Why should zinc be taken with copper?

The relationship between hair loss and micronutrient deficiencies is not often discussed at scientific conferences. Of all the mineral deficiencies, only iron deficiency attracts the attention of domestic trichologists. However, when reviewing the scientific literature, we can find that zinc and copper play a large role in the physiology and pathology of hair.

Zinc. Basic provisions

Biological role of zinc

Zinc is part of more than 300 metalloenzymes, is part of the genetic apparatus of the cell, representing up to 100 zinc-containing nucleoproteins, and is indispensable at many key stages of gene expression. The participation of zinc in regeneration processes determines its high concentration in rapidly dividing cells (lymphocytes, enterocytes, etc.).

Intake of zinc into the body

• wheat grain;
• millet;
• some varieties of cabbage.

The main source of zinc is plants rich in chlorophyll (onion, spinach, watercress), grains, legumes, lentils, beans. As grain products are purified from bran, the zinc content in them (polished rice, flour) decreases significantly.

Also contain zinc mushrooms, nuts, dairy products, meat and liver. Vegetables, berries and fruits are low in zinc:

• from 8 to 20 mg/kg – in some grains, yeast, onions, garlic, brown rice, eggs.
• 20-50 mg/kg – in oatmeal, barley flour, cocoa, molasses, egg yolk, rabbit and chicken meat, nuts, peas, beans, lentils, green tea, dried yeast, squid;
• about 130-202 mg/kg – in bran and sprouted grains of wheat, pumpkin and sunflower seeds.

(Avtsyn A.P.1991)

Absorption of zinc

Presence in food large amounts of iron reduce zinc absorption approximately 2 times. Presence Copper also reduces zinc absorption. Absorption of zinc occurs mainly in the small intestine. Mercury is also an antagonist of zinc, as is selenium.

When fish food is abused in the diet, especially raw fish (sushi), competition arises between mercury, zinc and selenium ions, which negatively affects the general condition of a person, since mercury is practically not excreted from the body.

Long-term zinc supplementation

With long-term intake of zinc in supratherapeutic doses, copper deficiency may occur due to the fact that competitive absorption of zinc and copper, mediated by metallothioneins, takes place in enterocytes.

Zinc and inflammation

Patients with chronic inflammatory kidney diseases are at risk for developing zinc deficiency due to its increased consumption. The presence of an inflammatory process is directly cause of increased zinc intake for the needs of reparation, intense antioxidant protection and restoration of the disturbed energy balance of damaged cells and their structures.

A sufficient intake of zinc does not prevent zinc deficiency in kidney pathology, since its excretion in urine in such patients is higher.

Zinc and taste

Zinc is present in a specific protein – Gustin, produced by the parotid salivary glands. Gustin is responsible for human taste sensations.

Zinc and immunity

Zinc is actively involved in immunogenesis, influencing the synthesis of T-lymphocytes and stimulating the agocytic activity of neutrophils.

Zinc deficiency contributes to a decrease in the population of natural killer cells and a decrease in the ability of neutrophils to intracellularly kill microorganisms.

Zinc and regulation of carbohydrate metabolism

It was found that the zinc content in the pancreas of patients suffering from diabetes mellitus was significantly lower, which directly indicated the participation of zinc in the storage of insulin by pancreatic cells. The insulin molecule contains two zinc atoms.

Zinc and vision

Zinc is involved in the transfer of retinol from the liver to the retina and in the regeneration of rhodopsin during dark adaptation, participates in the synaptic transmission of nerve impulses in the retina, and maintains the stability of plasma membranes in photoreceptors.

Zinc is part of the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase (4 zinc atoms per molecule).

Zinc and pregnancy

The concentration of zinc in hair during miscarriage in all studied groups significantly decreased, especially in women with premature termination of the gestational period.

Copper concentration did not correlate with miscarriage. (Knyazeva T. P. 2005)

Zinc and dermatology

Anti-inflammatory properties of zinc and skin

After a 3-hour incubation of P. acnesc with zinc salts, the negative effect in cell culture significantly decreased compared to the control group. Inhibition of the production of inducible keratinocyte NO synthase (iNOS), responsible for the production of NO. In acne, iNOS activity is increased. In large quantities, NO is transformed into peroxynitrite (ONOO-), which causes tissue damage and inflammation. Suppression of degranulation of mast cells and basophils was observed.

The above suggests that the anti-inflammatory properties of zinc make it possible to use it both for the prevention and treatment of inflammatory dermatoses.

