Health Tips for Men's Wellness: Zinc, Selenium, and Hormone Support

Q: Health Tips for Men's Wellness: Zinc, Selenium, and Hormone Support

Fisherman： Hello, seeing your warm greetings makes me feel that there are still people in Taiwan with a sense of humanity. <br>Currently, four trees have fallen at home, but everyone is safe, thank you for your concern. <br>Regarding the health supplements you mentioned, I person

Greetings?

Hello Dr.
Hsu,
I suddenly recalled the devastation caused by the 88 Flood.
I hope everything is safe in Taitung, where you are located.
I am writing to extend my greetings and hope that your office and the community are all safe!
I apologize for the delayed message.
Additionally, I remember you mentioned that taking zinc and selenium twice a week could help improve aging and prevent prostate cancer.
Recently, I discovered that professional pharmacies (like Watsons and others) sell "Men's B Complex + Selenium." I have decided to purchase it.
Is it sufficient to take it twice a week?
I also bought DHEA to supplement testosterone (Androgel).
This supplement states that it needs to be taken for four consecutive months to be effective.
If I take it every other day, will its effectiveness be reduced?
Best regards,
LION

Yú Wēng, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/08/26

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Fisherman: Hello, seeing your warm greetings makes me feel that there are still people in Taiwan with a sense of humanity.
Currently, four trees have fallen at home, but everyone is safe, thank you for your concern.
Regarding the health supplements you mentioned, I personally believe that the diet in Taiwan should be sufficient, and a slight supplementation of the uneven parts should be enough.
Therefore, I think any type of nutritional supplement, as long as it is one-third of the recommended dosage, should be sufficient, and even one-fifth might be enough.
Of course, this is just my personal opinion.
As for whether insufficient dosage would affect efficacy, I cannot assess that, because in this regard, they are basically health foods, not medications.
To use an advertising phrase: only medications have efficacy.
The Department of Health only endorses the efficacy of medications, while the regulations for food are comparatively lenient.
I hope the above response is helpful to you.
After all, I really am not an expert in nutritional supplementation.

Reply Date: 2009/08/26

More Info

Hello LION,
Thank you for your thoughtful message and for your concern regarding the recent events in Taitung. I appreciate your kind words and hope that you are doing well too.

Regarding your questions about zinc, selenium, and hormone support, let’s delve into the details to provide you with a comprehensive understanding.

Zinc and Selenium for Men's Health
Zinc and selenium are essential trace minerals that play significant roles in men's health, particularly concerning prostate health and hormone regulation.
1. Zinc: This mineral is crucial for testosterone production and overall hormonal balance. It supports the function of the prostate gland and may help reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Research suggests that adequate zinc levels can improve testosterone levels, which is vital for sexual health, libido, and overall vitality. The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for zinc is about 11 mg per day for adult men.
2. Selenium: This mineral is known for its antioxidant properties, which help protect cells from oxidative stress. Selenium has been linked to a lower risk of prostate cancer in some studies, although the evidence is not entirely conclusive. The RDA for selenium is about 55 mcg per day for adult men.

Supplementation Guidelines
You mentioned that you found a product containing zinc and selenium, specifically a "Men’s B Complex Plus Zn + Se." This can be a beneficial addition to your diet, especially if you are concerned about aging and prostate health.
- Dosage: If the product suggests taking it twice a week, that may be sufficient for maintenance, but it’s essential to follow the specific instructions on the label or consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
- Timing: Consistency is key with supplements. Taking them regularly as directed will yield better results than sporadic use. If you choose to take them every other day instead of twice a week, ensure that you are not exceeding the upper intake levels for zinc (40 mg/day) and selenium (400 mcg/day) to avoid toxicity.

DHEA and Testosterone Support
DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands and serves as a precursor to both testosterone and estrogen. It is often marketed as a supplement to enhance testosterone levels, particularly in older men.

- Effectiveness: While some studies suggest that DHEA supplementation can improve testosterone levels, the results can vary widely among individuals. It may take several weeks to notice any effects, and continuous use is often recommended for optimal results.
- Safety: DHEA is generally considered safe for short-term use, but long-term effects are not well understood. It is crucial to monitor your hormone levels and consult with a healthcare provider before starting DHEA, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

Conclusion
In summary, incorporating zinc and selenium into your regimen can support prostate health and hormonal balance, while DHEA may help boost testosterone levels. However, it’s essential to approach supplementation thoughtfully, considering both the potential benefits and risks. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have existing health concerns or are taking other medications.

I hope this information helps you make informed decisions about your health. If you have any further questions or need clarification, feel free to reach out. Wishing you good health and well-being!
Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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