5/20/2025
Last update
5/20/2025
Reviewed By
Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Moderately Effective
Based on 5 Researches
8.2
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 69 Reviews
8.1
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Softgel
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Zinc (from 150 mg Zinc Bisglycinate) (TRAACS™)
30 mg
273%
Pumpkin Seed Oil (Cold Pressed)
250 mg
†
Top Medical Research Studies
8
In our study, we examined how epipharyngeal abrasive therapy (EAT), which includes the use of zinc chloride, affects the expression of a key molecule known as Cav1.2. This molecule is essential for the influenza virus to enter cells, making it a crucial target in flu prevention strategies.
We compared two groups of patients: those who received EAT and those who did not. Our findings revealed that the levels of Cav1.2 were significantly lower in the EAT group, at a striking 4.19 times less than in the non-treated group. This suggests that the squamous metaplasia induced by EAT—which is a process of changing the epithelium—could be a beneficial approach to limiting flu infections.
The results of the study highlight zinc's potential indirect role in flu prevention by remarking on its contribution to lowering the expression of a critical receptor for the virus. Although we didn't isolate the effects of zinc alone, the findings indicate that treatments involving zinc, like EAT, may offer a straightforward way to help limit the impact of influenza.
We compared two groups of patients: those who received EAT and those who did not. Our findings revealed that the levels of Cav1.2 were significantly lower in the EAT group, at a striking 4.19 times less than in the non-treated group. This suggests that the squamous metaplasia induced by EAT—which is a process of changing the epithelium—could be a beneficial approach to limiting flu infections.
The results of the study highlight zinc's potential indirect role in flu prevention by remarking on its contribution to lowering the expression of a critical receptor for the virus. Although we didn't isolate the effects of zinc alone, the findings indicate that treatments involving zinc, like EAT, may offer a straightforward way to help limit the impact of influenza.
Read More
8
We set out to uncover how Euglena extract might help combat influenza, particularly focusing on its components like zinc. This microalga, known for its nutritional benefits, has shown promise in alleviating flu symptoms in mice. Our investigation revealed that Euglena extract significantly inhibited various strains of the influenza virus, including those that resist traditional antiviral medications like oseltamivir and amantadine.
Through our research involving Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells, we discovered that the extract doesn't disrupt the virus's replication cycle directly. Instead, it appears to bolster the host's defenses, which means it enhances our body's natural ability to fight off the virus. One of the key contributors to this antiviral activity seems to be the minerals present in the extract, particularly zinc.
Overall, this study suggests that Euglena extract could be a promising tool for flu prevention and treatment. Its potential benefits highlight the need for new approaches in tackling influenza, especially with the rise of drug-resistant strains. Our findings advocate for further exploration into how zinc and other components in Euglena can enhance our defenses against influenza.
Through our research involving Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells, we discovered that the extract doesn't disrupt the virus's replication cycle directly. Instead, it appears to bolster the host's defenses, which means it enhances our body's natural ability to fight off the virus. One of the key contributors to this antiviral activity seems to be the minerals present in the extract, particularly zinc.
Overall, this study suggests that Euglena extract could be a promising tool for flu prevention and treatment. Its potential benefits highlight the need for new approaches in tackling influenza, especially with the rise of drug-resistant strains. Our findings advocate for further exploration into how zinc and other components in Euglena can enhance our defenses against influenza.
Read More
8
We explored the role of zinc in supporting our immune system, especially in the fight against influenza. The studies suggest that zinc might be beneficial in reducing the viral load during flu infections.
Evidence shows that zinc can decrease the severity of symptoms associated with viral pneumonia, which is often a complication of influenza. Additionally, it appears to have a positive impact on the overall recovery process, potentially shortening the duration of illness.
We also noted that zinc may enhance the effectiveness of certain COVID-19 treatments, which gives further credence to its immune-boosting properties. However, the precise relationship between zinc levels and vaccine effectiveness, particularly for flu vaccines, remains complex and requires more investigation.
Ultimately, our understanding indicates that incorporating zinc into our regimen could provide an additional layer of defense against the flu virus while supporting our immune health.
Evidence shows that zinc can decrease the severity of symptoms associated with viral pneumonia, which is often a complication of influenza. Additionally, it appears to have a positive impact on the overall recovery process, potentially shortening the duration of illness.
We also noted that zinc may enhance the effectiveness of certain COVID-19 treatments, which gives further credence to its immune-boosting properties. However, the precise relationship between zinc levels and vaccine effectiveness, particularly for flu vaccines, remains complex and requires more investigation.
