Comparing the effects of two types of zinc supplements on fatty acid metabolism

A Comparison of the Metabolic Effects of Zinc-Amino Acid (ZnAA) Versus Zinc Gluconate Given in a Fasted State

Not applicable Interventional University of California, Berkeley · NCT06348056

This study tests whether taking zinc with food in the form of zinc amino acid helps the body process fatty acids better than taking zinc gluconate.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 50 Years
SexMale
SponsorUniversity of California, Berkeley Academic / other
Locations1 site (Berkeley, California)
Trial IDNCT06348056 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates how different forms of zinc supplementation, specifically zinc amino acid and zinc gluconate, affect the body's metabolism of fatty acids. Participants will consume either form of zinc for 13 days while keeping a log of their breakfast intake. Blood samples will be collected before and after each supplementation period to assess metabolic changes. The study aims to determine if zinc taken with food, particularly in an amino acid complex, enhances the desaturation of omega-6 fatty acids more effectively than zinc gluconate.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy men aged 18 to 50 with a body mass index between 18 and 30 kg/m2.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of heart disease, inflammatory disorders, or those currently taking supplements may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into optimizing zinc supplementation for better metabolic health and fatty acid balance.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific comparison of zinc amino acid versus zinc gluconate is novel, previous studies have shown that zinc supplementation can influence metabolic processes.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Apparently healthy men (i.e., have no current health issues requiring medications or a specific diet)
* 18 to 50 years of age
* Body mass index between 18 and 30 kg/m2
* Willing to take zinc supplements provided by the study for a total of four weeks

Exclusion Criteria:

* History of heart disease, any inflammatory disorder including inflammatory bowel syndrome or arthritis, or any cancer treatment, or previously diagnosed with HIV
* Smoking or alcohol abuse, use of illicit drugs
* Any contraindication to venipuncture such as bleeding disorders or use of blood thinners
* Those taking vitamins or supplements including minerals and omega oils, who cannot agree to stop taking the supplements two weeks prior to the study and for the duration of the study

Where this trial is running

Berkeley, California

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Response of Fatty Acid Desaturation to Zinc Intake
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.