Research zinc intake relieves colds
A new meta-analysis concludes that lozenges with zinc acetate help to heal a cold faster. (Image: eyeQ / fotolia.com)
Researchers from Finland report that zinc appears to increase the recovery rate of colds three-fold. They had evaluated three studies. It was found that on the fifth day after the onset of a cold, almost three times as many people who took the zinc tablets were healthy compared to the placebo group (70% versus 27%). The dose used in the studies was between 80 and 92 milligrams per day. The studies have shown no serious side effects, although the dose was well above the daily recommended dose of zinc by the German Nutrition Society.
The scientists point out the different quality and composition of zinc lozenges that are currently available on the market. These would sometimes have a different dosage or contain substances that bind zinc ions, such as citric acid. Therefore, the study results could easily be transferred to all products. (Federal German Non-medical practitioner)