Jarrow Formulas Zinc Balance
Brand: Jarrow Formulas · Form: CAPSULE [E0159] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that Jarrow Formulas Zinc Balance is a targeted supplement for supporting immune function and overall health, but our assessment focuses on the key ingredient zinc. The data indicates that zinc plays a critical role in immune cell function and is essential for normal growth and development [NIH ODS]. For general health, you should aim for the recommended dietary allowance of 11 mg per day for adult men and 8 mg per day for adult women, but specific dosing depends on your individual needs [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of zinc as a gatekeeper for your immune system — it helps activate T-cells, which are your body's frontline defenders against infection [NIH ODS]. Zinc also supports enzyme function and DNA synthesis, making it vital for wound healing and tissue repair [NIH ODS]. The "balance" in this product refers to the inclusion of copper, which is important because high doses of zinc over time can deplete copper levels in your body [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
Data not available for this specific product. However, the FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all dietary supplements, though a breakdown for zinc alone is not provided [FDA data]. General safety data for zinc indicates that taking high doses (above 40 mg per day for adults) can lead to copper deficiency, nausea, and a weakened immune system over time [NIH ODS]. You should also be aware that zinc can reduce the absorption of certain antibiotics and other medications [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
For most adults, a daily dose of 11 mg for men or 8 mg for women from food and supplements is appropriate [NIH ODS]. Since Jarrow Formulas Zinc Balance includes copper to offset potential depletion, it is a reasonable choice if you plan to take zinc for more than a few weeks. Start with one capsule daily and do not exceed the upper limit of 40 mg per day from all sources combined. If you take antibiotics or thyroid medication, separate your zinc dose by at least two hours [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Jarrow Formulas |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 100.0 Veggie Cap(s) |
| Market Status | On 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