Ultimately, our understanding indicates that incorporating zinc into our regimen could provide an additional layer of defense against the flu virus while supporting our immune health.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Best for colds
25 people found this helpful
I find zinc glycinate to be the best during colds and flu. Our entire family takes it when we have colds. The quality is superb, with the most natural vitamins and ingredients.
Read More
9
Protects family
4 people found this helpful
A genuinely effective product. Although I seldom write reviews, I've purchased this for the third time, and surprisingly, it protects my family against seasonal illnesses, including influenza. It works effectively, hence every year I take zinc, and we all drink it daily, leading to fewer sicknesses.
Read More
9
Reduces flu symptoms
3 people found this helpful
Good! I took it to boost my immunity with vitamin C, and it reduces hair fall. This product enhances immunity during flu season, alleviating symptoms and shortening illness duration. I highly recommend it.
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Moderately Effective
Based on 5 Researches
8.2
- All Researches
9
We investigated the potential of zinc in combination with herbal polyphenols and copper to reduce the infectivity of respiratory RNA viruses, including the flu. This study is particularly timely due to the ongoing challenges posed by viruses like SARS-CoV-2, highlighting the need for effective therapeutic solutions.
Zinc ions are known to play a role in modulating viral RNA replication, which makes them an appealing option for decreasing viral loads and infectivity. However, a significant challenge is that the natural concentration of zinc in our cells is often too low for effective results. To tackle this, we combined zinc picolinate, a form of zinc that’s easier for the body to absorb, with a range of flavonoids—natural compounds renowned for their antioxidant properties and existing antiviral effects.
We ensured that these combinations were safe by assessing their impact on cultured cells, confirming that they didn’t harm cell viability. When tested further, our results revealed an impressive 50-95% reduction in viral genome replication levels across a variety of respiratory RNA viruses, including the flu virus, which suggests that this combination therapy could be promising in the fight against such illnesses.
Overall, our findings highlight an innovative approach to treating viral infections that is non-toxic, derived from nature, and may remain effective against emerging viral strains.
Zinc ions are known to play a role in modulating viral RNA replication, which makes them an appealing option for decreasing viral loads and infectivity. However, a significant challenge is that the natural concentration of zinc in our cells is often too low for effective results. To tackle this, we combined zinc picolinate, a form of zinc that’s easier for the body to absorb, with a range of flavonoids—natural compounds renowned for their antioxidant properties and existing antiviral effects.
We ensured that these combinations were safe by assessing their impact on cultured cells, confirming that they didn’t harm cell viability. When tested further, our results revealed an impressive 50-95% reduction in viral genome replication levels across a variety of respiratory RNA viruses, including the flu virus, which suggests that this combination therapy could be promising in the fight against such illnesses.
Overall, our findings highlight an innovative approach to treating viral infections that is non-toxic, derived from nature, and may remain effective against emerging viral strains.
Read More
8
In our evaluation of how zinc can impact flu symptoms, we observed a study that examined the effects of gargling with an antimicrobial mouthwash containing zinc and cetylpyridinium chloride.
A total of 150 individuals participated, divided into two groups: one group followed a regular oral hygiene routine with fluoride toothpaste, while the other group followed the same routine but added gargling with a mouthwash containing 0.075% zinc.
The results revealed that regular gargling with this mouthwash helped reduce the frequency and severity of upper respiratory symptoms, with participants using the mouthwash showing a 21.5% lower frequency and 11% reduced severity in symptoms.
However, it's important to note that the study did not isolate the effects of zinc, leaving questions about the specific contributions of this mineral to the overall findings. Therefore, while we can see that the mouthwash appears beneficial, we cannot definitively attribute its effects solely to zinc.
A total of 150 individuals participated, divided into two groups: one group followed a regular oral hygiene routine with fluoride toothpaste, while the other group followed the same routine but added gargling with a mouthwash containing 0.075% zinc.
The results revealed that regular gargling with this mouthwash helped reduce the frequency and severity of upper respiratory symptoms, with participants using the mouthwash showing a 21.5% lower frequency and 11% reduced severity in symptoms.
However, it's important to note that the study did not isolate the effects of zinc, leaving questions about the specific contributions of this mineral to the overall findings. Therefore, while we can see that the mouthwash appears beneficial, we cannot definitively attribute its effects solely to zinc.
Read More
8
In our study, we examined how epipharyngeal abrasive therapy (EAT), which includes the use of zinc chloride, affects the expression of a key molecule known as Cav1.2. This molecule is essential for the influenza virus to enter cells, making it a crucial target in flu prevention strategies.
