If you have noticed that you tend to catch colds much more often than you used to, especially during autumn or winter, you might suffer from a zinc deficiency. Other symptoms include diarrhoea, loss of appetite, impotence and weight loss. Cheap suppleness containing zinc are often sold over-the counter. They usually contain other vitamins and minerals. It is important not to take too much zinc as this can cause iron malabsorption, leading to anaemia. It can also lead to copper deficiency, which is often the starting point of problems with urinary tract. Before you decide to take any pills, think what you can do to increase the intake of zinc with your food. Red meat, especially liver, is an excellent source. There are some vegetarian alternatives, of course. Have you ever tried alfalfa sprouts? It"s easy to buy some seeds and sprout them at home. It"s an excellent source of zinc and other important minerals as well. If you don"t like sprouts, try including more wholemeal bread in your diet, as well as beans, nuts, almonds and sunflower seeds. If you still think you might need supplementation, buy some cheap supplements but remember not to take more than necessary as high doses can be dangerous for your health!