Zinc is an essential microelement. It implies that it is required in a small amount, but its requirement is crucial and necessary for proper body functions. It assists vital body functions such as the regulation of cell growth, hormone release, immunological response, and reproduction.
Besides these functions, it also plays a role in recovery from PCOS and other female reproductive problems. In this article, the health crescent has signified the use of zinc for PCOS management, its benefits, sources of dosage, and other important roles of zinc in the human body.
Table of Contents
Why Zinc for PCOS?
Zinc performs various cellular functions of the body. Its deficiency can lead to health problems such as:
- Hormonal imbalance
- Inflammation
- oxidative stress
- obesity
- Insulin resistance or type II diabetes
- High blood cholestrols and triglycerides
These are common symptoms of both PCOS and zinc deficiency. Therefore, zinc deficiency can worsen the existing symptoms of PCOS and cause these symptoms in PCOS. It is because women suffering from PCOS are diagnosed with zin deficiency. So the use of zinc for PCOS is a must-add treatment.
10 Benefits of Zinc for PCOS
The benefits of Zinc for PCOS are numerous to get the most out of them; follow along to read about how zinc and PCOS are interrelated.
Maintain blood glucose levels
Zinc plays a vital role in glucose metabolism, regulation, and in forming insulin expression. Hence, its deficiency can lead to insulin resistance and type II diabetes. Therefore, proper zinc intake in PCOS is necessary to maintain blood glucose levels.
According to a research paper published in the National Institute of Medicine, zinc positively affects different parameters of PCOS, such as; insulin resistance. To prevent zinc deficiency, it is necessary to ensure the use of zinc for PCOS handling.
Improves ovulation and fertility rate
Zinc is closely associated with the female reductive system because it assists regulation of women’s reproductive hormones, for instance, LH and FSH. In this way, zinc promotes healthy ovulation and maturation of the oocyte. It also helps in maintaining a healthy pregnancy. Zinc supplementation is a must if you want to conceive and maintain a healthy pregnancy in PCOS.
Related: PCOS Fertility Diet Plan
Manage Hirsutism
Hirsutism is the condition of having excess facial hair in females, and it is the most devastating symptom of PCOS. Zin can help to manage and control hirsutism by reducing androgens such as testosterone levels in females suffering from PCOS. To prevent further facial hair growth and other lifestyle changes use of zinc for PCOS is essential.
Related: Why does hirsutism Occur?
Prevents Oxidative stress
Zinc is involved in redox reactions taking place at the cellular level in the human body. The zinc deficiency disturbs the redox reaction balance and may cause oxidative stress.
For the prevention of oxidative stress, it is important to supply proper amounts of zinc for PCOS and zinc deficiency. Oxidative stress is harmful because it negatively affects both mental and physical health. That’s why preventing the body from oxidative stress is necessary.
Treats inflammation
Zinc acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, and its deficiency may promote or cause inflammation and obesity. Inflammation is a common symptom of PCOS, which occurs due to low levels of zinc in the blood serums of women. So to alleviate inflammation, make sure the intake zinc in PCOS supplementation.
Maintains blood cholesterol and triglycerides
Women suffering from the polycystic ovarian syndrome are susceptible to cardiovascular disorders(CVD). Low concentrations of zinc in PCOS may deteriorate the situation because zinc is actively involved in lipid metabolism.
Zinc supplementation can effectively manage CVD by reducing levels of LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and total cholesterols.
Zinc is also efficient in maintaining blood pressure. That’s the reason why experts recommend the intake of zinc for PCOS and CVD treatments.
Treats alopecia
Zinc can be beneficial in the prevention of scalp hair loss or alopecia because zinc deficiency is reported in alopecia patients. Research shows that zinc is involved in important functional activities in hair follicles and promotes healthy hair growth.
Protects skin
Zinc is an effective treatment for skin problems like oil and acne. It also protects the bacterial infection and skin inflammation. Due to its effectiveness, it has been used in skin ointments and topical lotions.
Boosts thyroid functions
Zinc deficiency is also associated with hypothyroidism and thyroid-related problems. Zinc and PCOS have a close association because of nutritional need for zinc in PCOS increases. Zinc supplementation can boost overall thyroid activity and its functions.
Related: Chromium Picolinate for PCOS
Improves mental health
Depression and anxiety go side by side in PCOS.Other mental health issues such as irritability, emotional instability, and changed social behaviors can also be attributed to low concentrations of zinc and PCOS. Increasing the consumption of zinc in PCOS can help improve mental clarity and overall mental health.
Related: 7 Benefits of Green Tea For PCOS
Sources of Zinc
Zinc is available in different food sources in different proportions. You can take zinc to diet from the following sources:
- Pumpkin seeds
- Sesame seeds
- Cashews
- Chickpeas
- Red meat
- Poultry
- Oysters
- Beans
- Nuts
- Crab
- Lobster
- Cacao Powder
- Whole grains
- Breakfast cereals
- Dairy products
Related: Benefits of Magnesium for PCOS
Zinc Supplements for PCOS
Various zinc supplements are available on the market, including tablets, capsules, and liquid forms. Your best zinc supplement will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a zinc supplement:
- Dosage: Choose a supplement that provides the appropriate dosage for your needs. The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for zinc for adult women is 8 milligrams per day.
- Form: Consider the form of the supplement. Some people prefer tablets or capsules, while others prefer a liquid form.
- Quality: Look for supplements that are manufactured by reputable companies and have undergone third-party testing to ensure purity and potency.
- Possible interactions: If you are taking any medications or have any medical conditions, it is important to check with a healthcare provider before starting a zinc supplement for PCOS to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for you.
The Bottom line
PCOS is a complex hormonal disorder. Zinc supplementation is essential for managing symptoms of PCOS and zinc deficiency. Besides zinc supplementation for PCOS, you need to have a healthy lifestyle change and a PCOS-friendly diet plan as well. Only then will you be able to get rid of PCOS permanently.
Related: 5 Best Supplements For PCOS Management
FAQs
Is Zinc good for PCOS?
There is some evidence that zinc may be beneficial for people with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Still, more research is needed to confirm these effects and determine the optimal dosage and duration of treatment.
Is it possible to prevent Insulin resistance via Zinc in PCOS?
There is some evidence that supplementing with zinc may help improve insulin resistance, which is a common issue in people with PCOS.
Is Zinc effective for treating inflammation?
Zinc may help reduce inflammation in the body, which is thought to be a contributing factor in the development of PCOS.
What is recommended daily allowance for Zinc?
The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for zinc for adult women is 8 milligrams per day.
Can Zinc help in treating alopecia?
Zinc can be beneficial in the prevention of scalp hair loss or alopecia because zinc deficiency is reported in alopecia patients.
The founder of Health Crescent, Azra Khan is a freelance writer and passionate biochemist with a keen interest in promoting well-being through informed choices and creating health and wellness awareness.