We compared two groups of patients: those who received EAT and those who did not. Our findings revealed that the levels of Cav1.2 were significantly lower in the EAT group, at a striking 4.19 times less than in the non-treated group. This suggests that the squamous metaplasia induced by EAT—which is a process of changing the epithelium—could be a beneficial approach to limiting flu infections.
The results of the study highlight zinc's potential indirect role in flu prevention by remarking on its contribution to lowering the expression of a critical receptor for the virus. Although we didn't isolate the effects of zinc alone, the findings indicate that treatments involving zinc, like EAT, may offer a straightforward way to help limit the impact of influenza.
We compared two groups of patients: those who received EAT and those who did not. Our findings revealed that the levels of Cav1.2 were significantly lower in the EAT group, at a striking 4.19 times less than in the non-treated group. This suggests that the squamous metaplasia induced by EAT—which is a process of changing the epithelium—could be a beneficial approach to limiting flu infections.
The results of the study highlight zinc's potential indirect role in flu prevention by remarking on its contribution to lowering the expression of a critical receptor for the virus. Although we didn't isolate the effects of zinc alone, the findings indicate that treatments involving zinc, like EAT, may offer a straightforward way to help limit the impact of influenza.
Read More
8
We set out to uncover how Euglena extract might help combat influenza, particularly focusing on its components like zinc. This microalga, known for its nutritional benefits, has shown promise in alleviating flu symptoms in mice. Our investigation revealed that Euglena extract significantly inhibited various strains of the influenza virus, including those that resist traditional antiviral medications like oseltamivir and amantadine.
Through our research involving Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells, we discovered that the extract doesn't disrupt the virus's replication cycle directly. Instead, it appears to bolster the host's defenses, which means it enhances our body's natural ability to fight off the virus. One of the key contributors to this antiviral activity seems to be the minerals present in the extract, particularly zinc.
Overall, this study suggests that Euglena extract could be a promising tool for flu prevention and treatment. Its potential benefits highlight the need for new approaches in tackling influenza, especially with the rise of drug-resistant strains. Our findings advocate for further exploration into how zinc and other components in Euglena can enhance our defenses against influenza.
Through our research involving Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells, we discovered that the extract doesn't disrupt the virus's replication cycle directly. Instead, it appears to bolster the host's defenses, which means it enhances our body's natural ability to fight off the virus. One of the key contributors to this antiviral activity seems to be the minerals present in the extract, particularly zinc.
Overall, this study suggests that Euglena extract could be a promising tool for flu prevention and treatment. Its potential benefits highlight the need for new approaches in tackling influenza, especially with the rise of drug-resistant strains. Our findings advocate for further exploration into how zinc and other components in Euglena can enhance our defenses against influenza.
Read More
8
We explored the role of zinc in supporting our immune system, especially in the fight against influenza. The studies suggest that zinc might be beneficial in reducing the viral load during flu infections.
Evidence shows that zinc can decrease the severity of symptoms associated with viral pneumonia, which is often a complication of influenza. Additionally, it appears to have a positive impact on the overall recovery process, potentially shortening the duration of illness.
We also noted that zinc may enhance the effectiveness of certain COVID-19 treatments, which gives further credence to its immune-boosting properties. However, the precise relationship between zinc levels and vaccine effectiveness, particularly for flu vaccines, remains complex and requires more investigation.
Ultimately, our understanding indicates that incorporating zinc into our regimen could provide an additional layer of defense against the flu virus while supporting our immune health.
Evidence shows that zinc can decrease the severity of symptoms associated with viral pneumonia, which is often a complication of influenza. Additionally, it appears to have a positive impact on the overall recovery process, potentially shortening the duration of illness.
We also noted that zinc may enhance the effectiveness of certain COVID-19 treatments, which gives further credence to its immune-boosting properties. However, the precise relationship between zinc levels and vaccine effectiveness, particularly for flu vaccines, remains complex and requires more investigation.
Ultimately, our understanding indicates that incorporating zinc into our regimen could provide an additional layer of defense against the flu virus while supporting our immune health.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 69 Reviews
8.1
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
9
Best for colds
25 people found this helpful
I find zinc glycinate to be the best during colds and flu. Our entire family takes it when we have colds. The quality is superb, with the most natural vitamins and ingredients.
Read More
9
Protects family
4 people found this helpful
A genuinely effective product. Although I seldom write reviews, I've purchased this for the third time, and surprisingly, it protects my family against seasonal illnesses, including influenza. It works effectively, hence every year I take zinc, and we all drink it daily, leading to fewer sicknesses.
