Can Taking Zinc on an Empty Stomach Cause Stomach Pain?

Q: Can Taking Zinc on an Empty Stomach Cause Stomach Pain?

Hello YOYO： 1. <br>Trace element zinc is primarily distributed in muscles and bones, participating in the body's structure and composition, and is responsible for physiological and biochemical functions within the body. <br>Zinc is mainly absorbed through the gastrointestinal tra

Taking zinc on an empty stomach?

Taking zinc tablets (50mg) on an empty stomach one morning resulted in stomach pain throughout the day.
Is it advisable to avoid taking zinc on an empty stomach? Thank you.

YOYO, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/08/07

Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology

Hello YOYO: 1.
Trace element zinc is primarily distributed in muscles and bones, participating in the body's structure and composition, and is responsible for physiological and biochemical functions within the body.
Zinc is mainly absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract and respiratory system, stored in various organ tissues, and excreted through urine, sweat, breast milk, and the kidneys.
Taking zinc supplements may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, and copper deficiency as side effects.
2.
Whether zinc can be taken on an empty stomach: since zinc can cause nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal discomfort, its intake is not necessarily related to being on an empty stomach; however, individual constitution may also play a role.
Long-term supplementation is not required, as zinc can be obtained from food sources.
Foods high in zinc include oysters, shrimp, pork, liver, eggs, brewer's yeast, milk, legumes, and wheat germ, all of which are rich in zinc.

Reply Date: 2013/08/07

More Info

Taking zinc supplements, especially in higher doses like 50 mg, on an empty stomach can indeed lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, including stomach pain. Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including immune response, protein synthesis, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. However, it can also be irritating to the stomach lining, particularly when taken without food.

When zinc is ingested on an empty stomach, it can cause nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain in some individuals. This is because zinc can stimulate gastric acid secretion, which may lead to irritation of the gastric mucosa. The irritation is often exacerbated if there is no food in the stomach to buffer the acid. Therefore, it is generally recommended to take zinc supplements with food to minimize these potential side effects.

In terms of dosage, the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for zinc varies by age and gender, but for most adults, it ranges from 8 to 11 mg per day. Taking 50 mg of zinc is significantly higher than the RDA and may not be necessary unless prescribed by a healthcare provider for specific medical reasons, such as a diagnosed deficiency. Chronic high doses of zinc can lead to toxicity, resulting in symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, and even interference with the absorption of other essential minerals like copper.

If you are experiencing stomach pain after taking zinc on an empty stomach, it would be wise to discontinue its use until you can consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance on the appropriate dosage and timing for taking zinc supplements, as well as evaluate whether you need supplementation at all.

In summary, while zinc is an important nutrient, taking it on an empty stomach can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. It is advisable to take it with food to reduce the risk of stomach pain and to adhere to recommended dosages to avoid potential toxicity. If stomach pain persists or if you have concerns about your zinc intake, consulting a healthcare provider is the best course of action.

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