A study just released a few days ago found that zinc can reduce the severity of a common cold in healthy people when taken within 24 hours of cold symptoms.
Those who took zinc also did better than those who did not, in developing fewer colds, missed less days of school, and had fewer prescriptions for antibiotics. It is still unclear in “how much” zinc is necessary as a supplement to reduce the number of days one suffers with a cold.
The zinc treated group did although complain of some mild side effects including stomach irritation. Stay tuned for more info, when its available. Before you save money on tissues, as always, check with your health care provider if you are taking prescription medications!
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Title: Zinc for the common cold URL: http://www2.cochrane.org/reviews/en/ab001364.html