Prostate Health Requires Zinc

Zinc is the single most important mineral for your prostate health. Zinc is concentrated in the prostate gland. It's a major ingredient of seminal fluid and a deficiency can lead to major problems. Zinc deficiency has also been linked to prostate inflammation and enlargement, therefore a zinc supplement may be advocated both to prevent and alleviate an enlarged prostate.

It's somewhat unusual to have a deficiency in zinc, it really depends on your diet. Unfortunately, a lack of zinc in your daily diet can lead to prostate problems not the least of which is impotence. Zinc absorption may be decreased in men with prostate enlargement (prostatitis) because estrogen levels are higher and estrogen impairs intestinal zinc uptake. In prostatitis, zinc levels are only ONE-TENTH of those in a normal prostate.

If you choose to use a supplement, keep in mind that zinc is best absorbed as a chelated complex. Another way to get zinc is to eat foods that naturally contain it. Zinc-rich foods include oysters, shrimp, red meat, shellfish, , whole grains, nuts -especially walnuts, hazelnuts and almonds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and legumes like peas, beans, and soy beans.

Because zinc inhibits copper absorption, you'll need to supplement with it as well. While you're at it add in other antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, and selenium.

Including some extra zinc into your daily routine either by a supplement or including rich sources of food into your daily menu. You'll be rewarded with a healthy prostate and not suffer the effects of prostatitis.