Zinc and wound healing

Zinc reduces damage to cells and their genetic apparatus caused by UV irradiation and increases the resistance of skin fibroblasts to oxidative damage (additionally dissipates UV radiation).

The enzymes necessary for wound healing MMP (matrix metalloproteinase) and alkaline phosphatase are zinc-containing.

Within 24 hours after injury, zinc concentrations at the wound edges increase by 15%-20%. At the time of granulation and proliferation up to 30%

Antibacterial properties of zinc

The sensitivity of Propionibacterium acnes to zinc is higher than that of staphylococci, which is due to the inhibition of lipase enzymes necessary for this microorganism by zinc.

Zinc pyrithione has a fungicidal effect on fungi of the genus Malassezia.

Zinc salts have deodorizing properties – it has been suggested that this may be due to the fact that the unpleasant odor in the area of ​​large folds appears due to the interaction of bacteria with the secretion of apocrine sweat glands, while zinc has an inhibitory effect on bacterial exoenzymes.

Absorption of zinc by the epidermis

Low pH values ​​and increased hydration promote transdermal absorption of zinc. When using acidic zinc compounds, for example, zinc chloride with the use of occlusion, an increase in the binding of zinc to epidermal keratin was noted. (lansdownABG. 1991) A study by M. Agren (1990) demonstrated that when a zinc-containing occlusive adhesive dressing was applied to healthy skin of the human forearm, zinc accumulated in the stratum corneum of the epidermis, and with prolonged exposure penetrated into deeper layers; increased zinc concentrations in the interstitial fluid and dermis were observed within 48 hours.

Acrodermatitis enteropathica

One of the most pronounced examples of zinc deficiency is a hereditary disease caused by impaired zinc binding, manifested by the clinical triad: acrodermatitis, diarrhea and alopecia.

Clinical manifestations of the disease usually appear soon after cessation of breastfeeding. This is due to the absence or sharp decrease in the activity of the zinc-binding factor in patients, which is contained in breast milk.

The main diagnostic criterion is the combination of a rash with damage to the gastrointestinal tract. The basis of pathogenetic therapy is the administration of zinc preparations.

Zinc and psoriasis

Research shows that in advanced psoriasis there is a significant loss of zinc, leading to zinc deficiency (Zhukova N.V. 2010).

1. Loss of zinc through the skin
2. Malabsorption in the small intestine

Zinc and acnevulgaris

• antibacterial effect on P. acne;
• anti-inflammatory effect;
• reduction in sebum production.

Randomized, double-blind studies have demonstrated that systemic zinc sulfate therapy has good clinical effects in severe forms of acne and is less effective in mild to moderate forms.

• Zinc sulfate is not effective topically. Only an irritating effect.
• Curiosin (zinc hyaluronate) – no convincing data
• Zinnerit (erythromycin and zinc acetate) – synergism.
• Zinc “prevents” resistance from appearing. Sebum production is reduced by 20%.

Data show that zinc salts are comparable in effectiveness or slightly inferior to antibiotics (tetracycline, minocycline, etc.)

They can be considered a second line of therapy after antibiotics, or they will be prescribed instead if the drugs are intolerant. (MichaelssonG. atal.,1977)

Special cases: pregnancy and increased solar activity.

The most pronounced effect of systemic zinc therapy is observed in patients with reduced levels of zinc in the blood plasma, which makes it possible to recommend the assessment of this biochemical parameter in patients with severe acne.

Treatment-resistant viral warts

In a randomized placebo-controlled trial f. Al-Gurairi et al. used oral zinc sulfate to treat treatment-resistant viral warts and achieved clinical cure in more than 80% of cases.

In a more recent study by A. Sadighha, 13 patients were treated with zinc sulfate who took the drug orally at a dose of 10 mg/kg per day (up to a maximum of 600 mg per day) for 1 or 2 months. In the first month of treatment, the clinical response rate was 54%, after 2 months. – 76,9%.

It is assumed that the effect of zinc use in the treatment of viral warts is associated with incompletely studied modulation of immune response parameters.

The role of zinc in hair treatment

So back in 1941, Sullivan and Nicholls discovered a connection between hair loss in rats and mice due to zinc deficiency.

Many dietary supplements for stimulating hair and nail growth contain zinc salts (average concentration 15 mg). Considering the biological role zinc plays in the body, including additional zinc in the daily diet would be justified. However, the scientific literature provides conflicting data.

