Zinc
Zinc helps fight infection and heal wounds and strengthen the immune system. It has become a popular treatment for the common cold.
Zinc and copper along with vitamins A, B-6, C and E plus iron and selenium raise production of the immune system’s defensive T-cells and boost the activity of natural-killer cells. Although moderate doses of zinc can enhance immunity, high doses can depress it and should be avoided. The best plant sources of zinc are legumes (dried beans, garbanzos, black-eyed peas, lentils, peas, soy products) and whole grains.
Andrew Weil, M.D., Professor,
University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ, and author of: Natural Health, Natural Medicine: The Complete Guide to Wellness and Self-Care for Optimum Health
Additional reading on Zinc
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Zinc Overview
- University of Oregon Linus Pauling Institute: Zinc
- MedicineNet: Zinc for Colds: Lozenges & Nasal Sprays
- FitDay: Which Type of Zinc Supplement Should You Use?
Vitamin World: Zinc Products
Drugstore.com: Zinc Products
Amazon.com Zinc Products
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