Men’s Sexual Health And Zinc: Increase Zinc Intake With Food

What is the role of zinc in the body?

Zinc is a microelement, that is, a mineral present in the body in small quantities. In an adult individual there are about 2 grams which are important for billions of chemical reactions involved in the metabolism of proteins, lipids, carbohydrates and nucleic acids. It is also necessary for the functioning of different hormones, including those of the thyroid gland, insulin, sex hormones and growth hormone. Its presence is important both for stabilizing membranes and other cellular components, and for the structure and integrity of organs. It is essential for cell division and for growth and development during pregnancy, childhood and adolescence. It is also involved in DNA synthesis, gene expression, immune response, wound healing and tissue repair. Finally, he is involved in the perception of taste and smell.

In which foods is zinc present?

Zinc is found mainly in oysters, yeast, liver, meat, eggs, fish, cereals, milk and its derivatives. However, the body is able to absorb only a variable portion between 20 and 30% of the quantities present in food. Furthermore, the one present in vegetables is in a less available and more difficult to absorb form. The reference value for the daily requirement of zinc is 15 mg.

Zinc: sexual health benefits

Zinc is an excellent ally for male sexuality: in fact it stimulates the production of testosterone, which increases the functionality of the seminal vesicles and the prostate, improving the relationship and potentially increasing the amount of semen available. It is not enough to take a zinc supplement to fight erectile dysfunction, but in combination with pharmaceutical drugs, zinc will propel the effects of tadalafil and create a setting for better health outcomes.

What are the consequences of zinc deficiency? It is rare that a zinc deficiency can have serious consequences. However, insufficient intake of this nutrient can lead to changes in the skin and hair loss, diarrhea, recurrent infections, psychological problems. In severe cases, a deficiency can lead to delays in sexual development and maturation, impotence or weight loss and compromise taste, smell and wound healing. In addition, a zinc deficiency can increase the risk of vitamin A deficiency.

What are the consequences of excess zinc? Taking excessive doses of zinc generally causes vomiting, nausea or diarrhea, irritability, drowsiness, anemia and dizziness. An excess of zinc accumulated over time can instead alter the metabolism of copper and iron, interfere with the health of red blood cells, reduce the level of some white blood cells and compromise immune functions. In addition, too much zinc can reduce HDL cholesterol, which is considered "good", affect the functioning of the heart and some pancreatic enzymes.