Benefits of zinc for men and their sexual health


Is zinc deficiency a health condition that requires attention? In fact, zinc is an essential element in the human body, especially for men, due to its direct impact on sexual ability and erection. So, let's review together in Dalili Medical the benefits of zinc for men, its harms, and symptoms of its deficiency. Zinc is one of the vital minerals that play an important role in promoting the health of the body, as it affects the immune system, sexual function, and mental health. It is necessary to pay special attention to men's health by spreading awareness about the importance of eating a healthy diet rich in essential nutrients, and visiting the doctor periodically to conduct the necessary examinations. It is also recommended to include zinc in the diet or take it as nutritional supplements.

When do zinc pills start to affect sex?

 

A person does not feel an actual improvement as a result of taking zinc pills until after a month, as their effect lasts for a long time.

What is the relationship between zinc and sleep?

 

There is a direct relationship between zinc and sleep, as the more you maintain a sufficient level of zinc in the body, the greater the body's ability to produce melatonin, which is the hormone responsible for regulating sleep.

What is the appropriate dose for zinc supplements?

 

The ideal dose for adult males is 11 milligrams per day, while the daily dose for women is preferably limited to 8 milligrams. Protein is the main source of zinc, so a diet rich in protein often contains sufficient amounts of it. Meats such as beef, lamb, and chicken are good sources of zinc, in addition to nuts, whole grains, legumes, and yeast, which also contain appropriate amounts of it, so it is recommended to eat them in moderate amounts.

**Benefits of zinc for sexual health**

Zinc is an essential mineral that has many health benefits, the most prominent of which are the benefits related to sexual health, which can be summarized as follows:

**Increased production of sex hormones**: Zinc contributes to enhancing the production of testosterone in men, which is the main hormone responsible for sexual desire and normal sexual functions.

. **Supporting prostate health**: Zinc plays an important role in maintaining prostate health, as it helps reduce the risk of prostatitis and enlargement, which are two common problems among men.

. **Improving sperm quality**: Zinc helps improve sperm quality and increase sperm count, which increases men's chances of conception.

. **Enhancing sexual performance**: Zinc contributes to improving sexual performance, reduces erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation, and enhances sexual pleasure and arousal.

However, it should be noted that taking zinc in excessive amounts may cause negative side effects, so it is always advisable to consult a doctor before taking any nutritional supplements or making changes to your diet.

**Increasing testosterone** There is a clear relationship between zinc deficiency in the body and low testosterone levels in men, as zinc deficiency is believed to negatively affect the production of this hormone.

In another aspect of the study that addressed the benefits of zinc for men, zinc supplements were given to elderly men, which led to a significant increase in their testosterone levels. This is strong evidence of the effect of zinc in the production of this hormone. It is important to note that zinc therapy is slightly different from other drug treatments, as zinc supplements only improve the body's natural testosterone levels if the person suffers from a zinc deficiency. A German study conducted in 2007 on 14 men who consumed the recommended amounts of zinc in their diet showed that using zinc supplements would not increase testosterone levels if the person was getting enough zinc through their diet.

**Treatment of erectile dysfunction**

Zinc deficiency is one of the factors that contribute to the problem of erectile dysfunction in men, as its deficiency can lead to hypogonadism and low levels of testosterone, which causes sexual dysfunction in some individuals. One of the important benefits of zinc is that it is an essential element in the development of male reproductive organs and enhancing their performance. Therefore, taking zinc supplements is one of the treatment options that may help treat sexual dysfunction, through its role in enhancing the production of testosterone and prolactin, in addition to its contribution to the formation of the basic components of prostatic fluid.

The relationship between zinc and sexual function has been tested, and zinc has a positive effect on arousal and maintaining erections in males. Rats that received zinc supplements at a dose of 5 mg per day showed an improvement in their sexual performance.

Zinc pills are useful in treating sexual dysfunction, especially in people with chronic kidney disease. However, it should be noted that low testosterone levels resulting from zinc deficiency are not the only cause of erectile dysfunction, as there are other factors such as heart disease, diabetes, nervous system problems, and psychological stress.

