How Much Zinc is Needed to Lower Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure occurs when the force of the blood against artery walls becomes more than normal. Zinc is a trace mineral in your body that you get mainly through foods such as oysters and red meat. Zinc promotes healing, proper immune function, and demonstrates antioxidant properties. Zinc plays a critical role in eliminating free radicals.

Misconceptions

• While zinc is one of your body's most important minerals, there is no direct evidence that suggests zinc helps to lower your blood pressure.

Warning

• If you're currently taking medication for high blood pressure, the use of zinc is not recommended

Features

• You can take zinc in tablet form. Since your body doesn't need a lot of zinc it's best for adults to take between 8 and 11 mg daily. You should consult with your doctor before taking zinc or any other supplements.

Warning

• High zinc dosage can lead to headaches, elevated cholesterol, dizziness, and nausea.

Expert Insight

• On their web site, the University of Maryland Medical Center indicates "research has shown that less than 40 mg a day is a safe amount to take over time, but researchers are not sure what happens if more is taken over a long period."