What zinc does for the body: Supporting fertility for both men and women

Fertility is a topic of profound importance for many couples, and the journey to parenthood can be a daunting one, filled with information and procedures. However, amidst the complexities of fertility, one often-overlooked ally is zinc. This essential mineral plays a crucial role in the reproductive health of both men and women, influencing cell differentiation, cell growth and development, hormone regulation, immunological response, and reproduction.

Zinc for Women's Fertility

Zinc is pivotal for the proper functioning of the female reproductive system. The cells in this system undergo extensive differentiation and proliferation, biological processes which are zinc-dependant. Several studies suggest that a zinc deficiency in women can lead to impaired synthesis and/or secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone. Further research is required to delve deeper into this subject, but it's apparent that severe zinc deficiency in women can cause delayed sexual maturation, potentially leading to reproductive issues.

Recent findings also indicate that women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have experienced positive effects from zinc supplementation, results relate to insulin resistance and lipid balance.

Moreover, additional research highlighting zinc's importance in DNA synthesis suggests, "Any malfunction or deficiency of zinc may prevent the binding of DNA and the hormone–receptor complex. This prevents the normal functions of estrogen from occurring. Furthermore, the activators and regulatory potential of other genes presented here collapse, leading to failures in estrogen production."

Source: https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/22/4/2188

Zinc ranks as the second most abundant mineral in the human body, and it must be sourced from foods or supplements to meet our daily needs. When trying to conceive, supplementing with zinc can help ensure that your reproductive system functions optimally. Furthermore, during gestation, zinc supplementation aids in normal foetal growth and development.

Zinc for Men's Fertility

The impact of zinc on male fertility has been studied more extensively, yielding surprising results. According to Allouche-Fitoussi and Haim Breitbart (2020), low zinc levels in the body can lead to a reduction in testis volume, testicular weight, and spermatogenesis failure. Additionally, zinc helps maintain healthy levels of testosterone, a vital hormone for male reproductive health. Research published in the Journal of Reproduction and Infertility, demonstrates that zinc deficiency can lead to reduced testosterone levels, negatively impacting sperm production and quality.

Source:  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6010824/

Supplementing with Zinc

Zinc is a silent yet powerful ally on the journey to parenthood, supporting both women and men in their quest for fertility. It regulates hormone levels in women and enhances healthy sperm production and testosterone levels in men, playing a pivotal role. Ensuring a balanced diet that includes zinc-rich foods or considering zinc supplementation under the guidance of a healthcare professional may be a proactive step towards improving fertility.

Remember, fertility is a complex interplay of various factors, and while zinc can be beneficial, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider for a comprehensive approach to fertility issues. With the right care and attention, zinc can be a valuable asset on the path to achieving the dream of parenthood.

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6010824/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8599883/

https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/22/4/2188