Zinc

The well publisized zinc lozenges have created interest in zinc for the common cold, but many people do not know the benifits in the every day usage of zinc. There has been recent enthusiasm over the potential benefits of treating the common cold with zinc lozenges. Conclusions of this well-done study show that cold symptoms resolved nearly twice as fast in patients who took the lozenges as in the placebo group. It seems that zinc may have some anti-viral effects, or may work by boosting the immune system. The use of zinc gluconate lozenges appears to be safe and effective for reducing the duration of symptoms of the common cold. The individuals wishing to try the over-the-counter lozenges should start the therapy within 24 hours of getting cold symptoms. Avoid taking them with fruit juice as citric acid can bind zinc. Also zinc can decrease the absorption of some antibiotics - so be sure to separate the zinc and antibiotic by at least two hours.