Zinc vs OptiZinc®: Which is Best For Supplementation

Zinc is an essential mineral involved in hundreds of enzymatic reactions throughout the body. It plays a role in immune health, recovery, and supports healthy hormone levels (like testosterone).

But not all zinc supplements are created equal. The form of zinc you take can make a big difference in how well your body absorbs and uses it. Common forms of zinc, like zinc acetate and zinc sulfate, have questionable bioavailability (absorption).

That’s why in Kaged’s hormone support supplements, we only use OptiZinc®.

What Is OptiZinc®?

OptiZinc® is a patented form of zinc where the mineral is bound to methionine, an amino acid.

Because it’s bound to methionine, its altered chemical structure helps your body take in and retain more zinc compared to some other common forms.

Research shows that OptiZinc® can:

Deliver better absorption than zinc oxide or zinc sulfate.*
Maintain higher plasma zinc levels for longer periods of time.*

Both zinc and OptiZinc® provide the essential mineral your body needs—but OptiZinc® offers an advantage in bioavailability. That means you get more benefit from the same dose, especially when it comes to supporting testosterone and overall performance.*

That’s why at Kaged, we include OptiZinc® in our testosterone-supporting formulas: to give you the most effective form of zinc for your goals.

The Research on OptiZinc®

OptiZinc® is not a new form. In fact, there are dozens of research studies involving zinc methionine dating back to the 80s.

The most comprehensive review of this research from a 2008 review study published in BioFactors, opens in a new tab, which looked specifically at the bioavailability and antioxidant properties of this zinc form.

They conclude, “Given its superior bioavailability, antioxidant and immune-enhancing properties, zinc methionine may serve as a novel dietary supplement to promote health benefits in humans and animals.”

The Bottom Line

The bottom line for this ingredient is simple. It comes down to absorption. And the research showcasing zinc methionine’s (aka OptiZinc®) improved bioavailability means that it’s the form you should be looking for when looking at supplements.

Front view of Kaged Ferodrox supplement jar with lid off and two capsules on a gym mat, blurred gym background