Zinc is an essential mineral for the human body. It is vital for the body immune system to provide resistance to infection, and it may decrease the ability of cold viruses to grow on or bind to the lining of the nose. People who are deficient in zinc can become susceptible to infectious agents, such as the common cold virus.
Zinc as a Dietary Supplement
A daily source of zinc is recommended because the body does not have the ability to store zinc. Foods that are good sources of zinc are primarily animal-based, such as oysters, beef, crab, pork and chicken. Symptoms of zinc deficiency include impaired immune system function and delayed wound healing. Zinc supplements come in three forms: zinc gluconate, zinc sulfate and zinc acetate.
Zinc as a Lozenge
Zinc lozenges may be beneficial in the treatment of a cold. According to a small study in the Journal of Infectious Diseases in March 2008, zinc acetate lozenges taken within 24 hours of developing symptoms can reduce the duration and severity of the common cold. It is recommended to take the lozenges every two to four hours for the optimal results, but for no longer than five days.
Zinc as a Nasal Spray
Zinc nasal sprays have been introduced as an alternative to lozenges for the treatment of cold symptoms. Brand names include Zicam, made by Matrixx Initiatives. Zinc nasal sprays have been shown in several reports to decrease the sense of smell in both humans and animals, a condition called anosmia. In June 2009, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned consumers to stop using zinc nasal sprays to treat colds due to this reason.
