Thorne Zinc Picolinate 25mg (formerly Double Strength Zinc Picolinate) is an extremely well absorbed form of Zinc. Zinc is essential for growth, immune system function, reproductive health, testosterone metabolism, as a cofactor for the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase, and for many other functions in the body. Zinc is involved in the functioning of over 200 enzymes and plays a key role in many cell functions. Zinc deficiency has been associated with adverse impacts on a number of structures and functions of the body. Individuals susceptible to zinc deficiency include the elderly, the immuno-compromised, those on parenteral nutrition, athletes who lose zinc in sweat during intense exercise, and burn victims. (although it can be fairly common today in adults as well as children, consider those with impaired digestion or gut health issues) Adequate Zinc levels are needed to support the body's normal production of testosterone, a hormone essential for promoting lean muscle mass. Clinical studies demonstrate zinc supplementation can increase general wellness, and that it has a beneficial impact on connective tissue as well as reproductive, immune, and eye health. Because of zinc's essential role in human nutrition and metabolism, there is much interest in the absorption of zinc from both dietary intake and dietary supplements. While dietary zinc intake is effective in most situations, not all zinc dietary supplements have equal bioavailability. Picolinic acid is a natural mineral chelator produced in the body. It is produced from the amino acid tryptophan in the liver and kidneys and is transported to the pancreas. During digestion, it is secreted from the pancreas into the small intestine, where it binds to minerals to facilitate their absorption. Zinc Picolinate is absorbed to a higher degree than are other zinc supplements.