Zinc is an important part of our diet. It is found in meat, shellfish, dairy and some cereals. Most people get enough from a balanced diet.
Zinc is pivotal in would healing, keeping the protective skin barrier intact, and supporting the function of white blood cells.
Woman need about 7mg a day, men need about 9.5mg. Too much zinc can reduce copper absorption by the body, carrying a risk of anaemia and osteoporosis, so if you choose a supplement, stick to a maximum of 25mg per day.
It has been suggested that zinc can reduce the ability of some viruses to multiply, so there have been many studies looking at the effect of zinc lozenges on both preventing and treating the common cold. While results have been conflicting (partly due to uncertainty about the dose and type of lozenge) there is some evidence that they might speed recovery from colds.
It is still too early for reliable studies into its effect on the coronavirus, though it is possible that it might inhibit the action of some viruses.
Source: Health column in Good Housekeeping, June 2020.
