At this time, there is no hard evidence proving that zinc can help with COVID-19. High-dose zinc has been found to reduce how long cold symptoms last, and it is known to play a key role in supporting the immune system, but so far there hasn’t been enough research done to determine its impact on someone with coronavirus. Zinc is the second-most common trace mineral in our bodies, affecting all organs and cells. It’s an essential mineral that most Americans get plenty of in our diets by eating foods like beans, nuts, whole grains, red meat, poultry, and dairy. Zinc helps to strengthen the immune system and regulates metabolism, and if you’re eating foods regularly that contain zinc, you are likely getting enough to feel the positive impact of the mineral without needing to add an extra daily supplement. Those who are pregnant, as well as some infants and children, may be told by a physician to add a zinc supplement for extra care, but most of us who are healthy and follow a balanced diet are getting enough zinc. If a person isn’t zinc deficient, taking a zinc supplement likely won’t provide any additional protection. Experts have found that once you have the minimal of amount of zinc in your system, adding a supplement doesn’t necessarily mean your immune system is boosted even more. Because there is no hard evidence to support an argument that zinc can protect against coronavirus, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sent warning letters to five different companies who were advertising that their zinc product could provide prevention and/or treatment of coronavirus, and the World Health Organization (WHO) agrees that more evidence is needed before we can count on zinc as a means of coronavirus prevention or protection. They do not recommend self-medication with any medicines, including antibiotics, as a prevention or cure for COVID-19. If you have already started taking a zinc supplement, and you’re getting enough zinc in your diet, please know that too much zinc can be harmful. If you are experiencing diarrhea, headaches, nausea, loss of appetite, stomach cramps and/or vomiting, it could be a sign of too much zinc. If you’re consuming too much zinc for a long period of time, it can actually lower your immunity, among other negative side effects. Always check with your doctor if you’re unsure or have concerns.