Zinc when sick

For a cold, the suggested amount is 90–100 mg of zinc acetate per day; evidence for zinc specifically treating flu is less definitive. 1

• Doses below 75 mg: Described as unlikely to shorten or prevent a cold. 2
• Take with food: Zinc on an empty stomach can cause nausea; taking it with a meal and splitting the daily amount into two doses may help. 3
• Children and pregnancy: Children under 15 should avoid excessive zinc supplementation, and pregnant women should consult a doctor before supplementing. 4