Zinc - Too Much Is Too Much

Dr. Thoma here to talk to you about zinc.

Lately, I'm having a lot of patients that are having neuropathies and stomach issues because they're getting too much zinc.  The upper limits of zinc should be about 40 milligrams, maximum 80 milligrams, in special situations.  

I see a lot of individuals taking multiple zinc supplements along with zinc lozenges, and it's causing quite a bit of distress. They're coming in with feet they can't feel, tingling in the hands, and they don't realize they're getting as much zinc as they are.  

Primarily, this is because they are not adding up what they're getting in one segment and another, or they're popping zinc lozenges as candy, all day long, thinking that they're protecting themselves from viruses, and yet they're causing themselves a lot more problems.

Zinc also takes the place of copper in our body and causes some hemoglobin issues, which makes us tired and sluggish.

So, if you're getting zinc from multiple sources in your diet and in your supplementation, make sure to add up the dosages. If you're getting over 40 milligrams, you need to cut it back. The average daily dosage is usually five to seven for men and women.

Take a look at your zinc, make sure it's not causing you problems.