Zinc and 5-alpha reductase

• Zinc and azelaic acid inhibit 5 alpha reductase activity in vitro(StamatiadisD.atal., 1988).
• Cadmium, zinc and copper inhibit type I 5 alpha reductase activity in an in vitro study.
• Copper inhibits the activity of 5 alpha reductase type II (SugimotoY.etal. 1995).

Zinc and diffuse hair loss

A clinical case of treatment of telogen effluvium hair loss in a woman due to zinc deficiency, confirmed in two independent laboratories, is described.

She took 6 mg of zinc daily for 50 months. The diet was also changed. In the first three weeks of treatment, hair loss stopped. 4 months after the end of treatment, no signs of alopecia were observed.

Zinc pyrithione vs Minoxidil

The use of zinc pyrithione for androgenetic alopecia leads to a moderate but sustainable increase in hair growth.

This randomized, single-blind study had a duration of 6 months. and included 200 patients who were randomized to receive treatment with 1% zinc pyrithione shampoo, 5% minoxidil topical solution, placebo shampoo, or a combination of zinc pyrithione and minoxidil.

Zinc and treatment of alopecia areata

It is believed that zinc-dependent chelatase (involved in keratin synthesis) can be activated by excess zinc intake.

Taking Solvezinc 0.2 (45 mg Zn) 3 times a day from 6 months to 2 years allowed to achieve complete hair restoration in 23 of 36 patients with alopeciamaligna and improvement in 50 of 55 patients with alopeciamaligna. Relapses were observed in 16 patients when the drug was stopped even for 1-2 weeks.

Taking zinc oxide 0,02-0,05 (2-3 times a day) in combination with zinc ointment externally – 70,8% of cases of a favorable therapeutic effect out of 125 children.

(Studnitsin A.A. and author 1978)

Of the large number of works devoted to the treatment of alopecia areata (AA), attention is paid to the inclusion of zinc preparations in complex treatment.

The use of zinc oxide from 0,02 mg to 0,04 mg 2-3 times a day after meals for 30 days in 128 children with alopecia areata in complex treatment led to an increase in the number of patients with positive dynamics (from 54,3% to 78,2 .XNUMX%). The best results were obtained by repeating the course

GA in an unfavorable zone

In an environmentally unfavorable environment, when examining children with alopecia (Russian Federation and Belarus), an increase in lead and copper in biological fluids (urine and plasma), an increase in the excretion of zinc in the urine, and a decrease in zinc in the blood plasma were revealed.

Children with total alopecia showed higher urinary excretion of zinc compared to children with alopecia areata. With an increase in urinary excretion of zinc against the background of lead intoxication, loss of eyebrows, eyelashes, skin hair loss, and total alopecia are observed.

Also characteristic signs indicating the presence of dysmicroelementosis in children are changes in the nails: striations, dullness, surface roughness, fragility, flowering.

Zinc and its effect on testosterone and dehydrotestosterone levels

In the scientific literature, you can often see the claim that zinc has antiandrogenic properties. However, a number of studies show that taking zinc supplements not only increases the level of zinc in the blood plasma, but also increases the level of testosterone and dihydrotestosterone with initially low testosterone levels (

When testosterone levels are greater than 4,8 ng/ml, taking zinc supplements leads to an increase in dihydrotestosterone levels, but does not lead to an increase in testosterone levels and sperm count.

(Prasad AS et al. 1996).

Zinc. Conclusion

As practicing trichologists note in their observations, it is dietary supplements containing zinc that improve the condition of hair in women after 40 years. Apparently, zinc has a beneficial effect on the normalization of testosterone levels in physiological hypogonadism.

It turns out that the effect of zinc on the regulation of sex hormones and on hair growth is more complex than expected. On the one hand, its antiandrogenic properties are noted, especially when used externally (at a minimum, a seboregulatory effect); on the other hand, taking zinc supplements can lead to an increase in the level of testosterone and dehydrotestosterone.

We must not forget the role of zinc in the regulation of carbohydrate metabolism, which indirectly affects the regulation of free testosterone. With hyperinsulinemia and high blood glucose levels, the production of sex hormone binding globulin decreases, which in turn leads to increased androgenic effects.

Based on the report Kayumova S. F., Ph.D., President of the Union of Trichologists at IV symposium “Trichology for cosmetologists” as part of XV International Exhibition of Professional Cosmetics and Equipment for Beauty Salons INTERCHARM professional.