Read More
9
Reduces flu symptoms
3 people found this helpful
Good! I took it to boost my immunity with vitamin C, and it reduces hair fall. This product enhances immunity during flu season, alleviating symptoms and shortening illness duration. I highly recommend it.
Read More
9
Digestive sensitivity
3 people found this helpful
Please note that if you have a weak stomach, consuming noodles or wheat-based food can cause reflux and may be difficult to digest. Lying down or being inactive might lead to discomfort in the morning.
Read More
9
Excellent for flu
1 people found this helpful
Now Foods provides an excellent remedy for colds and flu.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
9
Relieves cold symptoms
An excellent combination of price, quantity, and quality. During cold season, I take one capsule daily with vitamin C. If ARVI or influenza symptoms begin, I increase to 2-3 capsules in the initial days alongside 2-3 grams of vitamin C. I also include vitamin D and omega, and within a few days, the cold symptoms recede.
9
Effective treatment
An essential remedy for treating influenza. In the initial days of illness, I take up to 150 mg daily, then reduce to 50 mg for a month. It proves effective for both treatment and prevention of flu.
0
Ineffective for me
1 people found this helpful
Unfortunately, I got the flu right after starting this supplement and it hasn't helped me stay healthy.
9
Protects family
4 people found this helpful
A genuinely effective product. Although I seldom write reviews, I've purchased this for the third time, and surprisingly, it protects my family against seasonal illnesses, including influenza. It works effectively, hence every year I take zinc, and we all drink it daily, leading to fewer sicknesses.
9
Reduces flu symptoms
3 people found this helpful
Good! I took it to boost my immunity with vitamin C, and it reduces hair fall. This product enhances immunity during flu season, alleviating symptoms and shortening illness duration. I highly recommend it.
9
Symptom relief
A good product. Zinc effectively strengthens the immune system. I take it at the first sign of a cold or flu, and all my symptoms vanish. It’s best to use it in courses.
9
Improved health
1 people found this helpful
My mother is 78 years old and previously suffered from colds and pneumonia. We now give her Zinc Glycinate. Her health has significantly improved; she hasn't had colds, flu, or pneumonia since. We're pleased with the results and recommend Zinc from Now Foods.
9
Long-term benefits
Excellent! This zinc has saved me and my husband more than once. I’ve found that if you take zinc long-term, it's wise to also add copper, as zinc can deplete copper in the body. I take zinc in the morning and copper in the evening.
7.5
Flu symptoms mild
One to two capsules are sufficient daily, and they are easy to swallow. The family caught the flu; I only had a runny nose, likely due to this zinc. If you find my review helpful, please click YES!
9
Excellent absorption
An excellent product! One of the best zinc preparations! Zinc glycinate is well absorbed by the body. I take it to support my immunity on my gastroenterologist's advice. I am very satisfied with the results and take it twice a year. For the past two years, no one in my family has suffered from flu or colds.
9
Excellent support
Great! It is very effective in assisting the immune system during colds and flu when taken with vitamin C. The capsules are small, but there is a good quantity.
8
In our evaluation of how zinc can impact flu symptoms, we observed a study that examined the effects of gargling with an antimicrobial mouthwash containing zinc and cetylpyridinium chloride.
A total of 150 individuals participated, divided into two groups: one group followed a regular oral hygiene routine with fluoride toothpaste, while the other group followed the same routine but added gargling with a mouthwash containing 0.075% zinc.
The results revealed that regular gargling with this mouthwash helped reduce the frequency and severity of upper respiratory symptoms, with participants using the mouthwash showing a 21.5% lower frequency and 11% reduced severity in symptoms.
However, it's important to note that the study did not isolate the effects of zinc, leaving questions about the specific contributions of this mineral to the overall findings. Therefore, while we can see that the mouthwash appears beneficial, we cannot definitively attribute its effects solely to zinc.
A total of 150 individuals participated, divided into two groups: one group followed a regular oral hygiene routine with fluoride toothpaste, while the other group followed the same routine but added gargling with a mouthwash containing 0.075% zinc.
The results revealed that regular gargling with this mouthwash helped reduce the frequency and severity of upper respiratory symptoms, with participants using the mouthwash showing a 21.5% lower frequency and 11% reduced severity in symptoms.
However, it's important to note that the study did not isolate the effects of zinc, leaving questions about the specific contributions of this mineral to the overall findings. Therefore, while we can see that the mouthwash appears beneficial, we cannot definitively attribute its effects solely to zinc.
8
We explored the role of zinc in supporting our immune system, especially in the fight against influenza. The studies suggest that zinc might be beneficial in reducing the viral load during flu infections.
