Maximizing Zinc for Hormonal Health Zinc absorption can be limited by phytates and fibers in the digestive system, so it's best not to consume it with vegetables. However, Vitamin B6 and picolinate can increase zinc absorption. While the zinc gluconate form offers fewer side effects and higher absorption, the most important factor is its dose dependency.
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Remember, the lower the dose, the higher the absorption rate. Instead of taking a single 20 mg dose of zinc at once, split it into two 10 mg doses.
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Zinc's Impact on Your HormonesÂ
A zinc deficiency can have a significant impact on your hormonal balance:
*Androgen receptors can decrease by 20% to 40%.
*Estrogen receptors can increase by 40% to 60%.
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This makes adequate zinc intake crucial before, during, and after steroid cycles. Furthermore, a zinc deficiency increases the rate at which steroids convert to estrogen, so ensuring proper zinc levels can help prevent unwanted estrogenic side effects. Sufficient zinc in the body can also increase the concentration of free steroids by reducing SHBG levels.Â