Question

some research suggests that individuals who take both vitamin c and zinc at the onset of the common cold experience fewer cold symptoms and recover more quickly than individuals who do not take these nutrients. what is the best explanation of why vitamin c and zinc could reduce the intensity and duration of the common cold? a. vitamin c and zinc are required for the absorption of vitamin k, which is needed for wound recovery. b. vitamin c and zinc are required for the absorption of iron, which is needed by the immune system. c. both vitamin c and zinc are involved in wound recovery. d. both vitamin c and zinc are involved in immune system functions.

Explanation:

To determine the best explanation, we analyze each option:

• Option A: Vitamin K is not related to the common cold, so this is incorrect.
• Option B: Iron absorption is not the main factor in reducing cold symptoms/duration, so this is incorrect.
• Option C: Wound recovery is not the focus of reducing cold symptoms, so this is incorrect.
• Option D: Vitamin C and zinc are known to support immune system functions. A stronger immune system can fight off the cold virus more effectively, leading to fewer symptoms and faster recovery. This aligns with the research finding.

Answer:

D. Both vitamin C and zinc are involved in immune system functions.