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Zinc supplements, such as Zicam and Cold-Eeze, can boost the immune system and shorten the duration of the common cold when taken at the onset of symptoms. They come in various forms and contain zinc gluconate, which has been clinically shown to reduce the severity and frequency of colds caused by the rhinovirus. Zinc supplements are not effective against other types of colds or flu and should not be taken with citrus fruits or juices. Consult a doctor before taking zinc supplements if currently taking antibiotics.
Zinc supplements are commonly used to boost the immune system and shorten the duration of the common cold. They are most effective when used at the onset of symptoms. Some popular brands of zinc supplements are Zicam and Cold-Eeze.
Zinc supplements come in a variety of forms. Cold-Eeze comes in lozenges and tablets, as well as lollipops and children’s gum. Zicam can be found in nasal swabs and gels, an oral spray, and chewable and quick-melt tablets. Zinc must be delivered to the mucosal surface to fight a cold, so conventional pills would not be effective.
The active ingredient in zinc supplements used to treat the common cold is zinc gluconate, which has been shown in clinical trials to shorten the duration of cold symptoms. Many users of zinc supplements also experience a reduction in the severity of cold symptoms. Finally, clinical trials have shown that zinc supplements reduce the annual frequency of colds when taken regularly. Cold-Eeze uses a proprietary formula called glycine zinc gluconate, which combines the amino acid glycine with zinc gluconate to make the latter more flavorful and stable.
Zinc supplements are not always effective. In general, they should be used at the beginning of a cold and may not help once the symptoms have already “grown in.” Zinc gluconate is the only form of zinc shown to be effective in supporting the immune system in clinical trials; Although other types of zinc are occasionally used in cold supplements, they have not been clinically shown to provide any relief.
Zinc supplements work against the rhinovirus, which is responsible for 80% of colds. They are not effective against other types of colds or against flu or allergy symptoms. Since zinc gluconate has a positive molecular charge and rhinovirus has a negative molecular charge, the zinc ions in cold supplements are attracted to and attach to the rhinovirus, preventing the virus from reproducing properly.
Do not consume citrus fruits or juices for half an hour before or after taking zinc, as they will interfere with the supplements. Zinc supplements may cause minor discomfort if taken on an empty stomach. Be sure to keep taking zinc until all your cold symptoms are gone to make sure the rhinovirus doesn’t go back to its peak. Consult a doctor before taking zinc supplements if you are currently taking antibiotics, as zinc may reduce their effectiveness.
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