Suddenly you’re feeling harder than usual and checked your recent food list. Surprisingly most of the food you’re taking is high in zinc. So, you may be wondering – does zinc make you harder?

Though the answer is yes, zinc doesn’t directly make you harder as it doesn’t affect the blood flow in the pennis, However, there are certain effects that allow zinc to make you harder.

Keep reading this article and learn everything about it. 

What Is Zinc?

Zinc is an essential nutrient that is abundantly present in the human body and offers numerous health benefits. It plays a vital role in various processes, such as immune function, gene expression, and DNA synthesis. Additionally, zinc is naturally found in a variety of foods, including oysters, red meat, breakfast cereals, and chicken.

Scientific research has shown that zinc supports over 300 enzyme activities in the body, contributing to important functions such as metabolism and nerve function. This highlights the crucial role that zinc plays in maintaining overall health and well-being.

Does Zinc Make You Harder?

Yes, Zinc can make you harder but not directly. 

As zinc doesn’t directly affect the hardness or firmness of an erection it won’t directly make it harder. It does not influence blood flow in the penis or have a direct connection to the physical rigidity of an erection. 

However, zinc does play a role in supporting the overall male reproductive system, which can indirectly contribute to achieving and maintaining an erection.

Multiple studies have reported on the potential impact of zinc on sexual function and testosterone production, suggesting a relationship between zinc levels and erectile function. Low levels of zinc have been associated with erectile dysfunction, which refers to the inability to maintain an erection.

Conversely, higher levels of zinc in the body have been linked to improved erectile function and the quality of erections. These findings indicate that zinc may play a role in supporting erectile health, but further research is still needed to fully understand the mechanisms and extent of its influence.

Does Zinc Make You Horny? 

Zinc has the potential to increase sex drive, commonly referred to as feeling “horny,” due to its ability to enhance testosterone production. Testosterone is a key male sex hormone that influences sexual desire

When zinc levels in the body are sufficient and testosterone production is optimized, it can lead to an increased desire for sexual activity. Therefore, it is normal to experience feelings of horniness or a heightened urge for sex after consuming zinc-rich foods or maintaining adequate zinc levels in the body.

Does Zinc Increase Testosterone?

Research suggests that zinc supplementation can increase testosterone levels in normal men who have marginal zinc deficiency. A study conducted on elderly men with low zinc levels found that supplementing with zinc for six months resulted in a significant increase in serum testosterone levels. The testosterone levels rose from an average of 8.3 +/- 6.3 nmol/L to 16.0 +/- 4.4 nmol/L (p = 0.02). These findings indicate that zinc may have an important role in modulating testosterone levels in men with normal zinc status.

What is the Regular Zinc Intake for Humans?

The ideal consumption of zinc is different for men and women, Let’s check them below.

• The recommended daily intake of zinc for adults aged 19 and above is 11 mg for men and 8 mg for women.
• For pregnant women, the recommended intake slightly increases to 11 mg per day.
• During lactation, women are advised to consume 12 mg of zinc daily to support the nutritional needs of both the mother and the breastfeeding infant.

10 Health Benefits of Zinc

Zinc offers several sexual benefits for men, making it a valuable nutrient. The following are scientifically proven advantages of zinc for male sexual health:

1. Boosts Testosterone Levels

Zinc supplementation increases testosterone levels in men, which enhances libido and sex drive. Research has shown that zinc deficiency can reduce testosterone levels in healthy men by up to 75% within 20 weeks if they do not consume adequate zinc. Additionally, studies indicate that zinc supplements can double testosterone production in elderly males. 

Consuming 30 mg of zinc daily has been associated with high testosterone levels in men, according to a 2000 study. A 2020 study reported that zinc increases testosterone levels and sperm count.

Another study from 2006 observed that zinc supplementation elevated testosterone levels in elite wrestlers, improving both total and free testosterone. Furthermore, a 2009 study revealed that zinc supplementation increases testosterone levels and improves sexual function. Overall, zinc plays a crucial role in testosterone production and maintenance.

2. Reduces the Risk of BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia)

Zinc is involved in regulating inflammation, and maintaining balanced zinc levels may be beneficial for individuals with an enlarged prostate. By restoring zinc levels, it could potentially help in managing the symptoms of BPH.

