Clinical research shows that taking the mineral zinc, along with digestive enzymes that assist in absorption of the zinc, makes Botox last about 30% longer. Botox injections are fantastic at smoothing lines and wrinkles on the face and neck and are also used to diminish migraine severity/frequency and temporarily stop excessive sweating. The positive effects of Botox generally last about 3-4 months depending on the individual's lifestyle and biochemical composition. Taking oral zinc and digestive enzymes a few days before and after a Botox treatment, though, has been shown to make the Botox work better and last longer.
Not many physicians are aware that Botox belongs to a family of enzymes called zinc metalloproteinases. The enzymes in this family actually require zinc to act as a catalyst so the Botox can be effective. We do have zinc in our bodies, but we may not have enough of this mineral to support the required mechanisms necessary for Botox to work well. There is even experimentation that shows that when Botox is treated with an agent that removes or chelates zinc from the Botox, it will not be effective AT ALL.
Digestive enzymes called proteases help with the absorption of the zinc, so taking them at the same time as you take the zinc is important. Even though our bodies make digestive enzymes to help break down the food we eat, we are constantly under stress, may eat a diet poor in nutrients, and have exposure to more toxins than ever before. This means our ability to make adequate enzymes takes a huge hit. That is why supplementing our bodies with digestive enzymes helps us absorb nutrients better and also decreases inflammation.
So, before you schedule your next Botox appointment, make sure you swing by the health food store and pick up some zinc and a bottle of digestive enzymes so you can be prepared to get the most out of your Botox treatment. I've always wondered why Botox does not last more than 6-8 weeks on my body. I'm sure the fact that I do hot yoga 5 times a week plays a big role in speeding up my metabolism making me burn through Botox more quickly. But, maybe my body just doesn't have adequate amounts of naturally occurring zinc to support the effectiveness and duration of my Botox. I am definitely going to start a "zinc and digestive enzyme regimen" before my next Botox treatment.