What is the recommended zinc dose for children over 6 months of age with Acute Diarrhea?

The correct recommended zinc dose for children over 6 months of age with acute diarrhea is 20 mg for 14 days. This guideline is based on extensive studies that have shown that zinc supplementation can significantly reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea episodes in children.

Zinc plays a crucial role in maintaining immune function and promoting gut health, which is particularly important during episodes of acute diarrhea where the body may be more vulnerable to infections. The World Health Organization (WHO) and other health authorities endorse the use of zinc in the management of diarrhea because it not only helps in recovery but also provides a protective effect against future episodes of diarrhea.

Doses lower than 20 mg may not provide sufficient therapeutic benefits, as studies indicate that higher doses are associated with better outcomes in reducing diarrhea symptoms. Therefore, 20 mg is the optimal dose that balances efficacy and safety in treating acute diarrhea in this age group.