Minerals - Best absorbed in chelate or bisglycinate form!

This product contains zinc bisglycinate zinc. In this process each zinc particle is powerfully bound (chelated) to two (up to) molecules of the amino acid glycine. Such a compound is generally referred to as an amino acid chelate or an amino-acid-chelated mineral. The Greek origin of the term “chelate” means something like “claw”.

This type of compound was chosen because its bioavailability is particularly high. Vitals uses only genuine amino acid chelates from Albion Minerals, recognisable by the TRAACS® brand, which stands for The Real Amino Acid Chelate System. This brand serves to distinguish them from other amino acid chelates that may be inferior or unstable. Albion holds over 100 patents worldwide that protect the process, the science and the structure of their amino-acid-chelated minerals. Their minerals are also analysed, and every batch produced undergoes quality testing. It must in any case be verified whether chelation has actually occurred and whether the bonds are sufficiently strong.

Advantages of amino-acid-chelated minerals

The structure of an amino acid chelate is robust enough to withstand attack by stomach acid and digestive enzymes (unlike other mineral compounds), yet sufficiently weak to release the mineral element after uptake by the intestinal cells. The amino acids surround the mineral element and protect it during digestion so that it cannot be lost. In addition, the electrical charge of the chelate is neutral, which means it does not bind to food particles in the stomach and intestines. Thus the amino acid chelate reaches the small intestine intact, where it is absorbed as a dipeptide (a compound of two amino acids). This is very advantageous because the body can take up amino acids (especially dipeptides) extremely easily, particularly when they are derived from the smallest amino acid, glycine. Amino-acid-chelated minerals are much better absorbed than other types of minerals. The amino-acid-chelated mineral is taken up by active transport into the mucosal epithelial cells of the jejunum (middle part of the small intestine) without competing with other minerals. Only through metabolic processes in the mucosal cells is the glycine broken down together with the mineral and made available to the various organs and body systems.

Effects of zinc in the body

Because of its extensive and versatile effects, zinc is often used by therapists. Zinc is present in all body tissues and is particularly concentrated in the cell nucleus. The mineral is essential for the function of over 300 enzymes, the metalloenzymes that use a zinc ion as a cofactor. It also forms an important part of the structure of proteins and cell membranes. In this way, zinc is involved in numerous processes in the body, such as cell division and hormonal balance. Zinc is also involved in the normal breakdown and synthesis of carbohydrates, fats, proteins and DNA. Zinc has a positive effect on the immune system by supporting T cell production, promoting the production of cytokines and contributing to the function of natural killer cells. Zinc protects cells from oxidative damage, among other things through its role in the function of the antioxidant enzymes catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD). It also helps to maintain a healthy acid–base balance. Zinc acts as a cofactor for carbonic anhydrase, an enzyme that converts carbon dioxide into bicarbonate (and vice versa). Bicarbonate represents one of the crucial buffers that helps keep the acidity of the blood and other extracellular fluids as constant as possible.

Without copper

Zinc and copper are antagonistic to one another. An intake of 50 mg or more of zinc per day over a period of more than one month can lead to low copper levels, which is undesirable. Excess copper is also problematic, especially for older people. Therefore Vitals has deliberately chosen not to combine zinc and copper in this product. It is assumed that it is quite likely that someone will also be taking a daily multivitamin and mineral preparation and thus already consuming additional copper. It is recommended that at a dosage of 45 mg/day (3 capsules) additional copper be supplemented, ideally at a different time of day to avoid competition for absorption.

Nutritional properties

• Zinc contributes to a normal acid–base metabolism and to a normal carbohydrate metabolism.
• Zinc contributes to normal cognitive function and to the maintenance of normal vision.
• Zinc contributes to normal fertility and normal reproduction.
• Zinc contributes to a normal macronutrient metabolism and to a normal vitamin A metabolism.
• Zinc contributes to a normal fatty acid metabolism and to a normal protein synthesis.
• Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal bones, hair, nails and skin.
• Zinc contributes to the maintenance of a normal testosterone level in the blood.
• Zinc contributes to normal immune system function and helps protect cells from oxidative stress.
• Zinc has a role in cell division and contributes to normal DNA synthesis.

Nutritional information

*Reference intake according to Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011
TRAACS® (“The Real Amino Acid Chelate System”) is a registered trademark of Albion Minerals

Ingredients

Anti-caking agent (rice fibres), zinc bisglycinate, vegetable capsule (pullulan, from fermented cassava starch).

Recommended intake

Take 1 capsule per day with water at a meal.

Notes from EnergyVital

Swiss customers please note that this zinc may not be imported, because Switzerland has a maximum level of 5.3 mg zinc for food supplements. If it is nevertheless ordered, we accept no liability for any issues with customs.

Storage instructions

Store cool, dry and protected from light (do not refrigerate).

Legal notice

Do not exceed the recommended daily intake. Food supplements are not a substitute for a balanced and varied diet and a healthy lifestyle. Keep out of reach of young children.