Re: What is the latest info on using Zinc in lozengers to combat cold symtoms?

Hi Joan,

There are many different strains of the cold virus and so at present, it 
is impossible to be inoculated against them all.  Colds are more prevalent 
in the wintertime as with closed rooms and heating systems the virus is 
easily spread from person to person.  The duration of the cold symptoms 
will depend on the strength of the virus and the immune system as well as 
the treatments used.

There really is no strong evidence from trials that taking zinc can help 
improve the common cold.  A virus causes colds and it has been thought 
that zinc might stop the virus from growing. My reviews found no strong 
evidence from trials that taking zinc lozenges can help recovery from a 
cold. Most zinc formulas have adverse effects such as mouth irritation, 
distortion of taste, feeling sick and diarrhea.  More research is needed 
on whether zinc has any value in relieving colds.  One parameter I often 
use to judge a product’s worth is its shelf life after the initial 
marketing push is over.  By this I mean how much is being purchased by the 
consumer after all the hoopla has subsided.  Not very scientific 
but most consumers will try most anything once in hopes that it might 
actually work, but the numbers diminish quickly if positive results are 
not noticed.  Zinc lozenges have slowed to a snails pace.  

It is important to maintain a healthy immune system, which can give some 
protection against viruses and also help to reduce the extent of the 
secondary bacterial infections such as chest infections and sinusitis.  A 
diet high in fresh vegetables and unrefined foods is recommended, avoiding 
processed foods, tobacco and too much alcohol.  There are many products 
available to help ease the symptoms of a cold such as menthol-eucalyptus, 
throat sweets, and different forms of analgesics (Tylenol, Motrin, or 
generic equivalent act as antipyretics) for fever etc.  It’s a good idea 
to take an expectorant (ask your pharmacist) since this helps to loosen 
phlegm.

Useful supplements to boost the immune system and aid the healing process.
 
       ·Vitamin C 1-2 grams daily – vitamin C has been shown 

         to shorten the duration of a cold though the exact 
         time is debatable.
 
       ·Vitamin A 7,500iu daily – for mucous membrane health. 

       ·Vitamin B complex (any brand) daily. 

       ·Garlic –High Potency – garlic has antiviral, antibacterial and 
        anti-catarrh properties 

       ·Fluids, fluids, and more fluids.


Hoped this helped..Mark