10 Best Trace Mineral Supplements (2024) for Energy, Immunity, and Overall Health

✓ Medically Reviewed and Fact-Checked by Dr. Jesse Ropat, PharmD, RPh, B.Sc.

Trace minerals like iron, zinc, copper, selenium, chromium, iodine, and others are the unsung heroes of optimal health. They are essential for maintaining optimal energy production, immune system function, and bone health.

However, we can’t produce these minerals and must consume them from dietary sources.

Unfortunately, due to poor diet habits, stressful modern life, and declining soil quality, it’s pretty common to lack adequate trace minerals. 

Supplementing with high-quality trace mineral supplements can help, alongside obtaining them from a balanced diet.

In this article, we’ll share our picks for the best trace mineral supplements in 2023.

Best Trace Mineral Supplements in 2024

Now that you understand more about these special minerals, here are the top trace mineral supplements on the market.

Whether you’re looking to boost your energy levels, strengthen your immune system, or improve your bone health, we’ve got you covered.

Best Trace Mineral Drops: Upgraded Formulas Trace Minerals

Best Trace Mineral Capsules: Seeking Health Trace Minerals Complex

Best Ionic Trace Minerals: ConcenTrace Trace Mineral Drops

Best Fulvic Acid Trace Minerals: Peak Performance Trace Minerals

Best Colloidal Trace Minerals: NOW Foods Colloidal Minerals

Best Nano Trace Minerals: Upgraded Formulas Trace Minerals

Best Trace Minerals with Magnesium: Nordic Naturals Multi-Minerals

*Note: We have affiliate links throughout this article, which means we receive a commission if you buy from any of our links. This supports our mission to bring complicated health and fitness info in an entertaining package. And it keeps us from putting up annoying things like banner ads. Those suck.

1) Upgraded Formulas Trace Minerals

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Upgraded Trace Minerals stands out because of its ultra-high quality and high bioavailability. You actually absorb these crucial trace minerals.

Convention mineral supplements don’t absorb well. In fact, most have a 4%-20% absorption rate. Upgraded Trace Minerals uses Stabilized Nano Mineral Technology to improve absorption.

Upgraded Formulas tested their product, and it’s 99% – 99.99% absorbable. Simply, this means they use smaller particles, so they get absorbed faster.

A 2 ml serving gives you 200 mg of trace minerals with 4 mg of fulvic acid in a convenient dropper. Every bottle comes with 60 servings.

In addition, it’s 100 % natural, organic, gluten-free, keto, and vegan-friendly. It has no fillers or artificial flavors.

It also comes with a 100-day money-back guarantee.

We also love that Upgraded gives back to charity and donates a portion of all money to Charity:Water. This organization provides clean and sustainable water to millions of people around the world.

Upgraded Formulas is a cGMP-certified, US-based company that tests all its products for pathogens and heavy metals using a third-party lab. 

For all of these reasons, Upgraded Trace Minerals is our clear #1 pick.

2) ConcenTrace Trace Mineral Drops

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This liquid trace mineral gold mine is a concentrated complex of 72+ ionic trace minerals. It offers an effortless way to get the trace minerals our bodies crave back into our diets in a bioavailable form.

ConcenTrace drops contain naturally occurring ionic trace minerals from Utah’s inland sea to keep your cells functioning optimally.

The bioavailable drops also include macro minerals like magnesium, chloride, sodium, and potassium, so you have all your bases covered. Sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and chloride are important for maintaining electrolyte balance in the body. They support the elaborate electrical system of the body and provide it with the minerals it needs to feel reenergized and healthy.

ConcenTrace contains no preservatives, flavors, or sweeteners. It’s also gluten-free, non-GMO, certified vegan, third-party tested, and made in a cGMP-certified facility. 

According to Trace Minerals, you can start with 10 drops per day for three days. After that, you can increase to the full recommended daily dosage of 40 drops.

3) Seeking Health Trace Minerals Complex

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Seeking Health Trace Minerals Complex has a unique blend of trace minerals. They chose 10 minerals for their blend and based it on common deficiencies. For example, even though it’s not a trace mineral, they included potassium because it’s a common mineral deficiency.

