A recent review of data obtained from 15 trials has indicated that zinc supplements may be effective in reducing the duration and severity of a common cold infection. Zinc supplements have long been used as a remedy for the common cold. Even though zinc is a popular treatment for the common cold, there has been some debate regarding its effectiveness.


This review only serves to strengthen the effectiveness of zinc as a treatment for cold. It was also stated that a general recommendation was still not possible since there was not much information about the dosage, formulation and duration of the treatment. The researchers found that individuals who had taken zinc in the forms of tablets, syrup or lozenges within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms displayed a reduction in severity and length of the illness.


The individuals also reported that the cold had cleared up a week after the onset. The analysis also found that children who had been taking zinc lozenges or syrups for a period of five months or more suffered from fewer colds. The review only took into account the effects of zinc on healthy individuals.

Zinc is an essential mineral that is required by the body for proper functioning. It is present in small amounts in the body cells and plays a role in 300 chemical interactions which stimulate the functioning of various enzymes. Zinc assists in growth and development and is especially important during childhood, adolescence and pregnancy. It also plays a valuable role in DNA synthesis and helps in strengthening the immune system. The use of zinc in the form of dietary supplements and topical applications has been continuing for decades. Zinc is responsible for encouraging anti-vital activity within the body. It stimulates the functioning of more than 100 enzymes which play important roles in bodily functions such as metabolism, temperature regulation and immunity. Zinc is also an important antioxidant which assists in wound healing. Animal sources contain the highest amounts of zinc. Foods that are rich in zinc include poultry, red meat, certain nuts, dried beans and fortified cereals. Other than these, there are few foods which contain more than 10 percent of the daily requirement of zinc in each serving.

The health benefits of zinc are numerous and inadequate intake of this mineral can lead to several health problems. Some of the symptoms of zinc deficiencies include low blood pressure, appetite loss, weight loss, problems in growth, bone problems, poor digestion and metabolism, depression and lowered immunity. As we have already seen, zinc plays an important role in the treatment of the common cold. In addition, zinc is also effective in preventing canker sores. The mineral is also used by the body in skin repair and research indicates that intake of zinc supplements helps in the healing of skin diseases such as psoriasis, eczema and acne. Zinc is also beneficial for eye health since it plays an essential role in the functioning of the macula and retina. It has been found that zinc enhances the effects of vitamin A, which is extremely important for good eye health. Studies have shown that individuals with seasonal conjunctivitis who were treated with zinc and antihistamines experienced an improvement in symptoms. Zinc may also be instrumental in increasing insulin production in individuals with diabetes. Since zinc assists in the absorption of other minerals, it also improves bone strength. It must be kept in mind that the daily intake of zinc should not exceed 100 mg as an excessive intake of zinc could lead to certain negative side effects such as drowsiness, nausea, diarrhea and dizziness.