**Increased fertility**The benefits of zinc for men are multiple, as it plays a fundamental role in the reproduction and division of sperm. It is believed that zinc deficiency can hinder sperm production and lead to their deformities. In addition, zinc acts as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, which helps sperm stay alive until they reach the egg. Zinc has a positive effect on male fertility in several ways, as it is essential for the functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, which stimulates the gonads to secrete sex hormones, which contributes to the growth, reproduction and maturation of sperm.

**Enhancing sperm motility**The prostate gland contains a high concentration of zinc compared to the rest of the body's tissues and fluids, which is an indicator of its health and function. The prostate plays an important role in regulating the functions ofZinc is essential for sperm production, as it acts as a cofactor in most enzymatic reactions and contributes to maintaining sperm motility. Therefore, using biological zinc supplements is an effective way to treat male infertility resulting from chronic prostatitis or inflammation. Zinc and albumin secreted by the prostate gland also contribute to protecting sperm. Moreover, biological zinc therapy has a positive effect on sperm motility, as poor sperm motility is one of the main causes of male infertility.

**Reducing the risk of prostate cancer** Zinc is an essential element in maintaining prostate health and preventing prostate cancer. Research conducted by scientists from Johns Hopkins University has shown that prostate tissue affected by cancer contains lower amounts of zinc than healthy prostate tissue.

People, especially the elderly, who suffer from low levels of zinc are more likely to develop conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia, prostatitis, and prostate cancer.

Therefore, introducing zinc into the diet and maintaining its levels can contribute to reducing the risk of prostate cancer.

**Building Muscle** Zinc is an important nutrient for men, especially bodybuilders, as it contributes to enhancing muscle growth and development. Zinc accelerates the chemical reactions necessary to build muscle in the body. In addition, zinc plays a role in stabilizing protein structures and regulating hormone levels, which contributes to the process of synthesizing and renewing muscle protein, especially after performing resistance exercises.

**Preventing baldness and hair loss** Low zinc levels can lead to hair loss, whether mild or severe, or even baldness. Therefore, zinc supplements help prevent sudden hair loss or baldness, especially in men who do not follow a diet that contains sufficient amounts of zinc. Zinc can also stimulate hair growth. The recommended daily dose of zinc to treat hair loss is between 50 and 100 mg.

**Treatment of acne**

Zinc is an essential element for skin health, as its deficiency in the body can lead to the appearance of some types of acne. Therefore, taking zinc supplements or using topical ointments containing zinc can have a positive effect in treating and preventing acne. In addition, zinc has anti-inflammatory properties, which helps reduce inflammation associated with acne, and also contributes to reducing sebum production and fighting the bacteria that cause this condition. However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dose of zinc in case of deficiency.

**What is a zinc test?**

 

A zinc test is performed by taking a blood or urine sample to determine the level of zinc in the body.

The normal level of zinc in the blood ranges between 0.66 and 1.10 micrograms per milliliter. If the level is less than 0.65, this indicates a zinc deficiency in the patient.

**Should zinc pills be taken before or after meals?**

 

Zinc supplements are most effective when taken at least an hour before or two hours after meals. However, if the supplements cause stomach upset, they can be taken with food.

**Does zinc cause constipation?**

 

Yes, zinc can cause constipation in some people.

Where can zinc be found in fruits?

 

Zinc is found in some fruits such as avocado, blackberries, pomegranate, guava, cantaloupe, apricot, and peach.

Does zinc contribute to skin lightening?

 

Zinc is not an effective factor in lightening skin color, but it can be used with lightening creams to treat pigmentation.

What is the recommended daily amount of zinc for the body?

 

Women need 8 mg of zinc daily, while adult men need 11 mg.

Does zinc lead to weight gain?

 

No, zinc does not cause weight gain. On the contrary, its deficiency in the body may lead to weight gain, because it is necessary for the thyroid gland to function and produce hormones necessary for metabolism.