On the other hand, they left iron out of their complex because many people already get plenty of iron from dietary sources.

This blend includes:

• Iodine
• Zinc
• Boron
• Selenium
• Copper
• Manganese
• Chromium
• Molybdenum
• Potassium
• Vanadium

Your body needs all the trace elements to function well, so this formula covers all your bases.

This blend has no major allergens, has a 60-day satisfaction guarantee, and they donate 7% of their profits.

It’s non-GMO and suitable for vegans. It’s also an affordable product.

Seeking Health is third-party-tested and NSF-accredited.

4) Quinton Isotonic

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Quinton® makes liquid ionic mineral supplements that have thoroughly impressed me – but I don’t see them talked about enough in the supplement space.

Named after the biologist René Quinton, these mineral tonics come from pure seawater sourced from plankton-rich blooms rich in 78 minerals and trace elements.

The seawater is cold micro-filtered to remove unwanted pollutants and keep the solution pure. As an ionic solution, your cells can absorb the trace minerals quickly, bypassing the digestive system.

They have a few different tonics that support cellular and electrolyte balance.

Quinton Isotonic contains 29% cold micro-filtered seawater and 71% purified water. It’s a great wellness tonic for maintaining mineral levels. On the other hand, their Quinton Hypertonic is more concentrated and ideal for athletes and those going through intense illness or stress.

Each box comes with 30 10 ml glass ampules full of mineral-rich liquid.

Overall, the manufacturers suggest taking 1 ampule in the morning and evening on an empty stomach to maintain optimal cellular health.

Quinton also offers a 100% money-back guarantee.

5) Nordic Naturals Multi-Minerals

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Nordic Naturals is a top third-party purity-tested brand. Their Multi Minerals supplement provides a range of essential macro and trace minerals in highly bioavailable forms:

– Calcium

– Iron

– Iodine

– Magnesium

– Zinc

– Selenium

– Copper

– Manganese

– Chromium

– Molybdenum

– Potassium

– Boron

– Vanadium

Plus, the product is third-party tested, Igen non-GMO tested, and certified vegan-friendly.

Overall, Nordic Naturals Multi Minerals high-quality ingredients and certifications make it a reliable choice for those looking to supplement their mineral intake.

6) Life Extension Only Trace Minerals

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Life Extension Only Trace Minerals is a fantastic formula at an even better price.

Not only does this product have a high dose of some of the most important trace minerals like chromium, zinc, and copper, but they have also added vanadyl sulfate. This form of vanadium helps promote thyroid health, iron metabolism, and healthy glucose and blood pressure levels.

One capsule provides:

• 20 mg of zinc
• 2 mg of copper
• 2 mg of manganese
• 400 mcg of chromium
• 250 mcg of molybdenum
• 3 mg of boron
• 75 mg of vanadyl sulfate

If you’re looking to get started with a trace minerals supplement, this one won’t break the bank.

7) Peak Performance Trace Minerals Liquid Drops

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Peak Performance Trace Minerals is a third-party verified liquid mineral supplement that helps to replenish your cells.

Firstly, it contains 2 main minerals – magnesium and chloride – from seabed sources. Plus, Peak Performance trace mineral drops contain 455 mg of a fulvic acid trace mineral complex, which is basically bioavailable minerals taken from decomposing plants and organic matter in the soil. This provides 72 other plant-based trace minerals.

A bottle is 8 ounces, containing 96 servings. Plus, Peak Performance offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

8) Thorne Trace Minerals

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Thorne Research Trace Minerals is another chelated trace mineral formula from a fantastic brand. It provides zinc, selenium, manganese, chromium, and boron in an ideal ratio for optimal absorption.

You get a 3-month supply of high-quality trace minerals with each serving size of just 1 capsule.

Thorne complies with the Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) set by the FDA. Each product goes through four rounds of thorough testing to verify identity, potency, and purity.

9) NOW Foods Colloidal Minerals

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NOW Foods Colloidal Minerals is a highly absorbable, water-soluble mineral blend derived from prehistoric plant deposits from Utah. These naturally occurring minerals come from plants, fruits, and vegetables, making them easy for your cells to recognize and absorb.

