What is the potential importance of taking zinc?

Zinc deficiency is not common in Western countries, except in people with low incomes. Zinc supplements (10 mg per day) have prevented growth impairment in deficient American and Canadian children. Supplementation with 25 to 150 mg of zinc per day has been shown to increase immune function in healthy people However, too much zinc has been reported to impair immune function and some healthcare practitioners recommend no more than 30 to 50 mg per day. It is unknown whether these immune system changes are sufficient to cause or prevent infections or other diseases in people taking zinc supplements. Regular supplementation with zinc should be accompanied by copper supplements to prevent zinc-induced copper deficiency.