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(NaturalNews) 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.

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