Myths vs facts: Zink and Stress

Zinc is often marketed as an 'anti-stress mineral,' but the evidence is nuanced. **Fact:** Zinc is essential for immune function and neurotransmitter regulation (e.g., GABA). Deficiency can increase stress vulnerability. **Myth:** High-dose zinc relieves stress. Studies show that zinc supplementation improves mood only in deficient individuals; in replete individuals, extra zinc provides no measurable stress benefit. The tolerable upper intake level (UL) is 25 mg/day (EFSA). Overdose causes nausea, copper deficiency, and immune impairment. Blood zinc tests are limited because the body tightly regulates levels. MyBody-X does not offer a direct zinc test; its DNA analysis may indicate genetic variants affecting zinc metabolism. **Bottom line:** Rule out deficiency before supplementing; avoid megadosing for stress.