Taking tablets or syrups that contain zinc can shorten or even prevent the duration of a cold. This is according to research, led by lead researcher Meenu Singh, of the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research in Chandigarh, India.
Figures &facts
Adults get a cold about two to four times a year and children about ten times. Cold viruses spread easily, not just by coughing and sneezing for example, but also through door handles.
According to the researchers can zinc being a solution † They believe zinc can prevent colds and reduce infections † This would be because zinc inhibits the immune system strengthens and thus ensures that germs do not end up in the nose. Also, bacteria would no longer multiply.
More about colds>
Fifteen experiments were conducted among 1,360 people for the study. The results are promising. People who took zinc at the first cold symptoms were found to get less sick † They also recovered faster.
Further research has yet to determine which amount works best. Also the effects in the longer term yet to be viewed. Large amounts of zinc can be toxic.
