Zinc seems to be gaining popularity lately. Recent research carried out at the Cleveland Clinic has linked it to an ability to lessen cold symptoms when sucked in the form of a lozenge of zinc gluconate as soon as cold symptoms appear.

Zinc Used to Reduce Colds

When you suck on zinc lozenges and decrease your incidence of colds, you are experiencing the action of a little extra zinc enhancing the immune system. That is, the zinc is acting as a protector against infections and automimmune disorders. A couple of zinc lozenges of 13 mg/each 2 to 4 times a day, appears to be safe IF taken only once in a while and with consultation with one's doctor. Be forewarned, however, that over 80% of those involved in the study in Cleveland found the zinc lozenges to leave a lingering foul taste in their mouths, and one out of five left with nausea. Since the study, many companies have jumped into the zinc lozenge market, so finding one that you can tolerate may take some trial and error. One of the most popular brands, and the one that made the initial move into the market, is Cold-Eeze. They attempt to mask the unpleasant flavor with tropical fruit extracts, and do a pretty good job of it.

Can You Get Too Much Zinc?

Too much zinc (over time) can actually backfire, suppressing immunity. Regular ingestion of more than 50 mg of zinc can interfere with the absorption of other nutrients, causing secondary deficiencies. Copper is a mineral whose absorption is depressed with too much zinc. Although zinc has a low toxicity for humans, The National Academy of Science actually warns against zinc supplements of more than 15 mg daily without medical supervision.