Does Zinc Picolinate interact with Magnesium Glycinate?

Written to our editorial standards · reviewed against published research· Updated 2 Jun 2026
Space them apart· emerging evidence

Best taken a little apart at high doses.

Zinc and magnesium can compete a little for absorption when taken together in large amounts, which is why some advice spaces them, though the popular ZMA formula deliberately combines them at balanced doses and is widely used without problems.

What to do

Balanced doses together (as in ZMA) are fine and convenient in the evening. If you take large therapeutic doses of each, space them out, take zinc with food to avoid nausea, and keep zinc under about 40 mg a day long-term.

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Zinc Picolinate
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Magnesium Glycinate
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Common questions

Can I take Zinc Picolinate and Magnesium Glycinate together?
Space them apart. Balanced doses together (as in ZMA) are fine and convenient in the evening. If you take large therapeutic doses of each, space them out, take zinc with food to avoid nausea, and keep zinc under about 40 mg a day long-term.
Why do Zinc Picolinate and Magnesium Glycinate interact?
Zinc and magnesium can compete a little for absorption when taken together in large amounts, which is why some advice spaces them, though the popular ZMA formula deliberately combines them at balanced doses and is widely used without problems.

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Educational use only, not medical advice. Interaction risk depends on dose, your health, and any medications. Always consult a qualified clinician, especially if you take prescription drugs or are pregnant or nursing.