Zinc citrate vs zinc gluconate
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Comparative Analysis of Zinc Citrate vs. Zinc Gluconate
Zinc Absorption Efficiency
Zinc Citrate and Zinc Gluconate Absorption Rates
Research indicates that zinc citrate and zinc gluconate have comparable absorption rates in humans. A study involving 15 healthy adults demonstrated that the median fractional absorption of zinc from zinc citrate was 61.3%, which was not significantly different from the 60.9% absorption rate of zinc gluconate. This suggests that both forms of zinc are equally effective in terms of bioavailability when taken as supplements without food.
Comparative Absorption with Other Zinc Compounds
In comparison to zinc oxide, both zinc citrate and zinc gluconate show superior absorption rates. Zinc oxide had a significantly lower absorption rate of 49.9%, with some individuals showing minimal absorption. This highlights the advantage of using zinc citrate or zinc gluconate over zinc oxide for better zinc uptake.
Zinc Bioavailability in Different Forms
Zinc Picolinate vs. Zinc Citrate and Zinc Gluconate
Another study compared the absorption of zinc picolinate, zinc citrate, and zinc gluconate. It was found that zinc picolinate significantly increased zinc levels in hair, urine, and erythrocytes, whereas zinc citrate and zinc gluconate did not show significant changes in these parameters. This suggests that while zinc citrate and zinc gluconate are effective, zinc picolinate might offer superior bioavailability in certain contexts.
Dialyzability in Infant Formulas
When considering zinc supplementation in infant formulas, zinc gluconate and zinc citrate show different levels of dialyzability. Zinc gluconate has a higher dialyzability compared to zinc citrate, making it a preferable choice for infant formulas to ensure better zinc availability.
Sensory Properties and Stability
Sensory Properties in Syrups
Zinc citrate is noted for its better sensory properties in syrups compared to other zinc compounds. This makes it a more palatable option for zinc supplementation in liquid forms, especially for children.
Stability in Lozenges
In the context of zinc lozenges, the stability constants of zinc salts do not significantly affect their anti-volatile sulfur compounds (VSC) effect. Both zinc citrate and zinc gluconate, despite their different stability constants, were effective in reducing VSCs, which are responsible for bad breath. This indicates that both forms can be used effectively in lozenges.
Conclusion
Both zinc citrate and zinc gluconate are effective forms of zinc supplementation with comparable absorption rates. Zinc citrate offers better sensory properties in syrups, making it a suitable option for children, while zinc gluconate may be more effective in infant formulas due to its higher dialyzability. Overall, the choice between zinc citrate and zinc gluconate can be based on specific use cases and personal preferences, as both provide similar bioavailability and health benefits.
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