Zinc Lozenges

Zinc is an essential trace element involved in most major metabolic pathways. General signs of human zinc deficiency indicate that zinc has important functions in maintaining immune function, reproduction, healthy skin, and growth. Numerous studies support the fundamental role of zinc in normal immune response in humans.  Zinc supplementation has been shown to increase antioxidant activity, and provide increased free radical protection. Zinc deficiency is associated with increased oxidative damage. Absorption of toxic heavy metals, especially cadmium and lead, is lower in individuals with high zinc status compared to those with low zinc status. The body pool of readily available zinc appears to be small, which renders the body susceptible to deficiency and therefore dependent on a steady dietary supply of bioavailable zinc. While typical zinc intakes in U.S. adults are between 10 and 15 mg per day, which approach RDA, intakes in the elderly are often low. Pregnant women are also at ris