Zinc is an essential mineral that is naturally present in some foods, added to others, and available as a dietary supplement. Zinc is also found in many cold lozenges and some over-the-counter drugs sold as cold remedies.
Zinc is involved in numerous aspects of cellular metabolism. It is required for the catalytic activity of approximately 100 enzymes and it plays a role in immune function, protein synthesis, wound healing, DNA synthesis, and cell division. Zinc also supports normal growth and development during pregnancy, childhood, and adolescence and is required for proper sense of taste and smell. A daily intake of zinc is required to maintain a steady-state because the body has no specialized zinc storage system.
Zinc is an essential mineral for the immune system. Only 15 mg a day of Zinc supplement will improve wound healing, the functioning of our immune system, eyesight, brain development, sperm, and the synthesis of testosterone.
Zinc antiviral properties were first discovered in 1980 when doctors treated a 3-year old girl with a 50 mg zinc gluconate tablet to help boost her immune system. In a controlled trial, 50 volunteers took about 13 mg of zinc in the form of zinc acetate or placebo every 2-3 hours as long as they had cold symptoms. The results were statistically significant. The zinc group had a shorter average duration of colds, 4.5 days versus 8 days. The total zinc taken was about 80 mg a day, which although well above the daily requirement, should not cause any problems over such a short period.
As a dietary supplement, take one (1) capsule daily with meals, or as directed by a health care professional.
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WARNING: If you are pregnant, nursing, taking any medications or planning any medical procedure, consult your doctor before use. Discontinue use and consult a doctor if any adverse reactions occur.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.