Abstract: A method for alleviating stress and/or stress related symptoms in humans and other warm-blooded animals particularly when such symptoms are complicated by intestinal malabsorption of minerals is disclosed. Chromium and, optionally, one or more other minerals selected from the group consisting of copper, zinc, manganese, iron and selenium are provided in the form of amino acid chelates having a ligand to mineral ratio of at least 1:1, a molecular weight of no more than 1500 and a stability constant of between about 10.sup.6 and 10.sup.16 and administered orally. They are absorbed from a portion of the intestinal tract other than that utilized for the absorption of cations. The method is particularly adapted to reducing and/or controlling levels of serum cortisol in humans or other animals. The presence of symptoms of stress may first be confirmed or the compositions may be administered as a prophylactic.

Abstract: A method for maintaining the immune system of a warm-blooded animal afflicted with a form of antigenic morbidity exacerbated by intestinal malabsorption of minerals is disclosed. Minerals selected from the group consisting of copper, zinc, manganese, iron and selenium are provided in the form of amino acid chelates having a ligand to mineral ratio of at least 1:1, a molecular weight of no more than 1500 and a stability constant of between about 10.sup.6 and 10.sup.16 and administered orally. They are absorbed from a portion of the intestinal tract other than that utilized for the absorption of cations. The method is particularly adapted to the maintaining of the immune system of a warm-blooded animal infected by a virus which compromises the absorption of trace minerals via the normal cationic absorption route. The presence of intestinal malabsorption in the host showing symptoms of antigenic morbidity is first confirmed.