The human body doesn’t produce zinc—but it does need zinc to stay healthy.
From a men’s health perspective, zinc is all the more essential. This piece will offer a breakdown of the powerful trace mineral and its benefits for men.
Zinc: An Essential Trace Mineral
Zinc is a trace mineral integral to many facets of human health. From growth and immune function, to reproductive health, the benefits of this vital nutrient are expansive.
While both men and women need zinc for good health, zinc offers a number of benefits unique to men. The trace mineral assists the body in producing and regulating hormones like testosterone, for instance.
Other research has associated zinc deficiency with erectile dysfunction, thinning hair, and thyroid issues, among other health conditions.
Zinc and Male Sexual Wellness
Zinc plays an important role in the development of the male sex organs. Men deficient in zinc may have less developed testes.
In addition, zinc deficiency may result in male sexual health challenges. Getting enough zinc helps to produce sex hormones including testosterone and prolactin, and to create the prostatic fluid that carries semen. If you think you have a deficiency see your doctor before starting any supplements.
Researchers suggest that dietary zinc support a healthy male function. If you are experiencing sexual health issues and think you might not be getting enough zinc in your diet, contact your doctor about supplementation.
Zinc and Thyroid Health
Zinc encourages thyroid health by producing important hormones that oversee metabolism, development, and body temperature.
A key cofactor in thyroid function, the essential nutrient helps produce thyroid-releasing hormones (TRH) in the brain. TRH then communicates with the pituitary gland to produce thyroid-stimulating hormones (TSH).
A number of studies associate low zinc levels with low levels of the active thyroid hormone (T3), and a compromised ability to convert thyroxine (t4) into T3. Alcohol use can exacerbate these issues, making supplementation a key consideration for those who drink regularly.
Zinc and Prostate Health
The prostate contains more zinc than any other bodily tissue except for bone. As men age, they face an increased risk of prostate health conditions.
Clinicians have found that zinc can help maintain and even improve prostate health. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University found that unhealthy prostate tissue features significantly less zinc than healthy tissue.
With that, men should consume ingredients rich in zinc or take zinc supplements to make sure they’re getting enough of the mineral. This will help support a healthy prostate.
Zinc and Male Pattern Baldness Prevention
Zinc could be the answer for helping to support healthy hair growth. One study found that men who ate lean meat were less likely to experience baldness than those who preferred fattier cuts, as the former encouraged better zinc absorption.
Whether you’re looking at minor thinning of the hair or complete baldness, getting enough zinc may well keep your hair thick and healthy. Granted, male pattern baldness is often hereditary—but there are instances that baldness is linked to mineral deficiency. Zinc can accelerate hair growth by strengthening immune function.
If you don’t eat meat, there’s no need to worry. Zinc supplements can support a healthy head of hair. Just be sure to talk to your healthcare provider about the safest way to go about this process. If you think you have a zinc deficiency see you doctor before starting any zinc supplementation.
Recommended Zinc Intake for Men
The recommended daily amount of zinc is 11 milligrams (mg) for adult men.
To prevent side effects or even toxicity, the National Institutes of Health warns adults to consume no more than 40 mg of zinc each day.
Zinc is found in foods like oysters, which feature more zinc per serving than any other ingredient, as well as poultry, dairy products, beans, greens, nuts, crab and lobster, whole grains, and fortified cereals.
Mineral supplements are also available for those who may be deficient in this important trace mineral. Before taking a zinc supplement, men with sexual health issues in particular should talk extensively with their healthcare provider. They may need to test their testosterone levels to determine whether supplementation is needed.
Now, there are several guidelines involving zinc supplementation that are unique to sexual health problems in men. Men who are thinking about taking zinc supplements should explore all their options and potential doses before making a decision.
Introducing Zinc for Men’s Health
Men benefit significantly from getting enough zinc, especially as they age. If you feel you might not be absorbing enough zinc from the foods you eat, speak with your doctor about supplementation. Balanced Health Ionic Zinc Complex drops are formulated with essential trace minerals like copper and magnesium, resulting in a number of health benefits for men.
The liquid drops are a more bioavailable form of zinc sulfate, bypassing the gut for better absorption. Vegan, gluten, and dairy-free, they’re considered more effective than pills, capsules and tablets.1 The drops are also free from artificial flavors, not to mention a clinically-recommended way to elevate men’s health.
Our Ionic Zinc Complex supplement features 30 doses per bottle, with natural glycerin and peppermint adding flavor without compromising health. A reminder that before you start a new supplement, you will want to talk to your doctor. Your healthcare provider can point you in the right direction, guiding you through your options and helping to evaluate the potential risks involved in supplementation. They’ll also give you even more insight into the benefits of zinc from a men’s health standpoint.
So, are you ready to get started on your path to better health? Do you have questions about zinc supplements for men’s health, or about supplementation in general? Please contact us for more information.
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1 These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.