Zinc is an essential mineral for human body. It is the second most prevalent mineral in human body after iron. Zinc works as a catalyst for proper functioning of over 300 enzymes and is needed for proper physiological activity.

A healthy normal adult needs about 11-14 mg zinc every day which is available from regular food items. All protein foods contain zinc. Zinc is one of the most important elements that keeps the immune system functional.

To replenish zinc, we need to eat zinc-rich food everyday. Because zinc is not stored in our body and the excess amount is excreted out. Unfortunately most poor people in our country cannot get the required amount every day. Therefore zinc deficiency is common them. This becomes more acute during diarrhoea.

During diarrhoea, our body loses a lot of water and minerals. As a result, the body is dehydrated and deficient in zinc. In our country each year many children die because of diarrhoea. However, many of them could be saved by simple treatment.

Oral rehydration saline (ORS) and zinc treatment can quickly help bodies to recover. Using zinc along with ORS in the treatment reduces the chance of getting diarrhoea again in the next three months.

Oral saline and Zinc tablets are now available everywhere. The price is within the reach of common people. No prescription is needed for oral saline and Zinc tablets. ORS is discontinued when diarrhoea is cured, but Zinc tablets need to be continued for ten days at once daily dose.

Take one zinc tablet in a spoon, add appropriate amount of water, then slowly move the spoon. Within one minute the tablet will dissolve that can be easily administrated.

At extreme sickness, children may vomit after the administration of Zinc tablet. There is no reason to get worried if vomiting occurs. After two hours when the child is stable, administer another tablet. There is less chance of vomiting for the second time.