The body needs different minerals in varying amounts to function optimally. A trace mineral is one that is needed in very small amounts. Zinc, a trace mineral, is not stored in the body, so daily intake is required to meet the body's needs. It is used for a number of functions including healing wounds, cell division, protein synthesis, and the catalytic activity of a large number of enzymes. A strong correlation between the presence of zinc in the body and prostate health has been reported, generating attention on the sources of zinc and its effects.
Prostate Gland
The prostate gland is one of the components of the male reproductive system. Its location close to the bladder and urethra means any increase in size can prove problematic. Unfortunately, the prostate gland does tend to become enlarged with age. This can lead to problems passing urine, infections in the urinary tract and even bladder and kidney damage.
Prostate Cancer
Although in many cases an enlarged prostate is the result of benign growth, a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, the symptoms associated with this state can also be indicative of cancerous or malignant growth. Prostate cancer is known as the most common cancer affecting males, and can be aggressive, but typically grows slowly and remains contained in the prostate gland.
Zinc and the Prostate
Dr. Emily Ho of the Linus Pauling Institute reported in 2005 that insufficient zinc in prostate cells could lead to an impairment of the cells' ability to repair damage to their DNA, the genetic storage unit of the cell. It was also noted that this same deficiency could promote damage to the DNA. Both circumstances increase the risk of developing prostate cancer.
Dietary Zinc
The National institute of health recommends a daily allowance of zinc in the amounts of 8mg for an adult female and 11mg for an adult male. This is not a difficult undertaking for anyone eating balanced meals. Zinc is found in many foods in varying amounts. Six medium oysters will provide 76.7mg of zinc; you'll get 8.9mg from 3 oz of beef shank, and 2.7mg from one roasted chicken leg. Zinc can also be found in dairy products, beans and peas, nuts, whole grains, some other seafood and red meats.
Supplemental Zinc
Zinc is available in different forms in supplements, and is also found in many over-the-counter cold medicines. The reports of the positive impact of zinc on prostate health could lead to men taking large amounts of zinc in supplements. Before you make this decision, however, consider the following study reported by the National Cancer Institute. Leitzmann, M.F. et al found that men who took more than 100mg per day of supplemental zinc and those who took zinc supplements for more than 10 years had an increased risk of prostate cancer. The researchers admit that other factors may also be involved, and further study is required, but perhaps you should try to increase your dietary intake of zinc before you hurry to the shelves for supplements.
References
- Linus Pauling Institute Research Report: Zinc and Prostate Cancer
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Prostate Enlargement: Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
- Mayo Clinic: Prostate Cancer
- National Institute of Health Office of Dietary Supplements:Zinc
- Leitzmann M.F. et. al., National Cancer Institute: Zinc supplement use and risk of prostate cancer