The product contains trace amounts of naturally occurring essential minerals, including:

– Boron

– Calcium

– Chromium

– Copper

– Iron

– Magnesium

– Manganese

– Molybdenum

– Phosphorus

– Potassium

– Selenium

– Silver

– Sodium

– Sulfur

– Zinc

The liquid comes in a natural raspberry flavor that’s easy to mix with water or juice. While it’s naturally flavored, the liquid does contain some fructose (fruit sugar) that may not suit some users.

NOW Foods is a cGMP-certified brand with decades of experience making health supplements.

10) Dr. Berg Trace Minerals Enhanced

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Dr. Berg is a company founded by Dr. Eric Berg in the USA.

Their unique proprietary formula contains zinc, selenium, iodine, copper, and molybdenum, all important for maintaining a well-oiled machine.

It’s produced in a cGMP-certified facility, so you know you’re getting what you pay for.

A bottle contains 60 capsules, lasting 2 months. Backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, it’s a great option at a reasonable price.

How We Rank the Best Trace Mineral Supplements

We take our responsibility to provide the most accurate and reliable information seriously. When ranking the best supplements, we rely on a comprehensive and rigorous process.

Dosage

We understand the importance of proper dosage for supplements to be effective, safe, and well-tolerated by the body. We select products that fall within the optimal ranges.

Strict Testing Standards

Safety and purity are non-negotiable for any supplement we recommend. We evaluated each product for third-party testing and quality assurance standards to ensure they meet the highest standards.

Customer Reviews

We rely on feedback from real customers who have used these products. This helps us understand the effectiveness and ensure that our recommendations are practical and user-friendly.

Value

We recognize that investing in dietary supplements to support your health can be a significant expense. Therefore, we selected products that provide excellent value for money while maintaining high-quality ingredients and formulations.

What Are Trace Minerals?

Trace minerals are essential nutrients required in small amounts to maintain good health. Because our bodies require only small amounts of these minerals, they are called “trace” minerals.

Trace minerals are involved in many physiological processes in the body, and their deficiency can lead to various health problems.

Here’s a simple breakdown of just a few trace minerals:

• Iron: Think of it as the fuel truck for your body, carrying oxygen everywhere it needs to go.
• Zinc: Your immune system’s best friend, always ready to jump into action.
• Selenium: The bodyguard for your cells, keeping them safe from damage.
• Iodine: The boss of your metabolism, making sure everything runs smoothly.

And that’s just scratching the surface.

While some minerals are more commonly deficient than others, it is important to maintain adequate levels of all trace minerals to support optimal health.

Supplementation may be necessary to achieve this goal, particularly in individuals who follow a restrictive diet or have digestive issues that may impair the absorption of these nutrients.

Health Benefits of Trace Minerals

Supports Immune System Function

Trace minerals play essential roles in maintaining a healthy immune system. 

Zinc, for instance, is necessary for the proper functioning of numerous immune cells, including T cells, natural killer cells, and antibodies (1). Zinc deficiency can weaken immune function and increase infection risk, especially in the elderly and children (2). 

Selenium is another mineral that is critical for immune function. It acts as an antioxidant and supports the activity of various immune cells, including lymphocytes and macrophages (3).

Selenium supplementation may enhance the immune response to infections and reduce inflammation (4).

Promotes Bone Health

While calcium and magnesium are the most abundant macro minerals for bone growth and maintenance (magnesium is so important, it’s worth looking into a magnesium supplement separately), several trace minerals are essential for strong bones. 

Zinc is necessary for bone formation and improving bone density in postmenopausal women (5). Copper is also essential for bone health, as it helps to maintain collagen, a critical component of bone tissue (6).

Ensuring adequate intake of trace minerals can help prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of fractures.

Supports Energy Production

Trace minerals are essential to produce energy in the body. 

Iron is necessary to produce hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen to cells for energy production. Other trace minerals, like chromium and manganese, also play important roles in glucose metabolism, which is necessary for energy production (7).

