How to Rapidly Increase Your Zinc Level from 47 to Above 62
For acquired zinc deficiency, take 0.5–1 mg/kg per day of elemental zinc orally for 3–4 months, with organic compounds like zinc gluconate showing better tolerability than inorganic forms like zinc sulfate. 1
Understanding Your Zinc Level
A zinc level of 47 (assuming μg/dL) indicates zinc deficiency that requires treatment. 1 The normal range typically starts around 60-62 μg/dL, so you need approximately 15 μg/dL increase to reach normal status.
Recommended Treatment Approach
Dosing Strategy
The ESPEN guidelines provide the most specific dosing recommendation: 1
- Take 0.5–1 mg/kg of elemental zinc daily (for a 70 kg person, this equals 35–70 mg daily)
- Duration: 3–4 months of continuous supplementation 1
- Recheck zinc levels after 3 months to assess response 1
Choosing the Right Zinc Formulation
Organic zinc compounds are superior for absorption and tolerability: 1
- Zinc gluconate (better tolerated) 1, 2
- Zinc histidinate (better tolerated) 1
- Zinc orotate (better tolerated) 1
Avoid inorganic forms like zinc sulfate and zinc chloride, which have comparatively worse tolerability. 1
Critical Monitoring Requirements
Check Copper Levels Before Starting
You must check both zinc AND copper levels before initiating zinc supplementation. 1 This is essential because:
- High zinc intake can induce copper deficiency 1
- The recommended ratio is 8–15 mg zinc to 1 mg copper 1
- Close monitoring is required if higher zinc doses are used 1
If Copper is Also Low
If both zinc and copper are deficient, consider a comprehensive multivitamin containing both minerals (such as two Forceval daily) for 3 months and recheck levels. 1
Factors That Will Accelerate or Impede Your Response
Dietary Factors That Inhibit Zinc Absorption (Avoid These)
Phytate is the strongest inhibitor of zinc absorption: 3
- Present in cereals, corn, and rice 3
- Inositol hexaphosphates and pentaphosphates exert the strongest negative effects 3
- Reduce consumption of high-phytate foods during supplementation
Other inhibitors to minimize: 3
- High iron supplements taken simultaneously (though food-based iron is fine) 3
- Cadmium exposure 3
- Casein has modest inhibitory effects compared to other proteins 3
Dietary Factors That Enhance Zinc Absorption (Maximize These)
Protein increases zinc absorption: 3
- Adequate protein intake has a positive effect 3
- Choose protein sources other than casein when possible 3
Low-molecular-weight enhancers: 3
Timeline Expectations
Realistic timeframe for normalization:
- Total zinc absorption increases immediately with supplementation 4
- Serum zinc concentrations may take 3–4 months to normalize 1
- This is NOT a rapid process—there is no evidence-based "fast" method to achieve normal levels in days or weeks
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Do Not Exceed Safe Doses
Zinc toxicity occurs when ingestion exceeds 1–2 grams: 1
- Symptoms of toxicity include nausea, vomiting, and copper deficiency 5
- Long-term high-dose zinc causes suppressed immunity, decreased HDL cholesterol, anemia, and copper deficiency 5
Monitor for Copper Deficiency
If copper levels fall during zinc treatment or there is no improvement in zinc levels after 3 months, refer for specialist advice. 1
Ensure Adequate Follow-Up
Recheck zinc levels after 3 months of supplementation. 1 If levels remain low despite adequate supplementation, investigate for:
- Malabsorption syndromes 1
- Ongoing gastrointestinal losses 1
- Underlying conditions affecting zinc metabolism 1
Special Considerations
Simultaneous measurement of CRP and albumin is required for proper interpretation of zinc levels, as inflammation can affect zinc measurements. 1