World of Medicine

Zinc Can Cut Colds Short

Zinc isn’t the cure for the common cold, but mounting evidence indicates it can be a big help. An analysis of three randomised controlled trials found that 70 per cent of patients who had taken zinc acetate lozenges (80 to 92 mg per day) within 24 hours of noticing cold symptoms had recovered on the fifth day, compared with 27 per cent of patients who had received a placebo. While that dosage is higher than the daily recommended amount, no serious side effects were observed. Be sure your zinc lozenge doesn’t also contain citric acid, which can make it less effective.

Dairy Helps Fight Early Menopause

Calcium and vitamin D have long been known to work together to build strong bones. Now scientists have discovered that they may also play a role in preventing early menopause, which is associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis, heart disease and other health issues. In a study of 116,430 premenopausal women, those who got the most calcium and vitamin D from food – especially dairy – had the lowest risk of early menopause. Supplements did not have any beneficial effect, perhaps because they lack the other vitamins, fats and hormones (such as progesterone and oestrogen) found in dairy.

Driving Can Lower Your IQ

In a recent study of approximately 500,000 people between ages 37 and 73, researchers found a noticeable drop-off in brainpower, as measured by intelligence and memory tests, among those who drove for more than two hours each day. The study also found that the more time participants spent watching TV, which, like driving, fails to exercise either the body or the brain – the worse their test scores. If you must drive long distances to work, consider adding a mentally stimulating activity to your commute, such as listening to language lessons.