Evidence shows that zinc can decrease the severity of symptoms associated with viral pneumonia, which is often a complication of influenza. Additionally, it appears to have a positive impact on the overall recovery process, potentially shortening the duration of illness.
We also noted that zinc may enhance the effectiveness of certain COVID-19 treatments, which gives further credence to its immune-boosting properties. However, the precise relationship between zinc levels and vaccine effectiveness, particularly for flu vaccines, remains complex and requires more investigation.
Ultimately, our understanding indicates that incorporating zinc into our regimen could provide an additional layer of defense against the flu virus while supporting our immune health.
Evidence shows that zinc can decrease the severity of symptoms associated with viral pneumonia, which is often a complication of influenza. Additionally, it appears to have a positive impact on the overall recovery process, potentially shortening the duration of illness.
We also noted that zinc may enhance the effectiveness of certain COVID-19 treatments, which gives further credence to its immune-boosting properties. However, the precise relationship between zinc levels and vaccine effectiveness, particularly for flu vaccines, remains complex and requires more investigation.
Ultimately, our understanding indicates that incorporating zinc into our regimen could provide an additional layer of defense against the flu virus while supporting our immune health.
9
We investigated the potential of zinc in combination with herbal polyphenols and copper to reduce the infectivity of respiratory RNA viruses, including the flu. This study is particularly timely due to the ongoing challenges posed by viruses like SARS-CoV-2, highlighting the need for effective therapeutic solutions.
Zinc ions are known to play a role in modulating viral RNA replication, which makes them an appealing option for decreasing viral loads and infectivity. However, a significant challenge is that the natural concentration of zinc in our cells is often too low for effective results. To tackle this, we combined zinc picolinate, a form of zinc that’s easier for the body to absorb, with a range of flavonoids—natural compounds renowned for their antioxidant properties and existing antiviral effects.
We ensured that these combinations were safe by assessing their impact on cultured cells, confirming that they didn’t harm cell viability. When tested further, our results revealed an impressive 50-95% reduction in viral genome replication levels across a variety of respiratory RNA viruses, including the flu virus, which suggests that this combination therapy could be promising in the fight against such illnesses.
Overall, our findings highlight an innovative approach to treating viral infections that is non-toxic, derived from nature, and may remain effective against emerging viral strains.
Zinc ions are known to play a role in modulating viral RNA replication, which makes them an appealing option for decreasing viral loads and infectivity. However, a significant challenge is that the natural concentration of zinc in our cells is often too low for effective results. To tackle this, we combined zinc picolinate, a form of zinc that’s easier for the body to absorb, with a range of flavonoids—natural compounds renowned for their antioxidant properties and existing antiviral effects.
We ensured that these combinations were safe by assessing their impact on cultured cells, confirming that they didn’t harm cell viability. When tested further, our results revealed an impressive 50-95% reduction in viral genome replication levels across a variety of respiratory RNA viruses, including the flu virus, which suggests that this combination therapy could be promising in the fight against such illnesses.
Overall, our findings highlight an innovative approach to treating viral infections that is non-toxic, derived from nature, and may remain effective against emerging viral strains.
References
- Muniz FWMG, Casarin M, Pola NM, Rösing CK, Silveira TMD, et al. Efficacy of regular gargling with a cetylpyridinium chloride plus zinc containing mouthwash can reduce upper respiratory symptoms. PLoS One. 2025;20:e0316807. 10.1371/journal.pone.0316807
- Nishi K, Yoshimoto S, Nishi S, Nishi T, Nishi R, et al. Epipharyngeal Abrasive Therapy Down-regulates the Expression of Cav1.2: A Key Molecule in Influenza Virus Entry. In Vivo. 2022;36:2357. 10.21873/invivo.12967
- Kreiser T, Zaguri D, Sachdeva S, Zamostiano R, Mograbi J, et al. Inhibition of Respiratory RNA Viruses by a Composition of Ionophoric Polyphenols with Metal Ions. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2022;15. 10.3390/ph15030377
- Nakashima A, Horio Y, Suzuki K, Isegawa Y. Antiviral Activity and Underlying Action Mechanism of Euglena Extract against Influenza Virus. Nutrients. 2021;13. 10.3390/nu13113911
- Sadeghsoltani F, Mohammadzadeh I, Safari MM, Hassanpour P, Izadpanah M, et al. Zinc and Respiratory Viral Infections: Important Trace Element in Anti-viral Response and Immune Regulation. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2022;200:2556. 10.1007/s12011-021-02859-z
