Nutrition Questions and Answers
Vital Health Zone is proud to announce Lesa Rusher, who is our resident naturopathic expert and who is available to answer questions about nutrition and health.
Lesa Rusher is a qualified naturopath with a thriving business in Canberra, Australia and has a wealth of experience treating clients on a variety of health issues. Lesa Rusher's full credentials can be found in our experts area.
Lesa Rusher will answer your nutrition-related questions.
Q: I have found articles that say the required level of zinc is between 8 and 11 mg depending on whether you are male or female.
I give zinc supplements (25mg) to my husband, as I do not think the food we eat provides 11mg per day. Should he take the supplements daily, since maximum zinc intake per day is total of 40mg.
I am trying to get pregnant.
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A: Zinc is a mineral that is vital for the health of sperm and is therefore thought to be important in helping women become pregnant with healthy, viable sperm that can impregnate an ovum.
Zinc supplements are recommended if (a) the diet is lacking in this important mineral, or (b) if a couple wants to get pregnant and wants to increase the chance of producing healthy, viable sperm.
Look at the ingredients list of the supplement and you will see that although the amount of zinc in there is 25mg, the actual equivalence of elemental (and available) zinc is much less than that, so it is unlikely that your husband will overdose on zinc (as long as you are following the manufacturers recommended daily intake of the supplement).
If you are still unsure, seek the advice of your doctor, or even a pharmacist at your local pharmacy/chemist.
Please note that the information provided is for educational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose or treat medical conditions. Consult with your medical physician regarding appropriateness of using supplements in your healing process.
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