As the weather changes, everyone is prone to colds and coughs. While we have all heard about the benefits of vitamin C for colds, few of us are aware of a secret solution – Zinc! Zinc is helpful as it can reduce the severity and duration of respiratory tract infections. It soothes sore throats with its anti-inflammatory properties. It plays a pivotal role in supporting various functions of the body like the immune system, wound healing and maintaining overall health. It prevents viruses from growing in the body. Zinc is also known to boost the immune system and fight infections. Notably, zinc is a vital mineral found in a variety of plant and animal foods. When consuming zinc-rich foods during a cough and cold, prioritise moderation and diversity in your diet. Include lean meats, poultry, sea food, dairy, nuts and seeds. Combine zinc-rich foods with vitamin C sources for enhanced immune support. Phytates, a substance found in unprocessed whole grains hinder the absorption of zinc, thereby making it less available for the body to utilise. Hence, vegetarians should follow some cooking techniques such as soaking them for 5-6 hours to reduce the phytate content and increase the bioavailability of zinc. Organic acids in fermented foods aid in higher absorption, so always include foods in your diet like buttermilk and yogurt along with some zinc-rich vegetarian sources. It is important to remember that a higher dosage of zinc supplement inhibits the absorption of other minerals. Therefore, it is always good to check with the healthcare professionals while taking supplements. Stay hydrated, choose cooking methods that preserve zinc, and be aware of factors like phytates affecting absorption.
To answer the question about the effects of combining zinc-rich foods with vitamin C based on the given comprehension, we need to analyze the relevant parts of the passage that relate to immunity. Let's break down the key points:
- Role of Zinc: The passage states that zinc can reduce the severity and duration of respiratory tract infections, soothe sore throats, and play a crucial role in supporting various body functions, including the immune system. It is crucial for fighting infections.
- Role of Vitamin C: Though not detailed explicitly in the passage, it is commonly understood and implied that vitamin C is known to support the immune system, which is why its benefit during colds is mentioned.
- Combining Zinc and Vitamin C: The passage advises combining zinc-rich foods with vitamin C sources for enhanced immune support. This demonstrates a synergistic effect that enhances immunity.
Based on the above analysis, combining zinc-rich foods with vitamin C will result in increased immunity. This is specifically mentioned in the passage as a means to enhance immune support.
Now, let's look at the options provided:
- reduced immunity.- This is incorrect because the passage supports the idea of increased, not reduced, immunity with zinc and vitamin C.
- increased immunity.- This is correct as per the passage, which mentions the combination for enhanced immune support.
- food allergy.- The passage does not mention any linkage between zinc, vitamin C, and causing food allergies. Thus, this is incorrect.
- a sore throat.- Though zinc can soothe sore throats, the combination with vitamin C is specifically mentioned in the context of enhanced immunity, not causing a sore throat or relating it directly.
Therefore, the correct answer is increased immunity.
Important Questions from Reading Comprehension
Why, according to the writer can't people be motivated to use a resource prudently?
1. They feel that others may overuse the resource
2. It is possible to substitute the resource
3. Abundance of the resource availability
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
When do people use resources exhaustively?
The self-interest of people affects the use of renewable resources
People rooted in a locality
Which among the following is closest in meaning with the word 'deplete'?
