*ZINC FOR SEXUAL HEALTH* When it comes to sexual health, zinc is a top mineral, and plays a crucial role for both men and women. Why do you need zinc? A comprehensive breakdown 👇🏼 *WHAT IS ZINC?* Zinc is a trace mineral that is ESSENTIAL for human health. It is essential because the body cannot produce or store it, and so it must be gotten from outside sources. Zinc is so good, it plays a role in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, and helps the immune system function. *THE ROLE OF ZINC IN MALE SEXUAL HEALTH* Zinc improves men’s sexual health in 3 ways: - Production of testosterone - Supporting sperm health - Maintaining erectile function Did you know? Low zinc levels have been linked to reduced testosterone, which may reduce libido and sexual performance. Zinc supports sperm health by acting as an antioxidant, protecting it from oxidative stress. It also maintains healthy blood vessels and circulation, in turn improving erectile function. *ZINC AND FEMALE SEXUAL HEALTH* Zinc improves women’s sexual health in 3 ways: - Hormonal balance - Improving fertility outcomes - Increasing libido and arousal Zinc is important for regulating estrogen and progesterone, which are key hormones for sexual function. Adequate levels of zinc improves egg quality, and encourage ovulation. Additionally, zinc increases dopamine levels, which influences sexual desire and arousal. *ZINC’S ROLE IN SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION* Deficiency in zinc has been linked to several sexual health issues, which include: - Low libido - Erectile dysfunction - Bad quality of sperm - Irregular ovulations in women - Fertility issues *WHAT IS THE DAILY ZINC REQUIREMENT?* The recommended dietary allowance for zinc: - Men: 11mg/day - Women: 8mg/day - Pregnant women and lactating mothers: 11-12mg/day *RICH DIETARY SOURCES OF ZINC* - Animal sources: Oysters (highest zinc content), beef, chicken and eggs - Plant based sources: Pumpkin seeds, cashews, chicken peas, lentils and whole grains. - Supplements: 15-30 mg/day is safe for adults. It’s important to know that high doses of zinc supplements can cause nausea, and reduced immune function. Always consult a health professional before starting out on supplements. *WHO NEEDS ZINC SUPPLEMENTS?* - People with dietary restrictions like vegetarians or vegans - Men with fertility issues or low testosterone levels - Women with hormonal imbalance or irregular cycles. *Zinc is not a cure all, but a critical nutrient for both hormonal and reproductive health.* *Pairing it with lifestyle modifications like a healthy diet, exercise, reducing alcohol intake and quitting smoke enhances its benefits.* *Make sure to consult a health professional before starting on any supplement.*