Taking Vitamin C And Zinc For A Cold
A cold is a common viral infection that affects the upper respiratory tract. It can cause symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat, cough, and fever. While there is no cure for the common cold, there are ways to alleviate the symptoms and speed up the recovery process. Two popular remedies for a cold are Vitamin C and Zinc.
What is Vitamin C?
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in the immune system. It helps to protect cells and keep them healthy, as well as aid in the production of collagen, a protein that helps to heal wounds. Vitamin C is found in many fruits and vegetables, including citrus fruits, kiwi, strawberries, and bell peppers.
What is Zinc?
Zinc is a mineral that is essential for the immune system to function properly. It helps to fight off viruses and bacteria and is also important for the growth and development of the body. Zinc is found in many foods, including oysters, beef, poultry, and beans. It is also available as a supplement.
How do Vitamin C and Zinc help with a cold?
Vitamin C and Zinc are often used to help alleviate the symptoms of a cold and speed up the recovery process. Vitamin C is thought to help boost the immune system and reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms. Zinc is also believed to help reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms, as well as help to prevent future colds.
How much Vitamin C and Zinc should you take?
The recommended daily intake of Vitamin C for adults is 75-90mg per day, while the recommended daily intake of Zinc for adults is 8-11mg per day. It is important to not exceed the recommended daily intake of these nutrients, as too much can lead to negative side effects.
What are the side effects of taking Vitamin C and Zinc?
While Vitamin C and Zinc are generally safe to take, there are some potential side effects to be aware of. Taking too much Vitamin C can cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and in some cases, kidney stones. Taking too much Zinc can cause stomach upset, nausea, and in severe cases, can interfere with the absorption of other nutrients.
Conclusion
Taking Vitamin C and Zinc for a cold is a popular remedy that can help alleviate symptoms and speed up the recovery process. It is important to not exceed the recommended daily intake of these nutrients and to be aware of potential side effects. If you are unsure whether or not to take Vitamin C or Zinc for a cold, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional.