What is the Difference Between Zinc Gluconate and Zinc Glycinate?

The main difference between zinc gluconate and zinc glycinate lies in their molecular structures and absorption rates.

Zinc gluconate is a type of organic zinc supplement that has a zinc salt of gluconic acid. It is one of the most widely available forms of zinc and is often used in over-the-counter supplements, lozenges, and sprays. Zinc gluconate has a solubility that makes it easier for the body to absorb.
Zinc glycinate is a compound of zinc and glycine, an essential amino acid. It is considered to have better absorption in the body due to the combination of zinc and glycine. In a clinical trial, zinc bisglycinate (a form of zinc glycinate) resulted in 43% higher zinc blood levels than zinc gluconate.

Both zinc gluconate and zinc glycinate are used as dietary supplements to strengthen the immune system and reduce inflammation. However, zinc glycinate is thought to have a higher absorption rate compared to zinc gluconate, making it potentially more effective in meeting your recommended zinc intake.

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What is the Difference Between Zinc Gluconate and Zinc Glycinate?

Comparative Table: Zinc Gluconate vs Zinc Glycinate

Zinc Gluconate and Zinc Glycinate are two different forms of zinc supplements. Here is a comparison table highlighting their differences:

Parameter	Zinc Gluconate	Zinc Glycinate
Definition	Zinc gluconate is a zinc salt of gluconic acid.	Zinc glycinate is a compound of zinc and glycine.
Ability to Strengthen Immune System	It performs well in strengthening the immune system.	It has a nitrogen-containing zinc complex, which helps strengthen the immune system and reduce inflammation.
Absorption	Has an absorption rate of 61%.	Results in 43% higher zinc blood levels than zinc gluconate.
In Vitro Bioaccessibility	Found to have lower bioaccessibility compared to zinc citrate.	Found to have higher bioaccessibility compared to zinc sulfate.
Taste	May have a more bitter and astringent taste.	May provide an alternative to the more bitter and astringent taste of other zinc supplements.

In summary, zinc gluconate is a salt of gluconic acid, while zinc glycinate is a compound of zinc and glycine. Zinc glycinate has a higher absorption rate and bioaccessibility compared to zinc gluconate, making it a more effective option for strengthening the immune system and reducing inflammation.

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.