Zinc for colds how does it work

You can take it in a syrup or lozenge forms, which are often mixed with other immune boosting ingredients like antioxidant-rich elderberry and flavoring; those help make taking this bitter ingredient a little more palatable. You also have the option to take pure zinc in a tablet or capsule form. Which is more efficient at tackling your cold? In terms of when to take zinc: Take it as soon as you feel that cold creeping in. Each formulation is different, so following the dosage instructions on the packaging is recommended.

Taking zinc orally is generally safe, according to the Mayo Clinic, but some people have found that the lozenges leave a bad aftertaste, while others find that the lozenges make them feel nauseous.

Most experts advise against using zinc nasal sprays, though, as they have caused some people to permanently lose their sense of smell. Allergy Relief. Allergy Relief Swabs. Zicam Cold Remedy. About Zicam Products. About the Common Cold. Cold Viruses.

Common Cold Facts and Myths. Cold Prevention. Zinc and Colds. About Homeopathy. Cold or Allergies. Cold or Flu. What is Zinc? Evidence that Zinc Shortens the Common Cold Studies on zinc lozenges have shown that taking zinc lozenges reduces the duration of cold symptoms. How Zinc Works While studied for many years, the exact mechanism of action by which zinc works to shorten the common cold is unknown.

Zinc may also prevent cold viruses from attaching to cells in the lining of the nose and throat Evidence suggests that cold-shortening results may vary depending on the specific zinc formulation used and how it is administered.

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Not for me. Print This Page Click to Print. Elizabeth Go. Susan Childs. Graeme Creed. Nev Smith. Helen Hoart. J Gottlieb. Staying Healthy.

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