Zinc needs when children have colds, rashes and need to strengthen immunity

This is an automatically translated article.

The article is professionally consulted by Master, Doctor Phan Ngoc Hai - Pediatrician - Neonatologist - Vinmec Danang International General Hospital

1. Should zinc supplements be given to children with colds and rashes?

Children with colds can use zinc to strengthen the immune system and support the treatment of diseases. Studies have shown that zinc supplements can shorten the duration of colds by one to several days, and reduce the frequency of upper respiratory tract infections in children.
In addition to colds, zinc is also used in the treatment of other health conditions such as:
Infections and wounds Diaper rash Skin irritations, rashes Ulcers ADHD Acne Sickle cell anemia Herpes High cholesterol Rheumatoid arthritis HIV Macular degeneration Zinc is recommended as a supplement for people at high risk of zinc deficiency such as strict vegetarians, alcoholics, gastrointestinal conditions such as Crohn's disease .

2. What is the child's need for zinc?

Children's zinc needs are recommended including supplemental sources from food and functional foods.
Zinc content for children from 7 months - 13 years old Zinc content for women 14 years and older
Zinc content for women 14 years and older: 11 mg/day To avoid stomach irritation, add zinc in food. For the common cold, zinc lozenges are usually prescribed every 1-2 hours for 48 hours from the onset of symptoms. Then, take zinc lozenges every 1-2 hours while awake until symptoms disappear. Zinc supplements are available in both tablet and liquid forms.

3. Zinc is in which foods?

Food sources of zinc include:
Red meat Poultry Oysters Grains Beans and nuts

4. What are the side effects of zinc?

Side effects: Zinc supplements can cause stomach and mouth irritation. Zinc lozenges can cause changes in your sense of smell and taste for several days. If taken long-term, zinc lozenges can reduce the amount of trace element copper in the body. Zinc-containing nasal sprays have been linked to a loss of the sense of smell, which can be permanent. Drug interactions: Zinc can interact with certain medications such as birth control pills and some antibiotics. Zinc can also interact with other supplements, such as calcium, magnesium, copper, and iron. If you take medications or supplements on a daily basis, consult your doctor before taking a zinc supplement. Risks: People who are allergic to zinc, have HIV, or have hemochromatosis should not take zinc supplements without talking to their doctor first. Too much zinc can cause fever, cough, nausea, decreased immune function, mineral imbalance, cholesterol changes, and other problems. In pregnant women, high doses can harm the unborn baby. Children with colds, rashes and need to strengthen their immunity, parents can supplement zinc daily to help children eat well, reach the correct height and weight, and exceed the standard, help the immune system be good, strengthen the resistance to prevent disease. Fewer illnesses and less digestive problems. In addition to zinc, parents can supplement children with other important vitamins and minerals such as lysine, chromium, B vitamins, etc. to help children develop comprehensively.
To understand more about the role of zinc, parents can learn more: The role of zinc - A guide to reasonable zinc supplementation
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