The relationship between Low level of Testosterone and Zinc deficiency

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One of the challenges of male infertility is hormonal imbalance. One of the male hormones responsible for stimulating, enhancing and sustaining of sex drive is testosterone. The hormone also plays significant role in muscular and bone development. The level of testosterone reaches its peak in the in the course of early adulthood, however, decline sets in at a time as part of the natural aging process.

Nutritional deficiency in Zinc has been found to be one of the several factors responsible for lower range of testosterone.

Causes

While testosterone levels decline naturally with age, however, other factors that may contribute to a declining testosterone include obesity, testicular injury, genetic disorders, exposure to cancer treatment, inflammatory diseases.

Symptoms

Tiredness and fatigue
Reduction of muscle mass
Reduced sexual urge
Erectile dysfunction

Zinc and Low level testosterone

One of the vital minerals in the body is Zinc which is responsible for the efficient functioning of the immune systems, breaking down of food and other nutrients, production of essential proteins and regulation of cell divisions in the body. It is found in certain foods and as supplements in drugs.

Zinc insufficiency often lead low testosterone. This is so because the mineral deficiency may disrupt the working of the cells in the testes that produce and secrete testosterone.

Studies on the effectiveness of zinc for low testosterone are scanty. A study on the effects of magnesium and zinc supplement found that men who received 30 milligrams of zinc per day showed increased levels of free testosterone in their bodies. It is interesting to know that another study revealed that using a zinc supplement will not increase testosterone levels if one is already has adequate amount of the mineral.

Sources of Zinc
The major source of Zinc is food, the other being drugs supplement. The following foods contain high level of zinc, beef, crab, cereal and bread, beans, chicken, nuts, yogurt and oatmeal as well as dietary supplements.
Vulnerable group
The following people are susceptible to having zinc deficiency, namely:
People with gastrointestinal disorder
Vegetarians
People who consume excessive alcohol
Older people
People with sickle cell

Seeking Medical Help
Excessive intake and presence of zinc in the body has its serious complications like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and so on. It is important and high advisable to seek medical assistance from a doctor who will be able to make proper and needed dosage for you.