**Are zinc tablets used for weight loss?**

 

Taking zinc supplements with a low-calorie diet can help reduce insulin resistance and reduce appetite in obese people.

**Best types of zinc pills for men**

There are many types of zinc pills available on the market, but choosing the right type depends on the man's needs and health condition. Here are some common types of zinc pills that may be suitable for men:

- **Life Extension Zinc Capsules**: These capsules are made from natural sources and are gluten-free, making them one of the most absorbable types in the body.

- **12th Century Zinc**: These capsules contain a high percentage of zinc, and are often used to treat zinc deficiency in the body, in addition to containing calcium, which enhances bone health.

- **Nature’s Way Zinc Capsules**: These capsules are known for their ability to enhance the absorption of zinc in the body, and are considered especially beneficial for vegetarians who suffer from general weakness. There are also zinc complex pills that contain a combination of zinc and other vitamins and minerals that support overall health.

**Benefits of Zinc Pills for Men**

. **Immunity Booster**: Zinc is an essential element for ensuring the proper functioning of the immune system, as its deficiency can lead to multiple health problems, including an increased risk of infection such as pneumonia.

. **Diarrhea Treatment**: Zinc helps speed up the recovery process from diarrhea.

. **Accelerate wound healing**: People with chronic wounds are recommended to take zinc supplements, as they help repair the skin and reduce the risk of infections.

**Reduces the risk of chronic diseases**: Zinc has antioxidant properties, which helpsHelps reduce oxidative stress and thus reduce the risk of diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

. **Prevent age-related macular degeneration**: Zinc helps protect the cells of the retina and delay the development of macular degeneration, which can lead to vision loss with age.

. **Treat skin diseases**: Zinc can relieve skin problems such as acne and hidradenitis suppurativa.

. **Prevent osteoporosis**: Zinc plays an important role in promoting bone health and preventing osteoporosis, although its effectiveness in treating these conditions is still unclear.

**Relieve neurological symptoms**: Zinc can help relieve neurological symptoms, which include peripheral neuropathy, tingling, and headaches.

**Treat colds**: Zinc may shorten the duration of colds and the symptoms they cause, and may also protect against future colds.

What are the side effects of zinc pills?

 

"If you overdo it, it can be counterproductive." Zinc supplements are essential, and taking them can help treat many health conditions. However, it is necessary to adhere to the dosage prescribed by your doctor to avoid side effects and potential risks. You should be aware that you may experience some minor side effects after taking zinc pills, such as:

- Nausea

- Vomiting

- Diarrhea

- Stomach pain

- Fever

- Cough

- Headache

Among the damages that may result from an increased dose of zinc are:

- Reducing the body's ability to absorb copper over time, which may lead to a deficiency of this essential mineral.

- Reducing the absorption of some antibiotics, which affects their effectiveness if taken at the same time.

If you experience any side effects, it is best to consult your doctor after taking zinc pills and sticking to the recommended dosage.

What are the signs of zinc deficiency in the body?

 

Skin changes resembling eczema are common symptoms of zinc deficiency, with cracks often appearing around the mouth and hands, and not improving with the use of moisturizers. Other symptoms that people with zinc deficiency may experience include:

- Hair loss.

- Weak nails.

- Diarrhea.

- Infections.

- Loss of appetite.

- Eye problems.

- Decreased sexual ability.

- Weight loss.

- Long healing time for wounds.

- Weak sense of smell and taste.

**Benefits and harms of zinc for men**

1. **Digestive disorders**: Taking high doses of zinc may lead to digestive problems, such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite.

2. **Fetal abnormalities**: Pregnant women are advised to avoid taking high doses of zinc, as this can cause fetal abnormalities.

3. **Nervous system disorders**: High doses of zinc can lead to nervous system problems, such as headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and anxiety.

4. **Low copper levels**: Taking large amounts of zinc may lead to low copper levels in the body, which negatively affects the functions of some vital enzymes.

5. **Interactions with medications**: Zinc supplements can interact with some medications, such as antibiotics and diuretics, which may affect the effectiveness of these medications.