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Zinc

More and more people are thinking zinc when they have the sneezing, coughing, sore throat, and nasal congestion that accompany a common cold. In a Cleveland Clinic Foundation study, a group of people who had cold symptoms for less than 24 hours were given a zinc lozenge to dissolve in their mouths every two hours (an average of six lozenges a day). The study group reported their cold symptoms abated more rapidly than the people who took placebo lozenges (in 4.4 days compared to 7.6 days).

“Zinc may inhibit the reproduction of viruses and promote the production of the virus-fighter interferon,” according to researcher Sherif B. Mossad M.D. in The Annuals of Internal Medicine.

Zinc Content in Foods is Lower

It is not easy for people to obtain the minimum U.S. RDA requirement of zinc unless they focus on foods high in zinc (oysters, red meats, whole grains, and beans). Most agricultural soils are not rich in zinc, and since zinc is water soluble, canning or cooking foods in water causes zinc loss. Many doctors are recommending zinc supplementation to maintain the daily requirements of this important mineral.

Benefits of Zinc

Zinc has many functions and uses, among them it has been shown to support the immune system. Zinc is thought to increase T-lymphocyte production and enhance other white blood cell functions according to the Cleveland Foundation study. Zinc therapy may be helpful in reducing the incidence and severity of colds.

Sources:
Staying Healthy With Nutrition, Elson M. Haas, M.D. Celestial Arts Publishing 1992
Journal of the American Medical Association (1996 vol. 275)

 
* This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Disclaimer: The information on this site is not intended for the diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for the prescription of any medication or other treatment. You should consult with a health care professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have and/or suspect you might have a health problem, are pregnant and/or nursing.