Act as Antioxidants

Some trace minerals, like selenium and copper, have potent antioxidant effects, protecting against oxidative damage from free radicals. These unstable molecules can harm cells and lead to chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease (8).

By neutralizing free radicals, trace minerals may protect against disease and promote overall health. Selenium, in particular, is an important antioxidant that plays a role in preventing oxidative damage to cells and tissues (9). Studies have shown that selenium may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, such as prostate cancer (10).

FAQs

What are trace minerals?

Think of trace minerals as your body’s tiny superheroes. Unlike their big brothers, the macro-minerals, these micro-minerals pack a punch in tiny quantities.

Some essential trace minerals and their functions include:

• Chromium: Helps to carbohydrates, proteins, and fats for energy.
• Cobalt: Essential for making Vitamin B12.
• Copper: Contributes to connective tissues and iron metabolism.
• Fluoride: Protects against demineralization of teeth and bones.
• Iodine: A crucial component of thyroid hormones.
• Iron: Vital for forming hemoglobin in red blood cells.
• Manganese: Involved in metabolism processes.
• Molybdenum: Necessary for activating specific enzymes.
• Selenium: Plays a role in DNA production and thyroid hormone metabolism.
• Zinc: Enhances immune functions and protein synthesis.

Why are trace minerals important?

Trace minerals play a pivotal role in overall health. They support immunity, joint health, energy levels, and much more. Their importance extends to the production of hormones and enzymes and controlling metabolism.

In essence, these tiny minerals have a big impact on our well-being.

What are the most important trace minerals for overall health?

Let’s get something straight, ALL trace minerals are essential for wellness. However, some are more in demand than others, like zinc, selenium, copper, chromium, and iodine. 

Ensuring a balanced intake of these minerals is crucial for overall well-being.

What is the recommended dose of trace minerals?

The recommended daily dose varies depending on the specific trace mineral. For example, the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for zinc is 11 mg for men and 8 mg for women.

In general, your body only needs small amounts of each trace mineral to maintain good health.

Consult the supplement label and your healthcare provider for personalized dosage recommendations.

How to choose the best trace mineral supplement?

Choosing the right supplement requires careful consideration. Look for safety certifications like NSF and cGMP, third-party testing, and consider factors like price, type of nutrients, and dietary preferences such as vegan-friendly options. Your health goals and individual needs should guide your choice.

Our top choice for a trace mineral supplement is Upgraded Formulas Trace Minerals.

Can trace minerals be harmful?

While essential, trace minerals can become toxic if consumed in excess. It’s a delicate balance. Consulting with a healthcare provider before supplementation is crucial. They can assess your specific needs and recommend the right approach.

Can I get enough trace minerals from my diet?

It is possible to get enough trace minerals from a well-balanced diet rich in nutrient-dense foods. However, certain populations may be at higher risk for a deficiency, such as those with restrictive diets or medical conditions that affect nutrient absorption.

How do I know if I need trace minerals?

Symptoms of trace mineral deficiencies can vary but often include fatigue, weak immunity, poor focus, and muscle cramps.

More severe deficiencies can lead to chronic conditions like osteoporosis and anemia.

Can I test my trace mineral levels?

Testing mineral levels can be tricky and unreliable. The most common methods include blood tests, urine tests, and hair tissue mineral analysis (HTMA).

Blood and urine tests may provide a snapshot of your current mineral status.

HTMA, on the other hand, may provide a more comprehensive view of mineral levels over the last few months. It involves analyzing a small sample of hair close to the scalp. However, it’s still a controversial testing method, and most doctors think it’s unreliable.

Consult your doctor for the most appropriate testing method for your situation. Hopefully, in the future, more reliable trace mineral tests will be available.

Are there vegan-friendly trace mineral supplements?

Yes, there are plant-based trace mineral supplements available. Look for labels that specifically mention “vegan-friendly” or consult with the manufacturer to ensure the product meets your dietary requirements.

What are the side effects of trace minerals?

Some individuals may experience side effects like a metallic taste or digestive issues when taking trace mineral supplements. It’s essential to follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare provider to minimize potential side effects.

Can I take trace minerals every day?

