New research suggests that inadequate levels of a nutrient commonly found in red meat may elevate the risk of two serious heart conditions. The study, spearheaded by Dr. Kemmoy Lattibeaudiere from the University of Technology, Jamaica, involved collaboration among experts from Jamaica, France, and the United Kingdom.

The study focused on zinc, an essential mineral known for its role in combating stress and inflammation in the body. Researchers examined a range of sources, including laboratory experiments, animal studies, and observational research in humans, to assess zinc’s impact.

According to the team, zinc supplements might be beneficial in reducing heart inflammation for individuals who are deficient in this nutrient.

Published in the journal Metallomics in 2026, the review proposes that zinc deficiency may be a “potentially significant yet modifiable” risk factor for inflammatory heart conditions such as myocarditis and pericarditis.

While myocarditis refers to inflammation affecting the heart muscle, pericarditis involves inflammation of the heart’s outer lining.

Pericarditis is inflammation of the heart’s outer lining, while myocarditis affects the heart muscle itself. 

Both are often caused by viral infections and can lead to chest pain, fever, and fatigue.

Zinc plays a vital role in more than 300 enzymes, helping the immune system, supporting protein and DNA production and regulating cell division. It also controls inflammation and protects heart cells from damage.

Zinc plays a vital role in more than 300 enzymes in the body and is essential for immune function, protein production, DNA creation and cell division

When zinc levels are low, these protective mechanisms may be weakened, potentially worsening inflammation — although most evidence comes from lab and animal studies rather than human trials, the authors stress.

The review also explored a process called the ‘Redox Zinc Switch,’ where zinc is released inside cells during stress to help control the body’s inflammatory response.

Lab and animal studies suggest zinc may influence heart damage caused by blocked or restored blood flow.

Measuring zinc directly in the human heart is difficult and blood levels do not always reflect what is happening inside heart cells.

Because the body cannot make zinc, it must be obtained from food. 

Rich sources include oysters, red meat, poultry, fortified cereals, beans, nuts, and dairy products. The NHS recommends seven mg per day for women and 9.5 mg for men.

Signs of zinc deficiency can include a reduced sense of smell and taste, mouth sores, deformed nails, hair loss, skin problems, and weaker immunity. 

Zinc supplements are available over the counter in tablets, capsules, and liquids. While generally well-tolerated, excessive long-term intake can lead to copper deficiency. Taking zinc on an empty stomach maximises absorption, but if it causes nausea, it is recommended to take it with a meal.

Zinc is often paired with vitamin C and magnesium in supplements targeting immune function, metabolic health, and muscle recovery. However, zinc can interfere with the absorption of other minerals, such as iron and calcium, so they should be taken at different times.

While the review suggests supplementation could be an accessible way to support heart health, experts emphasise that clinical evidence in people is still limited.