An enlarged prostate, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, often occurs as a man ages. As the prostate gland increases in size, it puts pressure on the urethra, often causing increased or painful urination and discomfort in the lower abdomen. Mississippi Baptist Health Systems notes that most men with prostate enlargement eventually require medical treatment, which may include surgery or drugs that help shrink prostate tissue. Zinc might also support prostate health, but there is no research evidence that it can shrink an enlarged prostate. Talk to your doctor before using supplemental zinc.
Properties and Potential Benefits
Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a role in several biochemical processes including cell division and enzyme production. The Office of Dietary Supplements notes that it might also be involved in the prevention or treatment of a number of conditions including age-related macular degeneration and the common cold. An article published in the "Indian Journal of Urology" in January 2011 notes that men with enlarged prostate glands have lower levels of zinc than men with normal prostates.
Research
There is no evidence to suggest that zinc can shrink prostate tissue. However, the results of a laboratory study published in the August 2010 issue of "The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry" shows that zinc helps to regulate prostate cell growth. This needs further human-based studies to determine whether taking a zinc supplement can benefit men with an enlarged prostate gland and whether it can help alleviate symptoms.
Sources and Administration
Zinc is in a variety of foods including oysters, chicken, almonds and cashew nuts. It also comes as a dietary supplement. However, since there is no proof that zinc can treat an enlarged prostate gland, guidance on a suitable dose is lacking. However, your doctor may be able to advise you on a suitable dose to help maintain or improve prostate health.
Considerations
Taking large quantities of zinc may cause chronic or acute zinc toxicity, warns the Office of Dietary Supplements. Symptoms include reduced immune function, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramps. Don't take more than 40 mg daily, the upper tolerable limit for adults, unless your doctor tells you to do so. Keep in mind that zinc supplements might also interact with other medicines including diuretics and tetracycline antibiotics.
References
- Mississippi Baptist Health Systems: Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
- "Indian Journal of Urology"; Zinc Status of Patients With Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and Prostate Carcinoma; P. Christudoss, et al.; January 2011
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Zinc
- Department of Nutrition and Exercise Sciences, Oregon State University: Differential Response to Zinc-induced Apoptosis in Benign Prostate Hyperplasia and Prostate Cancer Cells
