 is essential for regulating zinc levels within neural progenitor cells. This regulation influences cell health, especially in scenarios where lipid metabolism is disrupted. A key player in this process is the zinc transporter ZnT3, which WFS1 inhibits. Essentially, when WFS1 isn't functioning properly, it leads to imbalances in zinc that can promote cell death, a concern we found tied to obesity-related lipid issues.
Additionally, we tested riluzole, a therapeutic agent known for its nervous system benefits. This treatment showed promise in regulating ZnT3 and maintaining zinc balance, helping to protect neural progenitor cells from detrimental effects caused by excess fat. Riluzole administration in mice not only helped mitigate obesity but also eased related depressive symptoms.
However, while zinc is a significant factor within the framework of brain health, our findings suggest that the dynamics of how it interacts with obesity and depression are complex. Thus, while we noted zinc's importance through its linked pathways, we didn't isolate its effects separately, leaving some questions unanswered about zinc treatment's effectiveness on depression alone.
References
- Caro-Ramírez JY, Bazán LO, Piro OE, Echeverría GA, Jori K, et al. Exploring Zn(II)-Acetyl l-carnitine complex for simultaneous management of depression, chronic pain, and neuroprotection. J Inorg Biochem. 2025;267:112857. doi:10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2025.112857
- Siodłak D, Doboszewska U, Nowak G, Wlaź P, Mlyniec K. Investigating the role of GPR39 in treatment of stress-induced depression and anxiety. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2025. doi:10.1007/s00213-024-06736-0
- Sakae K, Suka M, Yanagisawa H. Dissociative Identity Disorder Cotreated With Zinc and L-carnosine: A Case Report. Cureus. 2024;16:e74794. doi:10.7759/cureus.74794
- Gąsior Ł, Pochwat B, Zaręba-Kozioł M, Włodarczyk J, Grabrucker AM, et al. Proteomics analysis in rats reveals convergent mechanisms between major depressive disorder and dietary zinc deficiency. Pharmacol Rep. 2025;77:145. doi:10.1007/s43440-024-00681-7
- Chrobak AA, Siwek M. Drugs with glutamate-based mechanisms of action in psychiatry. Pharmacol Rep. 2024;76:1256. doi:10.1007/s43440-024-00656-8
- Gong M, Fang Y, Yang K, Yuan F, Hu R, et al. The WFS1-ZnT3-Zn Axis Regulates the Vicious Cycle of Obesity and Depression. Adv Sci (Weinh). 2024;11:e2403405. doi:10.1002/advs.202403405
- Apryatin S, Lopachev A, Zhukov I, Efimova E, Apryatina V. BEHAVIORAL AND NEUROCHEMICAL CHANGES DURING INTRANASAL ADMINISTRATION OF ALPHA-GLUTAMYL-TRYPTOPHAN AND CHELATE COMPLEX OF ZINC ARGINYL-GLYCINATE ON MONOAMINE SYSTEMS DYSFUNCTIONS KNOCK-OUT MODELS. Georgian Med News. 2024.
