Immune-Boosting
Zinc
Critical for immune cell development and function. Deficiency impairs T-cell function. Zinc lozenges reduce cold duration. Supports wound healing. Needed for over 300 enzyme systems.
Mechanism of Action
Critical for immune cell development and function. Deficiency impairs T-cell function. Zinc lozenges reduce cold duration. Supports wound healing. Needed for over 300 enzyme systems.
Active Compounds
Therapeutic Applications
Serving Size & Preparation
Recommended Serving Size
15-30mg daily, up to 50mg during illness
Preparation Guidelines
Zinc picolinate or glycinate best absorbed. Take with food (nausea on empty stomach). Copper balance important (don't megadose long-term)
Synergistic Combinations
These foods and compounds enhance the therapeutic effects of Zinc:
Additional Notes
Second most common mineral deficiency, critical for immunity
Safety Information
Contraindications
>50mg long-term depletes copper, nausea if on empty stomach
Quick Facts
Evidence Level
Related Foods
Vitamin D3
Critical for immune cell function. Deficiency impairs T-cell and macrophage function. Reduces risk of respiratory infections. Modulates inflammatory response. Supports innate and adaptive immunity.
Garlic (Immune)
Allicin has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. Stimulates macrophages and NK cells. Enhances T-cell proliferation. Antiviral effects against common cold, flu.
Medicinal Mushrooms (Immune)
Beta-glucans activate macrophages, NK cells, and T-cells. Immune-modulating (not just stimulating). Increase immune surveillance. Adaptogenic immune effects.