The Relation Between Zinc and Erectile Dysfunction
Zinc plays a vital role in the erectile function of a male.
Low zinc levels can lead to reduced testosterone production, poor sperm quality, and hormonal imbalances.
Dealing with all these factors can contribute to erectile dysfunction (ED) or impotence.
So, it becomes essential to maintain an adequate zinc level, which may help support sexual health and performance.
Zinc is a key mineral that affects several aspects of male sexual health, including hormone regulation and reproductive function.
Let's explore how zinc influences erections, what the research says, and whether zinc supplements help manage or prevent ED.
Read on to know more.
What Is Zinc and Why Does the Body Need It?
Zinc is an essential mineral vital for many bodily functions.
It helps produce testosterone, supports over 300 enzymatic reactions, and boosts immune health.
For men, zinc is especially important for hormone balance and reproductive function.
The recommended daily intake is 11 mg for adult men and 8 mg for women, though this can vary based on age, diet, and health status.
Does Zinc Deficiency Affect Erectile Function?
The deficiency of Zinc can lower testosterone levels, which can directly affect a male's erectile function, libido and overall sexual performance.
Zinc in the body supports nitric oxide products, a key molecule supporting erectile function.
During the release of nitric oxide, the smooth muscle cells of blood vessels relax in the penile region to allow enough blood to cause an erection of penis.
Without adequate zinc, hormonal balance and vascular function may decline, and this can increase the risk of erectile dysfunction.
What Are the Symptoms of Zinc Deficiency Related to Sexual Health?
A man dealing with Zinc deficiency can lead to several sexual health issues.
It may include symptoms like:
- Reduced libido or low sexual desire
- Difficulty maintaining firm erections(weak erections)
- Fatigue and mood issues
Experiencing the above-listed symptoms may impact your sexual desire and performance.
What Scientific Studies Say on Zinc and Erectile Dysfunction?
Scientific research shows a strong link between zinc and testosterone, which is essential for erectile function.
Clinical studies suggest that zinc supplements may help improve erectile dysfunction, particularly in men with low testosterone or zinc levels.
This highlights zinc’s potential role in supporting sexual health.
What are the Risk Factors for Zinc Deficiency?
People with the following conditions are more likely to face the risk of zinc deficiency.
- Eating disorders
- Gastrointestinal diseases
- A purely vegetarian or low-protein diet
- High levels of alcohol consumption
Some medications are also known to reduce zinc levels in the body.
These include drugs like ACE inhibitors, stomach acid reducers like Prilosec, and thiazide diuretics.
Can Zinc Supplementation Help Treat Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction (ED) isn't always linked to low testosterone.
Other health conditions like heart disease, nerve disorders, diabetes, injuries, and stress are often seen as causes of ED.
However, low testosterone or hypogonadism, sometimes due to zinc deficiency, can also lead to ED.
Zinc supplements can help improve ED in men with a deficiency by supporting natural testosterone production.
Some men use zinc alone or alongside medications like Viagra or Cialis to boost results and improve erectile function.
Zinc Supplements
Zinc supplements can help restore zinc levels, but it's important to consult a doctor before starting them.
Adult men should aim for 11 mg of zinc daily, while women should limit intake to 8 mg.
A high-protein diet can also provide zinc.
For example, foods like beef, lamb, pork, chicken, nuts, legumes, whole grains, and yeast are good sources of Zinc.
Moreover, Supplements that include Zinc are multivitamins, zinc sulfate, acetate, gluconate, and orotate.
Are There Risks of Taking Too Much Zinc?
Taking more zinc than recommended can cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhoea, and headaches.
The maximum safe daily intake is 40 mg, according to the CDC.
If you experience symptoms after taking too much zinc, contact a doctor and seek medical advice.
Also, consider using a zinc supplement under professional advice.
Final Lines:
Zinc is distributed all over our body, so it isn't easy to test its levels through a blood test.
If you face erectile dysfunction and suspect that you might have a zinc deficiency, then talk to a healthcare professional.
A medical professional or a doctor can check your testosterone levels.
Also, they will determine whether using zinc supplements may help improve your ED symptoms.
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For an adult male, 11 mg of Zinc per day is usually considered the ideal dosage; for women, the zinc intake suggests 8 mg per day. However, Increasing testosterone with zinc supplementation does not always show signs of improvement for Ed, and increased Libido when zinc levels are well established.
The best source of Zinc is oysters, but it is also in good amounts in red Meat and poultry. Some other good sources of Zinc are nuts, beans, lobster, crab, breakfast cereals, whole grains and dairy products.
Zinc is best taken with food to reduce stomach upset, ideally at the same time each day for consistency.
Results may vary, but improvements may be noticed within weeks to a few months of consistent Zinc supplementation to improve ED symptoms.
Zinc may help improve ED in men with low testosterone or zinc deficiency, but it’s not a cure for ED.