Abstract
Question Gastroenteritis with diarrhea is a common condition in children, potentially leading to dehydration, morbidity, and in some countries substantial mortality. Is there a role for zinc supplementation in these cases?
Answer Zinc can be found in a variety of foods, and in Canada some foods are fortified with zinc. Zinc supplementation was shown to be a safe and effective measure to shorten diarrhea-related illness in children and to possibly reduce other complications including death. Although the World Health Organization recommends a daily dose of zinc for 10 to 14 days to manage acute diarrhea in children, Canadian children who eat a regular diet do not need such supplementation.
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