Taking a mineral supplement daily is safe and beneficial for most people, especially if your diet lacks these essential nutrients.

However, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and consult with a healthcare provider to avoid toxicity. Balancing your intake through diet and supplements ensures you receive the benefits without the risk of toxicity.

Should I take minerals morning or night?

The timing for taking trace minerals can depend on the specific mineral and your body’s needs. However, in general, timing isn’t super important as long as you take them when it is convenient for you!

How long does it take for minerals to start working?

Trace minerals get to work in your body right away. However, the time it takes for you to notice the minerals working can vary. Factors like the severity of the deficiency, the form of the mineral, and individual metabolism all affect how quickly you see results.

What are fulvic acid minerals?

Fulvic acid minerals are plant-derived minerals. Fulvic acid is one of the main components of rich, fertile soil resulting from the decomposition of plants.

Fulvic acid can pass through cell membranes with ease. So, these trace minerals are often more bioavailable and in harmony with the body’s natural processes.

What are colloidal trace minerals?

Colloidal minerals are minerals suspended in a liquid solution, allowing for enhanced absorption by the body.

Research has shown that colloidal minerals may be more bioavailable, ensuring your body can efficiently use these essential nutrients.

What are the differences between trace minerals and electrolytes?

Trace minerals and electrolytes differ in concentration and function. Trace minerals like zinc, selenium, and copper are needed in smaller amounts, while you need electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and calcium in larger quantities.

Electrolytes primarily regulate fluid balance and nerve function, whereas trace minerals play roles in various physiological processes, including enzyme function and immune support.

However, trace minerals and electrolytes are often found together in supplements.

What’s the difference between a trace minerals supplement and a multivitamin?

Often high-quality multivitamins will include trace minerals. However, they put a focus on vitamins, as well as macro minerals like magnesium, potassium, and calcium. Each helps to cover your nutritional bases in different ways.

Do I need a specific ratio of trace minerals?

The optimal ratio of trace minerals varies based on individual needs and health status. However, being “trace” minerals, you only need small amounts.

Experts generally recommend focusing on consuming a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods to ensure adequate intake of all essential minerals.

If someone needs to take a supplement, choose one from our list that provides safe levels of each mineral.

What foods are high in trace minerals?

Many foods contain trace minerals, and incorporating nutrient-dense foods into your diet can help ensure adequate intake.

Here are some examples of foods that are high in certain minerals:

Iron: red meat, poultry, seafood, beans, lentils, spinach, and fortified cereals.

Zinc: oysters, beef, pork, chicken, beans, nuts, and whole grains.

Selenium: Brazil nuts, seafood, poultry, beef, and fortified cereals.

Copper: shellfish, liver, dark leafy greens, beans, nuts, and whole grains.

Other trace minerals, such as chromium, manganese, and molybdenum, can also be found in whole grains, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and legumes. It’s important to consume a balance of nutrient-dense foods to ensure adequate intake of all essential minerals.

What causes trace mineral imbalances?

Mineral imbalances can be caused by a poor diet lacking in essential minerals. Other factors include malabsorption issues, certain medications, and chronic medical conditions like kidney disease. 

Environmental factors like exposure to heavy metals can also disrupt the mineral balance. Stress and hormonal changes can also impact mineral levels in the body.

What about heavy metals?

Heavy metals like lead and mercury? Yeah, they’re trace minerals, but not the kind you want in your supplement regimen.

While they occur naturally in the environment, exposure to contaminated food, water, or supplements can lead to toxicity. Research emphasizes the importance of quality control and third-party testing in supplements to ensure they are safe and meet regulatory standards.

Always check for third-party testing to avoid these harmful contaminants.

What do we know about trace mineral research?

The research is complex and multifaceted, encompassing everything from essential nutrients to potentially harmful heavy metals. Recent research has delved into various aspects of trace minerals, including the benefits of ionic minerals and the advantages of plant-derived varieties.

Final thoughts

As trace mineral research advances, it continues to unravel the intricacies of these vital nutrients. From understanding the risks associated with heavy metals to exploring the benefits of ionic magnesium and plant-derived minerals, science is paving the way for informed choices in supplementation and nutrition.