Taking supplements can be really beneficial for our health, but how do you know which one to take? In this article, we’re exploring the benefits of taking zinc supplements; what it can do for your body, how much and how often you should take it, its possible side effects, and of course, the best zinc supplements in Malaysia.

What is zinc, and who should take zinc supplements?

Zinc is a micronutrient that your body needs to support various functions of the body. The body does not produce zinc, so we normally get it from the foods we eat, and it’s typically found in beans, nuts, red meat, poultry, and seafood. Zinc is mainly stored in the muscle and bone, and although most people can meet their zinc needs through diet alone, some people may not reach the optimal amount of zinc in their diets. Among the people who may need to take zinc supplements are vegans and vegetarians, pregnant or lactating women, those with gastrointestinal disorders, people who take certain medications like diuretics, and those who excessively drink alcohol.

What are the benefits of taking zinc supplements?

Zinc is involved in many of the body’s functions. Zinc supplements may help with:

  • Immune health
  • Wound healing, blood clotting, and inflammation
  • Thyroid function
  • Vision
  • Hormone balance
  • Acne, eczema, and psoriasis

What are the side effects of taking zinc supplements?

Although taking zinc supplements are generally considered to be safe, they do run some risk. Some side effects of zinc may include:

  • Nausea,
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Stomach cramps

If excessively consumed, then less common side effects may occur such as:

  • Dizziness
  • Fever
  • Dry mouth
  • Changes in skin colour
  • Joint pain

Best Zinc Supplements In Malaysia

1. Thorne Zinc Picolinate

Consistently rated as one of the best zinc supplements in Malaysia, Thorne Zinc Picolinate can be a reliable choice for you to up your health game. It’s really easy to consume; all you need is one capsule once or twice a day, preferably taken with a meal, and that’s it! What we love most about this supplement is that it contains both Zinc Picolinate and Zinc Bisglycinate, which are two highly absorbable forms of zinc, making it very effective. It’s also been NSF Certified for Sport, which means that it’s been tested and cleared for contaminants and the presence of up to 200 substances banned by major athletic agencies.

Why we love it:

  • Easy to swallow
  • Highly absorbable by the body
  • NSF Certified for Sport

Cons:

  • Pricey

Price: RM 179

Where to buy: PerfumeStore

2. Blackmores Bio Zinc Plus

We love the Blackmores Bio Zinc Plus because not only does it contains zinc, it also has key nutrients that your body needs, like magnesium, manganese, in addition to vitamin A and vitamin B6 – pretty much all you need to support your overall well-being. The zinc in this supplement is chelated, which means that it’s made to be easily absorbed by the body. This supplement also has no added dairy, gluten, wheat, milk derivatives, preservatives, artificial flavours, sweeteners, or yeast, and all you need is one tablet a day.

Why we love it:

  • Chelated zinc
  • Also contains magnesium, manganese, and vitamins A and B6
  • Supports overall health

Cons:

  •  Not suitable for vegans or vegetarians

Price: RM 61

Where to buy: Alpro Pharmacy

3. NOW Zinc Glycinate Softgels

The NOW Zinc Glycinate Softgels are a great option, particularly if you’re looking to boost testosterone levels and improve prostate health. This supplement is in softgel form, which means that they’re very easy to swallow. Plus, they’re made with chelated Zinc Glycinate to increase absorption and bioavailability. These zinc supplements are also economical, as you’ll get 120 softgels for less than RM70.

Why we love it:

  • Easy to swallow softgels
  • Halal
  • Contains 250 mg Pumpkin Seed Oil

Cons:

  • Not suitable for vegans or vegetarians

Price: RM 69.95

Where to buy: Lazada

4. Flavettes Effervescent Vit C + Zinc

Step into a pharmacy or drugstore, and you’ll definitely see Flavettes on the shelf. One of Malaysia’s best-selling vitamin c supplements now comes fortified with zinc! These tablets are effervescent, which means that they dissolve in a liquid. Plus, Flavettes are even orange-flavoured, making them oh-so-easy to drink and great for kids. The combination of vitamin C and zinc can really boost your immune system, in addition to lower heart disease, brighten the skin, and boost collagen production, among other benefits. Definitely one of our top picks for best zinc supplements in Malaysia!

Why we love it:

  • Contains vitamin C
  • Effervescent
  • Orange-flavoured

Cons:

  • Only contains 30 tablets

Price: RM 46.89

Where to buy: Watsons

5. Swisse Ultiboost Zinc+

The Swisse Ultiboost Zinc+ is another great option if you want to boost your immune system. These one-a-day tablets are high in zinc, vitamin C, and other essential vitamins and minerals, in addition to natural plant extracts to support a healthy immune system, boost healthy skin function, as well as support bot men and women’s reproductive health. There are 60 tablets included, so just one bottle of the Swisse Ultiboost Zinc+ can support you for two months, and at only R62, we think it’s quite economical.

Why we love it:

  • Affordable
  • Supports immune, skin, and reproductive health
  • One-a-day

Cons:

  • Size of tablet may be difficult to swallow

Price: RM 62

Where to buy: Lazada

6. Life Extension Enhanced Zinc Lozenges

If you’re not one to swallow pills, how about lozenges instead? The Enhanced Zinc Lozenges by Life Extension were made to slowly dissolve in your mouth, which may be easier for some people. These lozenges are particularly great if you have the common cold, and research has shown that the zinc acetate found in these lozenges may be able to reduce the duration of common colds by up to 40%. Adults can take one lozenge every two hours, for up to eight times per day, but be sure not to take these lozenges for more than three consecutive days.

Why we love it:

  • Lozenge form
  • Vegetarian
  • Reduces symptoms and duration of common cold

Cons:

  • Contains one teaspoon of sugar per lozenge

Price: RM 64

Where to buy: Fruugo

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