Zinc stops colds!

Zinc stops colds

A recent study published by the Cochrane Library has shown that zinc significantly reduces the duration and severity of common cold symptoms. Since 1984, studies investigating the effects of zinc on common cold symptoms have been conflicting. According to the Cochrane report, previous trials were flawed due to poor bioavailability of zinc use.

Two authors, Dr Singh and Dr Das, independently reviewed randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials which either used zinc for at least five consecutive days as a treatment, or used zinc for at least five months as a prevention for the common cold. They analysed the data from 15 trials involving 1,360 participants.

The results showed that patients who took zinc within 24 hours of the onset of illness experienced less severity and duration of their symptoms. When zinc was supplemented for at least five months, developing a cold became less, absence from school became less and the need for antibiotics reduced. Zinc syrup or tablets had no side effects but in some patients, zinc lozenges were shown to cause a ‘bad’ taste and nausea. If you or your family suffer from frequent colds then it’s time to stock up on a zinc supplement – just check that you select one that contains a bio-available form of zinc.