🌟 Benefits of Zinc in Treating Diarrhea in Children:
1. Shortens the Duration of Diarrhea
Studies have shown that zinc supplementation can reduce the duration of diarrhea by 1 to 2 days, helping children recover faster.
2. Reduces Severity of Symptoms
Zinc helps decrease the frequency of stools and the amount of watery diarrhea.
3. Prevents Future Episodes
Using zinc during a diarrhea episode can lower the risk of new episodes within the next 2–3 months.
4. Supports the Immune System
Zinc is essential for a child’s immune function and helps the body fight intestinal infections.
How to Use Zinc (According to WHO Guidelines):
Children under 6 months:
10 mg daily for 10 to 14 days.
Children 6 months to 5 years:
20 mg daily for 10 to 14 days.
Zinc is usually given as oral drops (dropper) and is best taken with or after food to reduce stomach irritation.
Important Notes:
Zinc should not be used alone. It must be given along with Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS).
Mild side effects like nausea or slight stomach irritation may occur. Giving zinc after meals can help.
Keep out of reach of children, and follow the dosage as directed by your healthcare provider.
Zinc supplementation can be beneficial in managing diarrhea, particularly in children. It can shorten the duration and reduce the severity of diarrheal episodes, and may also help prevent future occurrences. The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF recommend daily zinc supplements for children with diarrhea