L-Arginine and Zinc
Zinc is a cofactor for nitric oxide synthase, the enzyme that converts arginine to NO.
L-Arginine
The nitric oxide precursor for blood flow and cardiovascular health.
Zinc
An immune and hormone workhorse trace mineral.
Designed to work as a pair
One is required for the other to do its job, so they belong together in a stack.
How to take them
L-Arginine
- Dose
- 3–6 g per day for cardiovascular/ED benefit; 6–10 g pre-workout for performance
- Timing
- 30–60 minutes before exercise for performance; spread throughout the day for cardiovascular goals
Zinc
- Dose
- 8–15 mg per day for maintenance; higher short-term for colds
- Timing
- With food to avoid nausea
Buying L-Arginine and Zinc?
Choose third-party-tested brands in the forms we recommend on each supplement's page.
Some links below are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes our ratings or evidence grades.
Frequently asked
Can you take L-Arginine and Zinc together?
Yes, they are commonly taken together. Zinc is a cofactor for nitric oxide synthase, the enzyme that converts arginine to NO.
What's the best time to take L-Arginine and Zinc?
Around the same time works well. L-Arginine: 30–60 minutes before exercise for performance; spread throughout the day for cardiovascular goals. Zinc: With food to avoid nausea.
How do L-Arginine and Zinc interact?
Cofactor: Required for the other to do its job. Zinc is a cofactor for nitric oxide synthase, the enzyme that converts arginine to NO.
Related pairings
L-Arginine + L-Citrulline
L-Citrulline converts to arginine in the kidneys far more efficiently than oral arginine; the two share the same nitric oxide pathway.
L-Arginine + Magnesium
Magnesium supports vascular smooth muscle relaxation alongside nitric oxide from arginine.
L-Arginine + Vitamin C
Vitamin C protects nitric oxide from oxidative breakdown, extending the vasodilatory effect of arginine.
Copper + Zinc
Long-term high-dose zinc depletes copper; pairing them (≈1 mg copper per 10–15 mg zinc) keeps the balance healthy.