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Zinc Deficiency is Linked with Low Testosterone: A Summary of the Science

Zinc Deficiency is Linked with Low Testosterone: A Summary of the Science

Zinc is a trace mineral involved in some 150 enzymatic reactions.

In the male reproductive system, Zinc plays an important role in gonadal development, spermatogenesis and testosterone synthesis.

A recent review of eight clinical trials in humans dating back to 1992 have found, ”...zinc deficiency reduces testosterone levels and zinc supplementation improves testosterone levels.”

The conversion of testosterone to its active form, dihydrotestosterone, is dependent on zinc for its activity. Moreover, zinc deficiency may lead to decreased male hormone receptor activity.

RELATED: Optimize your hormone health with the Alpha Male Stack and other key minerals:  

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In summary, zinc plays an important role in the biological function of testosterone.

Zinc is also lost in sweat and ejaculate; so if you regularly exercise and/or sauna, there may be a need for zinc supplementation to prevent deficiency.

Episode Time Stamps: 

00:30 Zinc supplementation can increase Testosterone levels.

01:55 Zinc is an essential nutrient that plays many roles.

02:10 Testosterone is an androgen that plays many roles.

02:35 Zinc deficiency leads to structural changes within testicles and impairs testosterone synthesis.

04:00 The conversion of testosterone to its active form requires 5 alpha reductase, which is dependent upon zinc.

04:30 Zinc deficiency may lead to decreased male hormone receptor activity.

05:30 Mike recommends zinc bisglycinate chelate bound to glycine.

07:30 Zinc is lost in sweat and ejaculate.

09:30 Consider your zinc-copper ratio.

09:58 Low testosterone increases risk of cardiovascular disease, depression, cerebral vascular disease, insulin resistance, and increased belly fat

References: 

Prasad, A. S., Mantzoros, C. S., Beck, F. W. J., Hess, J. W. & Brewer, G. J. Zinc status and serum testosterone levels of healthy adults. Nutrition 12, 344–348 (1996).
Santos, H. O. & Teixeira, F. J. Use of medicinal doses of zinc as a safe and efficient coadjutant in the treatment of male hypogonadism. Aging Male 23, 669–678 (2020).
Nutritional Needs in Hot Environments: Applications for Military Personnel in Field Operations. National Academy of Sciences.
Zinc: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. NIH White Paper

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.