3. Supports Acne Management

Zinc has shown promise in the treatment and prevention of acne. It appears to work by reducing excessive skin oil production, protecting against bacterial infections that contribute to acne development, and alleviating inflammation associated with acne lesions. However, the optimal dosage and duration of zinc supplementation for acne management are yet to be determined, and it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

4. Boosts the Immune System

Zinc is crucial for maintaining a healthy and robust immune system. It plays a vital role in various immune functions, including the development and activation of immune cells, antibody production, and the regulation of inflammation. Adequate zinc levels are necessary for optimal immune response, wound healing, and normal growth and development.

5. Increases Sex Drive

By stimulating testosterone production, zinc contributes to an enhanced sex drive and libido in men. A study conducted on rats examined the impact of zinc on sexual arousal behavior, indicating that zinc promotes sexual arousal, and sex drive, and helps maintain erections. However, it should be noted that higher doses of zinc can actually decrease libido and sex drive. While scientific evidence on this relationship is limited, further research is needed to fully understand the effects of zinc on sex drive. Additionally, you can also read about the best probiotics for men. 

6. Improves Sperm Health

Zinc is essential for sperm production and plays a critical role in sperm health. Research has shown various benefits of zinc for male fertility, including improved sperm motility, count, and reduced abnormalities. Low levels of zinc have been linked to poor sperm count and increased abnormal sperm. Conversely, higher zinc levels are associated with better sperm movement (motility). According to a 2020 study, zinc is a fundamental requirement for normal sperm function and fertilization. Zinc supplementation has also been found to be beneficial for improving male fertility.

However, there is no direct link established between zinc deficiency and male infertility. Furthermore, zinc has been shown to protect sperm from damage caused by reactive oxygen species during assisted reproductive techniques, as highlighted in a 2015 study. Another study from 2009 indicated that low zinc levels may contribute to low-quality sperm and male infertility. Thus, zinc and sperm health are closely connected, with zinc being an essential element for the male reproductive system.

7. Shortens the Duration of Cold Symptoms

Research suggests that taking oral zinc supplements within 24 hours of experiencing cold symptoms may help reduce the duration of the common cold. However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of zinc in this regard may vary among individuals, and further research is still needed to fully understand its mechanisms.

8. Treats Premature Ejaculation

Zinc can help delay ejaculation and treat premature ejaculation, allowing men to last longer in bed by providing better control over ejaculation. A study on rats found that taking 5 mg of zinc daily for two weeks significantly increased the ejaculation timing of the rats, extending it to 711.6 seconds. Additionally, a 2016 study analyzed the impact of zinc, along with folic acid, biotin, and Rhodiola rosea, on ejaculatory control in men with lifelong premature ejaculation.

Participants took one tablet of the herbal supplement for 90 days, and the results showed an increase in ejaculation time from 73 seconds to 102 seconds. After 90 days, approximately 60% of participants reported better control over ejaculation, with no major side effects reported during the study. Clinical evidence supports the notion that zinc can help men last longer in bed by enhancing control over the ejaculatory muscles.

9. Helps With Erectile Dysfunction

Zinc aids in the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) by increasing testosterone levels, as low testosterone, is one of the causes of ED. Zinc also directly impacts erectile dysfunction. In a 1995 study involving middle-aged men taking hydrochlorothiazide (a medication used to control high blood pressure), which is known to reduce zinc levels in the body, it was found that those with low zinc

10. Prevents Hair Loss

Zinc has been implicated in the prevention of hair loss and the maintenance of healthy hair. Although further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between zinc and hair loss, some studies have shown promising results. Zinc is involved in the regulation of hair follicle structure and function, and it is believed to play a role in preventing hair follicle regression and maintaining normal hair growth cycles.

Which Food Contains More ZInc?

Below we’re adding a list of 15 food items that contain high zinc intake. Incorporating these foods into your diet can help ensure an adequate intake of zinc.

1. Rock oysters: Rich in zinc with a content of 20.25 mg per 100 grams.
2. Lamb shank: Contains approximately 10 mg of zinc per 100 grams.
3. Beef (steak): Provides a good amount of zinc, with 8.2 mg per 100 grams.
4. Pumpkin seeds (pepitas): A plant-based source of zinc, offering 7.5 mg per 100 grams.
5. Cheese (tasty): Provides 3.55 mg of zinc per 100 grams.
6. Almonds: A nut-based source of zinc, containing 3.5 mg per 100 grams.
7. Oats (rolled, uncooked): Provides 2.35 mg of zinc per 100 grams.
8. Lobster: Contains approximately 2 mg of zinc per 100 grams.
9. Chickpeas (canned): Provides 1 mg of zinc per 100 grams.
10. Chicken breast: Contains approximately 0.8 mg of zinc per 100 grams.
11. Cornflakes: A cereal option that offers 0.7 mg of zinc per 100 grams.
12. Yogurt: Contains 0.6 mg of zinc per 100 grams.
13. Baked beans: Provides approximately 0.5 mg of zinc per 100 grams.
14. Cashews: A nut-based source of zinc, offering 0.5 mg per 100 grams.
15. Milk (regular): Contains about 0.35 mg of zinc per 100 grams.

