6 replies to this topic

[patientx]

I've read a few posts that said zinc inhibit 5 alpha reductase and reduces DHT, hence it's good for acne.

 

But then there's this study:

 

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http://informahealth...485018109009378

 

Effect of Zinc Administration on Plasma Testosterone, Dihydrotestosterone, and Sperm Count

"T and DHT rose significantly after oral administration of zinc"

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So it looks like zinc actually increases DHT significantly. Does that mean zinc is something to avoid? Are there any studies that show zinc is actually good for acne?

 

[Binga]

If your zinc is on the high side already than zinc increases DHT.

[Omnivium]

That study was done on infertile men, so it may not be the best reference. I know zinc increases testosterone in people with low testosterone, and I don't know about DHT. However, zinc is great for acne by reducing inflammation. You shouldn't avoid taking it, and I don't think I've ever seen a post that said zinc made someone break out.

 

There are plenty of studies. Just google "site:nih.gov" and then whatever keywords you want, and you will find whatever study you want. Here are some: http://www.ncbi.nlm..../pubmed/2575335

http://www.ncbi.nlm....pubmed/15908296

http://www.ncbi.nlm....v/pubmed/139912

http://www.ncbi.nlm....pubmed/20666829

[whoartthou1]

According to this: http://www.ncbi.nlm..../pubmed/2575335

 

The people in that study were taking doses of 200 MG of ZINC?!? Isn't that toxic?

[chunkylard]

Zinc decreases DHT by inhibiting (reducing or stopping) 5 alpha-reductase, an enzyme which is responsible for converting Testosterone (and other hormones as far as I know, but the science on that is not as well-researched from what I've been able to find) into the more potent DHT. DHT = bad testosterone, DHT causes prostate issues in men and also hair loss.    

 

That study is an anomaly. You know how 9 in 10 Dentists recommend Colgate toothpaste? This study is that 10th dentist. 

 

Ok, that's a bad example because Colgate sucks. But you get my point.

[sepsi]

As Omnivium mentioned, you can't generalize from one group of people to another. Topically applies zinc has at least some 5-alpha reductase activity. It's also one of the few supplements where there's evidence to show it's effective in acne.

 

BBC recently reported about a study that showed zinc can keep immune system in check. http://www.bbc.co.uk...health-21372790

 

This could explain why zinc works for acne.

[alternativista]

Zinc helps the body regulate testosterone. So if you are low, as those in this study were, it increases it.