Life Extension Zinc Caps 50 mg
Brand: Life Extension · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that Life Extension Zinc Caps 50 mg is a straightforward zinc supplement. However, you should be aware that the primary data available for this specific product relates to calcium, not zinc, due to the way the information is structured. For zinc-specific health claims, data is not available from the provided sources. Our assessment is that you should use this product only if you have a confirmed zinc deficiency, as general supplementation at 50 mg can be high for daily use without medical guidance.
How it works
Based on the data provided, the supplement's active ingredient is not detailed separately. However, for context on minerals in general, calcium works through bone mineralization by supporting bone density and mineral deposition, and through neuromuscular relaxation by supporting muscle relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. For the specific mechanism of zinc in this product, data is not available from the provided sources.
Safety profile
The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplement categories [FDA data]. For calcium, which is the ingredient with safety data provided, high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. High levels of calcium in the blood and urine can cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent need to urinate, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS]. For zinc-specific side effects and report counts, data is not available from the provided sources.
Our recommendation
We recommend that you do not take this supplement without first consulting a healthcare provider to check your zinc levels. Because 50 mg is a high dose, it may exceed the tolerable upper intake level for zinc over time, which can lead to copper deficiency and other issues. For safety, you should also be aware that calcium (if present in your regimen) can reduce the absorption of medications like bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Data is not available for specific zinc interactions from the provided sources.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Life Extension |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 90.0 Vegetarian Capsule(s) |
| Market Status | Off Market |
How to Read This Label
Supplement labels contain several key sections regulated by the FDA:
- Serving Size — The recommended amount per dose. Always check this — some products require multiple capsules per serving.
- Amount Per Serving — Shows the quantity of each nutrient in the product, typically in IU (International Units), mg (milligrams), or mcg (micrograms).
- % Daily Value (%DV) — Indicates how much a nutrient in a serving contributes to a daily diet. 5% DV or less is low; 20% DV or more is high.
- Other Ingredients — Lists inactive ingredients like fillers, binders, and capsule materials (e.g., gelatin, cellulose, magnesium stearate).
- Suggested Use — The manufacturer's recommended directions for taking the supplement, including timing and dosage.
Source: FDA Dietary Supplement Labeling Guide