Shoppers may be turning to zinc this cold and flu season via lozenges, supplements and nasal sprays, but an opinion piece in the Los Angles Times warns taking too much could lead to learning and memory problems, nerve damage, urinary tract problems and other negative effects.
The writer Emily Sohn said supplements, medicine, fortified foods and a healthy diet may be providing too much zinc for some Americans. In developing countries, zinc deficiency is a problem. Not getting enough of the mineral can damage memory, eyesight, taste buds and the immune system
However, in North America, many are getting too much, reported the article. Sohn mentioned studies show consuming at least 50 milligrams a day for a few months could lead to copper deficiency, which can cause anemia, bone loss, nerve damage and other problems including cancer. The recommended daily amount in America is 11 mg for men and 8 mg for women.
The article warns zinc in denture creams and nasal sprays have been shown cause health problems.