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What Should Be Taken with Zinc? Benefits of Zinc with Vitamin C, Vitamin D and Selenium

A chalkboard with “Zn” written on it surrounded by zinc-rich foods including chicken, liver and eggs

Key Takeaway

  • When combined, zinc works synergistically to enhance the individual effects of vitamin C, vitamin D and selenium.3,4

 

From supporting a healthy immune system to growing cells, there are many benefits of zinc.1 But did you know that zinc has a synergistic relationship with other key vitamins and nutrients? Learn about the benefits of zinc with vitamin C, vitamin D and selenium to get the full picture of what zinc should be taken with.

 

Benefits of Zinc

 

Before exploring how zinc works in relation to these other vitamins and nutrients, let’s dig into zinc’s standalone benefits. Zinc is an essential trace mineral with a significant role in several biological processes.2

What Does Zinc Do?

Zinc plays an important role in the body. It does all of the following:
 

  • Supports the growth and function of immune cells1
  • Supports immune cell activity that combats inflammation from a wound1
  • Supports a healthy immune system1
  • Helps defend against sunburn1

 

Why Are There Synergistic Effects Between Zinc and Other Vitamins and Nutrients?

 

Zinc supports many of the same bodily functions as vitamin C, vitamin D and selenium.3,4 When combined, zinc and these vitamins and nutrients can work synergistically, as a team, to enhance their individual effects.3,4 Each vitamin or nutrient contributes uniquely to supporting immune function, cellular health and/or metabolism—but each of their benefits may be amplified when taken together with zinc.3,4

 

Benefits of Zinc and Vitamin C Together


On its own, vitamin C is known to support many bodily functions.2,3 Vitamin C helps support immune function, regulate the immune system and support healthy respiration.2,3

So, what happens if you take zinc and vitamin C together? Well, the sum is larger than the parts. In addition to the individual benefits already listed, zinc and vitamin C together provide additional benefits:
 

  • Help support healthy tissues3
  • Help support immune function3

 

Benefits of Vitamin D and Zinc Together


Vitamin D has a powerful role in supporting the immune system and other systems within the body.2 It is also necessary for the mineralization of bones.5

What happens when you take zinc along with vitamin D?
 

  • Zinc enhances vitamin D’s effectiveness.5
  • At the same time, vitamin D helps influence zinc’s homeostasis (or steady state in the body).5


Sounds like a perfect pair!


Benefits of Selenium and Zinc Together


Selenium is an essential micronutrient that plays a role in our metabolism and is one of several components of antioxidant defense.2,4 Selenium affects insulin signals and helps modulate lipid and fat metabolism.4


When taken together, zinc and selenium may support improvements in:
 

  • Resting metabolic rate4
  • Body composition4
  • Cardiorespiratory fitness4
  • Functional performance measures such as mobility4

 

Put Zinc Synergy to Work for You

If you’re looking for an easy way to take zinc with complementary nutrients like vitamin C and vitamin D, Emergen-C offers several options that fit the bill.

 

  • Emergen-C Immune+®: This blend includes high-potency vitamin C (1,000 mg), zinc and vitamin D to support your immune system.* It's available in powder packets and gummies for flexible, on-the-go support.
  • Emergen-C Super Orange Original Immune Support* Formula: In addition to vitamin C, each packet contains zinc and a mix of B vitamins to support energy metabolism.* It’s a practical choice if you want to combine antioxidants with everyday wellness nutrients.
  • Emergen-C Everyday Immune Support Gummies: These chewable gummies offer a tasty way to supplement with vitamin C, vitamin D and zinc—no water needed.

 

These products offer a convenient way to pair zinc with supportive nutrients like vitamin C and vitamin D. Be sure to check the label for exact amounts and consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement routine.

 

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Source Citations:

1. Zinc. Harvard School of Public Health. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/zinc/. Accessed 7/11/25.

2. Immune-boosting role of vitamins D, C, E, zinc, selenium and omega-3 fatty acids: Could they help against COVID-19? Shakoor H, Feehan J, Al Dhaheri AS, et al.  Maturitas. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7415215/. Accessed 7/11/25.

3. Vitamins C, D and Zinc: Synergistic Roles in Immune Function and Infections. Maggini S, Maldonado P, Cardim P, Fernandez Newball C, Sota Latino ER. Vitamins & Minerals. https://www.hilarispublisher.com/open-access/vitamins-c-d-and-zinc-synergistic-roles-in-immune-function-and-infections-2376-1318-1000167.pdf. Accessed 7/11/25.

4. The Effects of Zinc and Selenium Co-Supplementation on Resting Metabolic Rate, Thyroid Function, Physical Fitness, and Functional Capacity in Overweight and Obese People under a Hypocaloric Diet: A Randomized, Double-Blind, and Placebo-Controlled Trial. Zavros A, Andreou E, Aphamis G, Bogdanis GC, Sakkas GK, Roupa Z, Giannaki CD. Nutrients. https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/14/3133. Accessed 7/11/25.

5. Zinc and its role in vitamin D function. Amos A, Razzaque MS. Current Research in Physiology. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.crphys.2022.06.004. Accessed 7/11/25.

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