NOW Zinc Glycinate
Brand: NOW · Form: SOFTGEL CAPSULE [E0161]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that zinc is an essential mineral, but for this specific product — NOW Zinc Glycinate — the data on its active ingredient is limited. According to the data provided, the primary ingredient listed is calcium, not zinc. Our assessment is that there is a significant data gap. We cannot confirm the benefits or risks of this specific formulation based on the information available. Data not available for zinc glycinate benefits or mechanism from the provided sources.
How it works
Based on the data provided, the ingredient calcium works through two key mechanisms: bone mineralization, where it supports bone density and mineral deposition, and neuromuscular relaxation, where it supports muscle relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. However, this data applies to calcium, not zinc glycinate. For zinc glycinate specifically, the mechanism of action is not provided in the data.
Safety profile
The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all dietary supplement products, but specific report counts for NOW Zinc Glycinate are not available. For the ingredient calcium, side effects from high blood and urine levels include 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]. Additionally, calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
We cannot recommend NOW Zinc Glycinate based on the data provided. The product label lists calcium as the ingredient, and the data does not contain specific safety or efficacy information for zinc glycinate. If you are seeking a zinc supplement, please consult your healthcare provider for a product with clear, evidence-based data. For calcium, the data suggests caution with high intakes due to potential risks to heart and kidney health [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 120.0 Softgel(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