30 Seconds SummaryResearch Spotlight: Does zinc supplementation cause weight loss or weight gain?
- Zinc is essential for many bodily functions including metabolism, immune response, and enzyme activity.
- A meta-analysis showed zinc supplementation has a negligible effect on weight loss (-0.04kg) across various populations.
- No significant weight change was observed in all individuals with a BMI ≥ 25 or those with BMI < 25.
- Zinc supplementation did show some weight loss in overweight/obese people without other health issues, but the effect disappeared after adjusting for study duration.
- In contrast, zinc increased weight in individuals with osteoporosis or on hemodialysis, and decreased weight in those with depression, though these results are based on limited studies.
- Overall, zinc supplementation isn't likely to significantly affect weight loss or gain in healthy, non-deficient individuals.
- Further review indicates zinc supplementation does not significantly improve strength, endurance, or testosterone in exercising adults.
- Athletes and those with high physical activity should ensure adequate zinc intake, found in foods like shellfish, beef, nuts, and seeds, to prevent deficiency.
Stronger By Science
Eric Trexler