Does Dairy Affect Zinc?

May affect absorption or how you feel

The short answer

Calcium in dairy interferes with zinc absorption through competitive binding.

How to arrange timing

Separate zinc supplements from dairy by at least 2 hours.

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.