Zinc could cut infection incidence in over 55s

Daily zinc supplementation may assist ‘healthy ageing', says new research. A report from Wayne State University School of Medicine and the University of Michigan in the USA suggests zinc may reduce the number of infections in those aged between 55 and 87, and also boost antioxidant status. 

The study, which involved 50 healthy subjects, half of whom received 45mg of elemental zinc per day, found that "after zinc supplementation, the incidence of infections was significantly lower," and inflammation markers had also dropped.

As we age, author Professor David Richardson explained, energy intake declines, making it harder to ensure adequate levels of micronutrients are consumed. This deficiency has created a role for supplementation, he said.

A plentiful trace element in the body, zinc mediates many physiological functions and is considered essential for a functioning immune system.