Many people turn to zinc lozenges and supplements when they start to feel down, and for good reason.Not only is zinc one of the most abundant trace elements in your body, but it also plays a key role in almost every aspect of health. For example, zinc is required as a cofactor for more than 300 different enzymes, meaning it is necessary for their proper functioning.Plus, with research showing that this mineral can boost immune function, stabilize blood sugar, and support skin, eye, and heart health, there's plenty of reason to make sure you're getting your daily dose.Zinc is vital to many aspects of health and has been linked to a variety of benefits.Zinc supplements are often used to treat and prevent zinc deficiency.Although zinc deficiency is rare, this mineral is considered an essential nutrient, meaning your body is unable to produce it on its own. People with restricted diets, malabsorption, or certain medical conditions may be more susceptible.Symptoms of zinc deficiency include decreased immunity, hair loss, poor appetite, diarrhea, and slow wound healing.Numerous studies have shown that taking zinc supplements effectively increases the level of zinc in the blood.According to one review, most cases of zinc deficiency are easily corrected with nutritional supplements and dietary changes, resulting in rapid improvement of any symptoms caused by the deficiency.For example, diarrhea may subside in as little as 24 hours, while skin lesions usually heal within 1–2 weeks after people start taking supplements.If you are getting enough zinc in your diet, supplements may not be necessary. If you suspect you may be deficient, your doctor can test your blood levels to determine if a supplement might be helpful.Many over-the-counter medications and natural remedies contain zinc for its ability to boost immune function and fight inflammation. As such, it can potentially help treat certain types of infection if used at the first symptoms.One review of 7 studies found that zinc lozenges containing 80–92 mg of zinc can shorten the duration of colds by up to 33%.Zinc can also act as an antioxidant, reducing inflammation and protecting against chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes.According to a review of 28 studies, some evidence suggests that zinc may even prevent symptoms and shorten the duration of some respiratory infectionsZinc supplements are often used to treat and prevent zinc deficiency.Although zinc deficiency is rare, this mineral is considered an essential nutrient, meaning your body is unable to produce it on its own. People with restricted diets, malabsorption, or certain medical conditions may be more susceptible.Symptoms of zinc deficiency include decreased immunity, hair loss, poor appetite, diarrhea, and slow wound healing.Numerous studies have shown that taking zinc supplements effectively increases the level of zinc in the blood.According to one review, most cases of zinc deficiency are easily corrected with nutritional supplements and dietary changes, resulting in rapid improvement of any symptoms caused by the deficiency.For example, diarrhea may subside in as little as 24 hours, while skin lesions usually heal within 1–2 weeks after people start taking supplements.If you are getting enough zinc in your diet, supplements may not be necessary. If you suspect you may be deficient, your doctor can test your blood levels to determine if a supplement might be helpful.
