Strengthener Plus™ is a special zinc formulation with important cofactor nutrients, including MSM sulfur, copper, B6, and bamboo extract (providing silica). The forms of zinc we use, picolinate and citrate, are the primary forms utilized by the GI tract for easy absorption, and are superior to zinc oxide or zinc gluconate. Zinc is an important mineral for immune health. Zinc is needed for the integrity and strength of various body structures, such as bones and nails (white spots on the nails may reflect a lack of zinc).* Mild acne may respond to zinc supplementation.*

Hair, skin, nails:  MSM sulfur is a helpful mineral for hair strength and skin. It works synergistically with zinc in these areas. In fact, zinc is required for MSM sulfur to work properly in the formation of healthy body structures. Strengthener Plus also contains copper and silica, which help to strengthen the collagen and bone structure. Silica is also the main component of the hair shaft. These nutrients can help to keep hair from falling out and strengthen skin.*

Stress, immune support:  Zinc, like MSM Sulfur, is active in hundreds of enzymes in human metabolism. Zinc is easily lost in sweat (during exercise) and is used in greater amounts under stress. Zinc is required for optimal function of the immune system. Zinc and sulfur work together to form the three-dimensional structure of antibodies, important immune system troops.*

Alcohol, toxins:  Zinc has also been shown to help reduce damage from alcohol consumption. It may be wise to supplement zinc if consuming any alcohol when trying to get pregnant.* Zinc, sulfur, and copper have been shown to help the body clear toxins, including heavy metals.*

Sex drive:  Sex drive in men or women is directly related to low levels of testosterone. Zinc supplementation has been shown to increase testosterone production and therefore improve sex drive. Men generally need 50-75mg of zinc per day, women need 25 - 50mg.*

Thyroid support:  Zinc is a co-factor mineral that needs to be adequate for thyroid hormone to perform at an optimal pace. A lack of zinc is known to reduce the activity of TRH (thyroid releasing hormone in the hypothalamus), in turn tending to depress thyroid hormone levels. Zinc participates in the conversion of T4 to T3, and zinc is needed to bind active thyroid hormone to the DNA of cells. Zinc is needed for immunity, sex drive, and maintaining leptin status while on a diet. It is lost in sweat and by stress. Our Strengthener Plus formula contains zinc in its most biologically active forms.* 

Copper and zinc balance: Supplementing with zinc over extended periods of time can develop a copper deficiency. This is another important reason that copper, in the high quality form copper glycinate, is included in this formula.