Jarrow Formulas Zinc Balance
Brand: Jarrow Formulas · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that a zinc supplement like Jarrow Formulas Zinc Balance is a targeted option for supporting immune function, but it must be used with care. Our assessment is that while zinc is essential, the specific formulation here is designed to balance zinc with copper, which is a thoughtful approach for long-term use. However, the data provided does not include specific details on zinc itself, so we must rely on general principles. For calcium, which is a component of many mineral balances, the data shows it supports bone mineralization and nerve signaling [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of zinc as a gatekeeper for your immune system — it helps your body produce and activate white blood cells to fight off threats. The "balance" in this product likely refers to the addition of copper, which is important because high doses of zinc over time can deplete copper levels in your body. For calcium, the mechanism involves supporting bone density and neuromuscular relaxation, helping your muscles relax and nerves signal properly [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all dietary supplements, but specific report counts for this product are not available. For calcium, which may be included in some formulations, high intakes can increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. High blood levels of calcium can cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent urination, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS]. Data for zinc-specific side effects is not provided.
Our recommendation
Start with the dose on the label and do not exceed the recommended daily allowance unless under medical supervision. Because zinc can interfere with the absorption of medications like antibiotics and levothyroxine, take this supplement at a different time of day than those drugs [NIH ODS]. Choose this balanced formula if you plan to take zinc for more than a few weeks, as it helps protect against copper deficiency. For long-term use, have your copper and zinc levels checked by a healthcare provider. Data not available for specific interactions with this exact product.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Jarrow Formulas |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 100.0 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