Zinc is the transition metal of the week.
For years I have heard people prescribe zinc for cold prevention in the for of lozenges or added to vitamin C packets. It is interesting to think that it is a metal harvested from the surface of the earth.
I found info. on the International Zinc Association website, which prior to this week end I had no idea existed.

Zinc is essential for the proper functioning of plant, animal and human life.
Zinc can be obtained from a host of animal meats and various cereals and vegetables.
As with many other essential trace elements too much zinc can be cause problems as can a zinc deficiency.

Zn

Atomic number= 30
30 protons
30 electrons
35 neutrons

According to the International Zinc Association, zinc has the strongest effect on the immune system. It helps the immune system by supporting the T cells.