A mineral located in every cell in your body, zinc plays an important role in promoting reproductive health, especially in men. Although a well-rounded diet typically provides adequate zinc levels to maintain a properly functioning reproductive system, some people might experience zinc deficiency, which can cause or worsen infertility problems.
The Facts
Zinc is an important trace mineral that your body uses in multiple ways, including to maintain a proper immune system, heal from wounds, maintain cell functioning and aid in the physical development of male reproductive organs. The recommended dietary allowance of zinc for adults ranges between 8 and 11 mg per day, depending on your age and gender. Various zinc-rich foods include seafood such as oyster and shrimp, nuts, seeds, cheese, red meat and chicken. As a supplement, zinc typically is available over the counter in capsule and tablet form.
Relationship
Although the exact relationship isn't completely clear, zinc plays a role in both male and female infertility. Women who fail to maintain adequate zinc levels might stop ovulating. In men, inadequate zinc levels correlate with impotence and a decreased interest in sex, as well as the potential for improper functioning of the testicles, notes Dr. Robert Barbieri, Harvard Medical School professor and coauthor of "Six Steps to Increased Fertility." In addition to possibly reducing sperm count, low daily intake of zinc -- defined as 5 mg or less per day -- might reduce both testosterone levels and the volume of semen a man produces, according to Dr. Judith Brown, registered dietitian and coauthor of "Nutrition through the Life Cycle."
Considerations
Signs that can indicate your body doesn't receive enough zinc can include ceased menstrual periods, decreased appetite, loss of weight, an inability to taste or smell and the development of white spots on your fingernails, as well as acne and other skin problems. Although excessively low zinc levels can contribute to infertility problems, don't assume that a zinc deficiency is the sole cause of reproductive issues you might have. Other environmental and nutritional factors also can affect fertility for both men and women, including low vitamin C levels, excessive smoking, and alcohol and caffeine consumption.
Cautions
Always check with your health care provider before using supplemental zinc to aid in preventing or treating infertility. Tell your doctor about any other medications and supplements you take, since zinc can interact with some, including certain blood pressure medications and antibiotics. You might be more likely to experience zinc-related infertility problems if you suffer from health conditions, such as celiac disease and Crohn's disease, that prevent your body from absorbing certain nutrients. In such cases, your body might not be able to metabolize zinc, which leaves your body depleted of the mineral.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Zinc
- "Nutrition through the Life Cycle"; Dr. Judith Brown, et al.; 2007
- "Six Steps to Increased Fertility"; Dr. Robert Barbieri, et al.; 2000
- "Do You Want to Have a Baby?"; Linda Abernathy, Ph.D., et al.; 2006
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