Zinc Complexe

Zinc Complexe combines four complementary active ingredients in a single daily dose. Each capsule provides 15 mg of zinc as bisglycinate and picolinate, equivalent to 150% of the nutrient reference value. The formula also contains 55 µg of selenium as L-selenomethionine, 1.4 mg of vitamin B6 and 302.5 mg of lithothamnion thallus powder.

Zinc plays a central role in this combination. Immune cells need to renew rapidly and communicate with one another to ensure an appropriate response. Zinc contributes to normal DNA synthesis, cell division and protein synthesis. It is also involved in the signals that enable the activation and coordination of the various immune cells.

At the same time, this trace element contributes to protecting cells against oxidative stress. It supports the function of several enzyme systems and protective proteins that limit the effects of oxidising molecules naturally produced by metabolism. Zinc also contributes to the maintenance of normal skin, hair, nails, vision and bones, as well as normal cognitive function.

Our formula combines zinc bisglycinate and picolinate. In bisglycinate, the mineral is bound to glycine molecules, while picolinate combines it with picolinic acid. These two organic forms are used to facilitate the availability of zinc in the digestive tract.

Selenium complements the action of zinc on immunity and cellular protection. Supplied as L-selenomethionine, an organic form similar to the amino acid methionine, it is used to make selenoproteins. These include enzymes responsible for controlling peroxides and preserving the oxidative balance of cells. Other selenoproteins contribute to normal thyroid function. Selenium also contributes to the maintenance of normal hair and nails and normal spermatogenesis.

Vitamin B6 acts as a cofactor in numerous reactions. After being converted into its active form by the body, it contributes to protein, glycogen and energy metabolism. It also supports normal red blood cell formation, the function of the nervous system and psychological functions. Its presence reinforces the formula’s consistency, as it contributes to both the normal function of the immune system and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.

Lithothamnion is a red marine alga whose thallus naturally mineralises. Its powder provides the formula with a mineral matrix of marine origin.

Thanks to its three micronutrients dosed at 100% or more of the NRV, Zinc Complexe is particularly suitable during periods when nutritional intake and natural defences require special attention. Our formula may also support adults looking for help with tiredness or wishing to take care of their skin, hair and nails.

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Who is this product for?

Zinc Complexe may notably be suitable for:

  •  adults wishing to support the normal function of their immune defences, particularly during seasonal changes or demanding periods;
  •  people whose diet provides few regular sources of zinc, selenium or vitamin B6;
  •  vegetarian or vegan adults, as the product is compatible with these diets; phytates found in certain grains and pulses may also reduce dietary zinc absorption;
  •  people experiencing temporary tiredness, thanks to vitamin B6, which contributes to reducing tiredness and maintaining normal energy-yielding metabolism;
  •  adults wishing to combine immune support, protection against oxidative stress and the normal maintenance of the skin, hair and nails.

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What does the science say?

An American study published in 2016 investigated whether improving zinc status could influence the function of T lymphocytes, cells essential to the immune response, in older people with low blood zinc levels.

The trial was conducted in three nursing homes in the Boston area. Of the 53 residents assessed, 31 adults aged at least 65 with a serum zinc concentration below 70 µg/dL were randomly divided into two groups.

For three months, 16 participants received 30 mg of zinc per day as gluconate, while the 15 participants in the control group received 5 mg. The study was conducted double-blind. The comparator therefore contained a low dose of zinc rather than a placebo entirely free of this trace element.

The average increase in serum zinc was 16% greater in the group receiving 30 mg, after accounting for baseline values, with a statistically significant difference (p = 0.007). The number of T lymphocytes and their proliferation after two types of laboratory stimulation also increased significantly (p < 0.05). When proliferation was adjusted for the number of lymphocytes, the difference between groups disappeared: the observed effect therefore appeared mainly related to the increase in the total number of T cells.

These results illustrate the link between zinc status and certain parameters of cellular immunity in older people who initially had low zinc levels.

Reference: Barnett JB, Dao MC, Hamer DH, Kandel R, Brandeis G, Wu D, Dallal GE, Jacques PF, Schreiber R, Kong E, Meydani SN. Effect of zinc supplementation on serum zinc concentration and T cell proliferation in nursing home elderly: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2016;103(3):942-951. DOI 10.3945/ajcn.115.115188 — PubMed.