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Zinc and copper – a union of antagonists in trichology? Part 2

Copper is one of the main physiological synergists of iron. Good food sources of copper are meat and organ meats, legumes, grains, nuts, and green vegetables.
The diagnosis of copper deficiency is established on the basis of a detected decrease in the concentration of copper and/or ceruloplasmin in the blood serum.
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Zinc and copper are two essential microelements that have a significant impact on many biochemical reactions, cardiovascular health and reproductive system. They are necessary for the production of enzymes and hormones, the synthesis of many vital compounds.

Due to the fact that they act as antagonists in relation to each other, many myths and misconceptions are born. Most of them concern whether zinc and copper can be taken at the same time. Doctors and scientists have long put an end to this issue. When used correctly, following key recommendations and proper dosage selection, these microelements can be used together. But in the case of chaotic and uncontrolled intake, a sharp excess of one of the microelements can cause noticeable side effects from a deficiency of its antagonist.

The role and functions of zinc in the body

• Participates in the synthesis of more than 100 enzymes (including those needed for the metabolism of BJU);
• Necessary for the production of important hormones;
• Directly involved in the functioning of the immune system;
• Increases the regenerative properties of the skin;
• Has an antioxidant effect and protects the body from free radicals and oxidative stress;
• Normalizes the functioning of the reproductive system.

Zinc plays a particularly important role in men’s health. The trace element protects prostate tissue and improves gland function, reduces inflammation and is an effective method of preventing prostatitis and other diseases. For any problems with the gland, doctors prescribe supplements and medications with zinc (tablets, suppositories, etc.). There are many myths and misconceptions about whether you can drink copper and zinc together. In most cases, they are not justified in any way, but when taking a microelement for the prostate for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes, joint use will indeed be undesirable. Primarily due to a decrease in the effectiveness of zinc and the treatment prescribed by the doctor.

Long-term use of zinc will lead to a decrease in copper levels, which will also cause a number of negative side effects. Therefore, doctors always prescribe this microelement on a course basis, no more than 4-5 weeks at high dosages (and up to 8 weeks at dosages at 100% of the daily value).

The role and functions of copper in the body

Copper is a trace element that is often overlooked. This is a serious mistake, since copper is responsible for many important biochemical processes, and its deficiency can lead to serious health problems. Copper is involved in the production of collagen and elastin, and is also needed in the cycle of ATP and hemoglobin synthesis. The body uses copper to maintain cell protection from the toxic effects of activated oxygen. Copper is also needed for the absorption of vitamin C.

Copper levels may decrease due to:

• Alcohol;
• Elevated zinc levels (usually if you take a lot of zinc at the same time without compensating for copper from the same supplements);
• Increased consumption of fructose;
• Increased consumption of iron and molybdenum.

Copper deficiency is also dangerous because it can cause so-called sports anemia, as well as disrupt the blood formation process, inhibit thyroid function, and cause other problems. In women, copper deficiency leads to disruption of the cycle and menstrual function (blood loss can be profuse or, conversely, too mild). Also, a high level of copper automatically reduces the level of zinc, which entails a full range of side effects from a lack of this trace element.

The problem of taking zinc and copper at the same time

Despite the mutually exclusive effects of many micro and macroelements, scientists have long established certain intake rules to maintain balance. Therefore, to the question of whether it is possible to take copper and zinc at the same time, science has an unequivocal answer – it is possible, but only if the basic rules are followed.

If it were not possible to take zinc and copper at the same time, as well as most other micronutrients with antagonistic effects, the multivitamin category would not exist in the industry. Most supplements include a full range of vitamins, micro and macroelements, most of which have their own antagonists. Therefore, the key to the correct joint intake of nutrients is a carefully verified formula that maintains balance.

When can you take copper with zinc without negative consequences:

• In complex multivitamin supplements, where manufacturers overestimate the dosages of some substances to compensate for the inhibition by antagonists. The formula of such additives is initially created taking into account all the features of the interaction of the components;
• When using short courses with small dosages. For example, many supplements contain 50 mg of zinc, which is 4-5 times the normal amount. Supplementation with 15 mg of zinc will not suppress copper levels, but will also provide a therapeutic effect;
• Use supplements where the manufacturer has included an antagonistic microelement in the serving. For example, zinc supplements can include copper at the same time, so that taking one micronutrient does not lead to a strong imbalance.

