ZINC LOZENGES MAY help in shortening the recovery time of the common cold by 40 per cent, according to new research.

The combined results of 13 different studies were studied by Dr Harri Hemila of the University of Helsinki, Finland. The results indicated that if a person took a daily dose of zinc recovery time could be almost halved, the Express reports.

Three of the studies used indicated that daily doses of zinc higher than 75 milligrams, taken as soon as the symptoms of a cold appeared, reduced recovery time by 42 per cent.

Five studies showed that doses greater than 75 milligrams reduced the length of the illness by 20 per cent, and five trials found that doses less than 75 milligrams did not have an impact, report the Daily Mail.

It was first noticed that the mineral had a positive effect on people suffering from colds in the 1980s, when the cold symptoms young girl who was suffering from leukemia quickly disappeared when she was given zinc, News Medical reports. Notably, this happened when the zinc was dissolved in the mouth instead of being swallowed.

However, the EU’s recommended daily intake of zinc stands at 10 milligrams per day for adults, meaning the results of the study suggest taking more than the amount approved by health bodies.

Zinc is not stored in the body and deficiencies of the mineral are common. It is vital for the immune system, for maintaining the senses of taste and smell, and fertility in men.