Zinc Studied for Pneumonia Prevention
Zinc is a mineral that is found in almost every cell of the body. It isnecessary for the maintenance of the immune system, wound healing,normal taste and smell, normal growth and development, and for thebody to make DNA. Most Americans get zinc by eating red meat andpoultry. Other food sources of zinc include beans, nuts, some fish, anddairy products. The recommended daily allowance of zinc for womenaged 19 years and older is 8mg per day. The recommended daily allow-ance of zinc for men aged 19 years and older is 11mg per day. Individualsat risk for zinc deficiency include vegetarians, alcoholics, and personswith poor dietary habits.
One recent study evaluated the effects of zinc supplementation onthe risk of acquiring pneumonia in elderly nursing home residents. In thestudy, participants received a supplement containing 7mg zinc once daily(along with other vitamins and minerals) for one year. At the end of thestudy, the persons with a higher zinc level due to supplementation had alower risk of developing pneumonia. The role of zinc in the prevention ofpneumonia continues to be evaluated.