In most cases, it will not be possible to independently determine the correct ratio of dosages of two microelements. To do this, you will have to select supplements with appropriate dosages. You can also get tested for zinc and copper levels so that supplementation is controlled and does not shift the balance. This will require not only careful calculations and constant monitoring, but also increased financial expenses. Therefore, it is better to use ready-made solutions, where the manufacturer has already included all the calculations and dosages when creating the additive formula.

Food intake and supplement dosage

The standard daily intake of zinc ranges from 8 to 11 mg per day for healthy people. For athletes, this amount can increase to 15 mg (in long courses) and 30 mg (in short cycles). For the treatment and prevention of prostate diseases, as well as in cases of severe zinc deficiency, doctors usually prescribe 50 mg of zinc in courses of 4 to 8 weeks (taken over 5-6 weeks only as directed by a doctor).

The daily intake of copper ranges from 1 to 3-4 mg, depending on body weight and the purpose of intake. The maximum limit for copper consumption without health consequences is 5 mg. It is not recommended to go beyond it, except in cases where increased dosages were prescribed by the attending physician (for certain diseases, the daily copper intake may be temporarily increased).

Food intake should also be monitored as this may affect the separate or simultaneous use of zinc and copper. A lot of copper is found in meat, organ meats, nuts and seeds, seafood and sea fish. To obtain zinc, it is recommended to increase the amount of red meat (not always healthy if consumed in excess), almonds, seafood, cereals and dairy products. But in cases where it is necessary to eliminate the resulting deficiency of microelements, simply consuming foods will not be enough. For these purposes, the use of additives will be required.

Best Zinc and Copper Supplements

Additives are usually divided into 2 categories: those containing zinc and copper at the same time, as well as monocomponent additives.

Best Joint Supplements

They are best suited when it is necessary to consume one of the micronutrients without the risk of causing a deficiency in another.

Zinc Copper Amino Acid Chelate by Solaray

The leading additive in the category from the premium Solaray line. Ideal for taking zinc and copper together from each serving. Contains an increased rate of zinc (50 mg), which is balanced by a base rate of 2 mg of copper. Each microelement is presented in chelated and highest quality forms with maximum bioavailability.

Zinc Copper with Kelp & Pumpkin Seed from Solaray

Another top complex from Solaray. Not only does it include chelated forms of zinc and copper, but it also contains natural iodine (from Atlantic kelp) and pumpkin seed extract. It is an expanded version of the basic complex with additional substances that are aimed at supporting, protecting and restoring prostate tissue.

BioMins from Thorne Research

One of the highest quality supplements, which includes all the necessary microelements. Contains the most bioavailable forms with moderately high dosages. Great for not only replenishing zinc and copper levels, but also other important compounds (which also work in balance and must be supplied to the body in required quantities). The only drawback of the complex is its high cost, like other premium brand supplements.

The best monocomponent supplements

A list of the best supplements that contain one microelement (an antagonist can be added in minimal dosages to balance the balance).

L-OptiZinc 30 mg from NOW

One of the best supplements in the industry. Includes a special patented formula with bioavailable zinc. Another advantage is the presence of 30 mg of the substance per serving (against the background of many supplements that include 15 or 50 mg of the main substance). The formula contains 0.3 mg of high-quality copper for minimal compensation and to curb the development of microelement deficiency against the background of increased zinc consumption.

Zinc Chelated 30 mg from Bluebonnet Nutrition

High-quality chelated zinc from a well-known brand. Excellent for any cycle, taking into account 30 mg of the substance per serving. The only drawback of the supplement is that there is no copper to balance the balance, so you should not consume the supplement in long courses.

Zinc 15 mg from Dr. Mercola

This is the choice for those who want to receive a supplement with maximum quality. It is also the best liquid form of zinc with 15 mg per serving. The only conditional disadvantage, like all Dr. supplements. Mercola, this is an extremely high cost (2-3 times higher than some additives). Therefore, it is recommended in cases where priority is given to maximum quality without taking into account the financial issue. In other cases, it is better to give preference to the brands NOW, Solaray and others.

Copper Bisglycinate by Thorne Research

The best copper supplement from one of the world’s most reputable brands. Includes bisglycinate, the highest quality, most bioavailable chelated form of the trace mineral with 2 mg per serving.

Copper 2 mg from Swanson

Also a super high quality source of copper from a full production brand in the USA. Each serving contains the recommended 2 mg of chelated compound. It is also the optimal supplement in terms of dosage ratio, number of servings per package and cost.