Does Alcohol Affect Zinc?

Amount or timing may matter

The short answer

Alcohol increases urinary zinc excretion and impairs intestinal zinc absorption. Chronic alcohol use is a major cause of zinc deficiency.

How to arrange timing

Take zinc supplements at least 4 hours apart from alcohol.

Reference

Reference noted for this food and supplement combination: NIH ODS 2024

Important context

The effect can also change with food amount, supplement dose, product formulation, health conditions, and medication use. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a chronic condition.