How can one A cold prevent it or shorten it if it is already there? Opinions on this vary widely: while some say you can just wait until the flu has subsided after a week, others take vitamin supplements or other measures. In this context, zinc is one of the lesser-known remedies. The trace element may have potential to prevent or treat the common cold, reports the “Ärztezeitung”. This was revealed by a study conducted by Dr. G. Michael Allan from the University of Alberta in Edmonton, Canada and Professor Bruce Arroll from the University of Auckland in New Zealand.
Hygiene, face mask and zinc against cold
The scientists reviewed various studies and data on which means are used to prevent colds and how effective the preventive measures were. It turned out that thorough hygiene such as hand washing and the use of protective gloves or face masks were the most effective. In addition, zinc could possibly have a preventive effect.
The most common cold remedies such as vitamins C and D and echinacea, on the other hand, are definitely unsuitable. The data was inconclusive for other preventive candidates, including ginseng, Garlicvarious homeopathic remedies, as well as gargling for colds.
Zinc with potential in adults
Studies in which children took the relevant preparations provided indications that the mineral zinc can be suitable for preventing colds. This was about zincsulfate tablets with a dosage of 10 or 15 milligrams. The researchers assume that these could have a similar effect in adults to prevent a common cold.
However, not only in the prevention, but also in the treatment of an acute cold, scientists classify a therapeutic effect of orally taken zinc preparations as probable – in this case, however, only in adults and not in children. However, nausea could occur as an unpleasant side effect. However, the experts advise against intranasal application, i.e. through the nose, because of dangerous side effects. As a general rule, you should seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist rather than starting self-medication.