NB: The data is collected from Health Direct.

What Happens When You Take More Than 40 MG of Zinc per Day

Exceeding the recommended daily dose of zinc, typically 40 mg, can result in zinc toxicity. Symptoms of zinc overdose may include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, gastrointestinal problems, and stomach pain. It is important to adhere to the instructions provided by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) regarding zinc supplement dosages, as most over-the-counter zinc supplements follow these guidelines to ensure safe usage. When using zinc supplements, it is crucial to check the daily value (DV) percentage on the label and avoid surpassing your daily limit.

To prevent overdose, it is advisable to refrain from taking multiple zinc supplements simultaneously. Combining multiple supplements can increase the risk of exceeding the recommended zinc intake.

Ingesting zinc naturally from food sources is unlikely to lead to overdose. The body can typically handle zinc obtained from foods without adverse effects.

Side Effects of Taking Too Much Zincs

Taking excessive amounts of zinc can lead to the following side effects:

• Digestive Issues: Too much zinc can cause gastrointestinal problems such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. If you want read an article on – Tips to keep your digestive system healthy.
• Copper Deficiency: Zinc competes with copper for absorption in the body, so excessive zinc intake can lead to copper deficiency, which may result in anemia, fatigue, and neurological issues.
• Reduced Immune Function: Excessive zinc intake can suppress the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses.
• Metal Taste and Smell: Consuming too much zinc can cause a metallic taste in the mouth and an unusual smell in the urine.
• Toxicity: Prolonged and extreme overconsumption of zinc can result in zinc toxicity, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, nerve damage, and organ damage.
• Flu-like symptom: Taking excessive amounts of zinc can also lead to flu-like symptoms as a side effect. These symptoms may include fever, chills, fatigue, muscle aches, and headaches. It is important to monitor your zinc intake and consult with a healthcare professional to ensure you are consuming zinc within the recommended limits to avoid these potential side effects.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

In this segment, we’ll learn about some common FAQs.

Can zinc boost your libido?

Yes, zinc can boost your libido. Zinc plays a crucial role in testosterone production, which is essential for sexual desire and performance. Adequate zinc levels can support a healthy sex drive and overall sexual function in both men and women.

How much zinc is lost during ejaculation?

A study indicates that approximately 9% of total body zinc is lost through ejaculation. However, the amount of zinc lost in semen is considered negligible and not significant. As long as you are meeting the recommended daily intake of zinc (11 mg), there is no need for concern.

Does zinc help men sexually?

Yes, zinc helps men sexually. It plays a crucial role in testosterone production, which can enhance libido and sex drive. Zinc also contributes to sperm health, and fertility, and may assist in treating conditions like erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation.

Does zinc act like Viagra?

Research suggests that zinc can have a positive effect on arousal and the ability to maintain an erection in males. However, it is important to note that zinc does not function in the same way as Viagra, which is a medication specifically designed to treat erectile dysfunction.

Does zinc make sperm stronger?

According to a meta-analysis examining the therapeutic effects of zinc supplementation on male infertility, it was found that zinc supplementation can significantly improve various aspects of sperm quality. The analysis revealed that zinc supplementation leads to an increase in the percentage of normal sperm morphology, improved sperm motility, and increased semen volume. These findings suggest that zinc can contribute to enhancing the strength and overall quality of sperm.

Is it ok to take zinc every day?

Taking zinc daily can be appropriate and beneficial for maintaining optimal health. However, it is important to note that your body requires zinc in moderate amounts. The recommended daily allowance for adults ranges from 8 to 11 mg, depending on factors such as age and gender.

Bottomline

So now you know the answer to the query – does zinc make you harder?

While zinc does not directly influence the hardness of erections, it plays a significant role in overall male reproductive health. It impacts testosterone production, sperm development, and libido, which can indirectly contribute to better sexual function. However, individual experiences may vary, and it’s important to maintain a balanced approach to sexual health.