Immune function and wound healing.
Well studied
Photo: Engin AkyurtWhat the research says
Zinc lozenges or syrup started soon after a cold begins appear to shorten it by about 2 days but not reduce severity. Zinc with copper and antioxidants (AREDS) slows advanced macular degeneration.
Doses of 50 mg or more taken for weeks can block copper absorption, lower HDL cholesterol and weaken immune function.
About "most pills": NIH ODS describes cold trials using 13.3 mg zinc acetate or gluconate lozenges; total daily doses in cold trials ranged from 45 to 300 mg.
Sources: ods.od.nih.gov
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