While the common cold may seem little more than a nuisance for some people, the physical discomfort and annoying symptoms might make you wish you could shorten the length of your cold. Some companies manufacture and market vitamin and mineral supplements aimed at treating the common cold. Although zinc and vitamin C lozenges don't require a prescription, avoid consuming excessive amounts of these or other supplements, particularly without your doctor's approval.
Common Cold
As the name suggests, common colds occur frequently in many individuals. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, adults may experience two to four colds each year, while children can contract as many as 10. While you may not be able to eliminate your chances of catching colds, certain dietary supplements may supply useful nutrients.
Zinc Lozenges
Zinc is an essential tract element supplied in various forms, including zinc lozenges. Lozenges allow zinc supplements to dissolve slowly in your mouth, rather than quickly entering your stomach and lower digestive system. According to MedlinePlus, zinc lozenges may decrease the length of your cold, while zinc pills and sprays may not provide effective results. Although research as of 2010 may not provide scientific reasons for the effectiveness of zinc, this supplement nevertheless appears to lessen the symptoms of the common cold.
Vitamin C Considerations
While many may run for vitamin C supplements at the first sign of a cold, the Mayo Clinic warns that this vitamin won't help prevent colds in the average individual. However, taking vitamin C as soon as you notice common cold symptoms may help shorten the duration of your symptoms. Some varieties of zinc lozenges also contain varying amounts of this water-soluble vitamin.
Recommendations
The Institute of Medicine provides recommendations for how much you should get of certain nutrients, including zinc and vitamin C. According to the institute's dietary reference intake guidelines, adults men should consume about 11 milligrams of zinc per day, while adult women should consume around 8 mg. The guidelines recommend men get about 90 mg of vitamin C daily, while women should shoot for around 75 mg.
Precautions
While zinc and vitamin C lozenges may provide some relief when you catch a common cold, these substances may also pose some problems, particularly in high doses. The University of Maryland Medical Center warns that high doses of vitamin C may cause diarrhea, and recommends that you only consume high doses of vitamin C under your doctor's supervision. MedlinePlus warns adults to avoid taking more than 40 mg of zinc orally each day. Excessive amounts of zinc may increase your chances of prostate cancer, as well as causing nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and damage to your kidneys and stomach.
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