WHAT IS ZINC ASCORBATE?

Zinc ascorbate is a chelated compound of a zinc ion bonded to vitamin C, ultimately forming a zinc salt of ascorbic acid. Zinc is an essential mineral and cofactor for over 300 enzymes. It acts as an antioxidant, helps regulate gene expression, and is essential for a healthy immune system. Zinc plays numerous biological roles throughout the body, but it concentrates most heavily in the bones, muscles, brain, liver, kidney, and parts of the eye.

ZINC ASCORBATE VS. ZINC AND VITAMIN C

It’s not possible to achieve the same effects of zinc ascorbate by taking zinc and vitamin C together. Zinc is not soluble in fat and can’t cross fat-based cell membranes without a carrier. Ascorbate is an ionophore than binds to chelated zinc ions to facilitate this process and improve zinc absorption. Vitamin C can’t act as a carrier for unchelated zinc or exert ionophore activities. As a result, zinc ascorbate is a substantially more potent antioxidant.

POTENTIAL ZINC BENEFITS

Zinc is essential for life, but deficiencies are incredibly common. More than 2 billion people around the world have a zinc deficiency, and a quarter of the earth’s population is at risk of developing one. Compounding the problem, nearly a third of all individuals don’t consume enough zinc from dietary sources. Oysters are rich in zinc, as are poultry and red meats. Vegans and vegetarians can obtain zinc by eating whole grains, nuts, and beans. Taking zinc supplements helps fill the nutritional gaps in individuals’ diets and may provide several benefits.

ZINC FOR IMMUNE SYSTEM HEALTH

Zinc ascorbate is a potent antioxidant that acts similarly to superoxide dismutase (SOD). SOD enzymes help break down superoxide free radicals into simple oxygen and hydrogen peroxide. Free radicals can damage cells and even cause cell death when they outnumber antioxidants. Free radicals also cause cells to age prematurely and can worsen or lead to many disease states. By acting as an antioxidant, zinc ascorbate can reduce inflammation and support health at the cellular level. Most of the research regarding zinc and the immune system relates to its effects on respiratory health. Numerous studies show that zinc supplements reduce the duration of the common cold by up to 33% and diminish the severity of its symptoms.

POTENTIAL ZINC BENEFITS FOR SKIN

Zinc ascorbate has antimicrobial properties that may improve acne symptoms. Acne development is a complex process influenced by several environmental factors. However, there is a strong correlation between acne and certain bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Zinc ascorbate exerted antimicrobic effects against both bacteria. It also outperformed other combinations of zinc and vitamin C derivatives. One study noted that zinc ascorbate synergizes with other dermatological approaches for acne. Zinc may further improve acne symptoms by reducing acne inflammation.

Adequate zinc is essential for maintaining the skin’s barrier. However, individuals suffering from acne often have reduced zinc concentrations. Lower zinc levels can also spur androgenic production leading to more sebum production and oil accumulation on the skin. Androgens are also often the culprit behind hormonal breakouts. Taking zinc supplements may help inhibit these processes for clearer skin.