Thursday, January 08, 2009 by: Sheryl Walters
Tags: zinc, health news, Natural News
Zinc is an integral part of the male hormonal system, and a primary part of the
semen. It plays a major role in the production of sperm. Studies also reveal
that Zinc Deficiency may be a cause of Prostate Enlargement.
As men age into their 50s and older, there is a natural decline in zinc. A zinc
deficiency can lead to prostate enlargement, as well as a number of other male
problems including impotency. This is because the prostate tissues are highly
dependent on zinc to maintain its health and integrity. Zinc increases sperm
count and sperm motility. High zinc levels also mean lower levels of estrogen
and prolactin thereby reducing the risk of prostate disease.
Adequate zinc also prevents the formation of dihyrotestosterone (DHT). When
testosterone levels decline, the prostate gland converts the testosterone to
dihydrotestosterone. This testosterone is 17 times more potent than
testosterone. Unfortunately DHT breaks down testosterone causing a range of
problems including prostate enlargement, potentially prostate cancer, and even
male baldness since it can damage the hair follicles.
This makes zinc an essential nutrient for overall male health on multiple
levels.
Scientific Studies and zinc
Irving Bush, M.D., senior consultant at the Center for Study of Genitourinary
Diseases in West Dundee, Illinois, and former chairman of the Food and Drug
Administration panels on gastroenterology, urology and dialysis, studied the
effects of zinc on enlarged prostates. Nineteen men with enlarged prostates took
150 milligrams of zinc sulfate every day for two months, followed
by 50 to 100 milligrams a day as a maintenance dose. 14 of the 19 men
experienced shrinkage of the prostate.
Another study at the University of Edinburgh Medical School in Scotland
discovered high doses of zinc inhibited the activity of the enzyme that converts
testosterone to dihydrotestosterone in test tube prostate tissues. As discussed
above, dihydrotestosterone can be a major cause of prostate enlargement.
Food sources of zinc
Oysters are naturally high in zinc. One of the best sources of zinc is pumpkin
seeds. Pumpkin seeds can relieve frequency, urgency, night time urination and
dribbling associated with enlarged prostate.
If taking a supplement, approximately 80 milligrams is suggested to help an
enlarged prostate, but seeing a practitioner for individual treatment may be a
good idea. Too much zinc is potentially toxic as it can lead to a mineral
imbalance, meaning that it can absorb other minerals, leading to anemia and
immunity problems.
http://www.healingdaily.com/conditions/enlar...