Zinc supplementation for childhood diarrhea has been shown to do which of the following?

• A. It has no significant effect on stool output or duration
• B. Reduces duration, risk of hospitalization, and mortality
• C. Causes increased duration of diarrhea
• D. Is only effective in high-income settings

Answer: (B)

Zinc helps the body repair and maintain the gut lining and supports immune function during a diarrheal illness. This translates into real clinical benefits: the diarrhea tends to be shorter, the amount of stool is reduced, and the child is less likely to progress to dehydration severe enough to require hospitalization. For many settings, especially where diarrhea-related mortality is higher, zinc also lowers the risk of death from diarrhea. Because these benefits have been consistently demonstrated across diverse populations, zinc supplementation is recommended for children with acute diarrhea, not just in high-income settings. That combination of shorter illness, fewer hospitalizations, and reduced mortality is why this option is the best.