Increase Your Libido with Zinc

Zinc has the ability to increase your sex drive. It is one of the main requirements for the production of testosterone. It also contributes to a normal sperm count. Low levels of zinc in your body leads to lower sperm count and lower sex drive or, worst, the absence of it. Zinc is important to keep your prostate healthy, to aid in regulating your prostatic fluids, and to aid in the production of semen. Some researches also suggest that Zinc can aid in avoiding prostate cancer. For women, zinc deficiency may also lead to lower libido, irregular periods, and insufficient vaginal lubrication.

Generally, zinc is important for a healthy immune system, and is also of use in fighting skin problems such as acne, boils and sore throats. It is further needed for cell division, and is needed by the tissue of the hair, nails and skin to be in top form. Zinc is further used in the growth and maintenance of muscles. Children, for normal growth and sexual development, also require zinc. Zinc also has the tendency to control the oil glands, and is also required for the synthesis of protein and collagen - which is great for wound healing and a healthy skin.

A deficiency of this mineral will result in an under-performing immune system, open to infections, allergies, night blindness, loss of smell, falling hair, white spots under finger nails, skin problems, and sleep disturbances. It can also lead to loss of appetite and diarrhea. Too much on the other hand can have adverse effects. “Zinc toxicity”, as it is called, can lead to nasty side effects such as nausea, vomiting, electrolyte imbalances, diarrhea, dehydration, and can harm your immune system. It can also suppress one’s absorption of iron, copper, and other mineral trace elements which our body needs to develop.

There is a shortage of zinc in many people's diet, since zinc is destroyed in the milling process and is also lost in cooking. Additionally, today’s lifestyle promotes a fast depletion of zinc levels in the body. Stress, caffeine, smoking, and alcohol consumption increase the need for zinc. It is therefore important to know which foods are rich in zinc. Additionally, regular intake of 15 to 25 mg of zinc is highly advisable (more than this can lead to more harm than good).

Food rich in zinc:

• Oysters (yes, oysters really are an aphrodisiac!)
• Other seafood especially shellfishes
• Chicken
• Beef
• Lamb
• Eggs
• Brown rice
• Oatmeal
• Pecans
• Cashews
• Peanut butter
• Cheddar cheese
• Milk
• Green leafy vegetables