Zinc for Sexual Arousal
Zinc matters if you are deficient; supplementing when replete does nothing for arousal.
Overview
Verdict
How It Works
Dosing & Protocol
Typical dose
- Recommended dose
- 15-30mg/day only if low
- Expected timeframe
- 8-12 weeks
Protocol
- form
- Zinc gluconate, sulfate or picolinate with food
- duration
- Not applicable - no trial has shown an arousal benefit in replete people
- co factor
- Evidence is insufficient. The rationale rests on real but narrow findings: severe zinc deficiency causes hypogonadism with low testosterone, documented in the classic Iranian and Egyptian deficiency syndromes, and small studies in haemodialysis patients with zinc deficiency reported improved sexual function on repletion. In men with normal zinc status, supplementation does not raise testosterone and no randomised trial has demonstrated improved libido, arousal or erectile function. Evidence in women is essentially absent. Zinc oyster folklore has no bearing on this.
- titration
- Not applicable. The tolerable upper intake level is 40 mg/day and should not be exceeded
- starting dose
- Not established for this outcome. Requirements are 8 mg/day for women and 11 mg/day for men
Evidence
What the studies say
No studies are yet linked to both Zinc and Sexual Arousal.
Safety
Caveats
Long-term high doses cause copper deficiency.
Less likely to help if
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any supplement regimen.
Individual results may vary. The statements on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products and information are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.