A poor sense of taste in men may link to a problem with their sperm and fertility. Proteins that allow us to taste flavours play a crucial role in making men fertile, a study shows.
American researchers found that two proteins, which allow the body to taste sweet and savoury flavours on the tongue, play a vital part in sperm development.
The study, from the Monell Centre in Philadelphia, could suggest new ways to help male infertility or even spark the production of new male contraceptives. The surprising findings were made when mice were bred for taste related studies, without the two proteins known as taste receptors.
They were found to be sterile, according to the study published in Proceedings of the National Academies of Sciences.
Molecular Biologist Dr Bedrich Mosinger, said: 'This paper highlights a connection between the taste system and male reproduction. 'It is one more demonstration that components of the taste system also play important roles in other organ systems.'
The taste receptors are more popularly known to help tongues detect sugars, salts and acids, which lead us to enjoy sweet, bitter, salty and sour tastes.
While previous research has shown that taste receptors are located in different parts of the body, including the stomach and intestines, their function remains unclear. To try and work out their purpose, researchers examined the taste receptors that allow taste buds found on the tongue to detect sugars and amino acids that produce savoury and sweet tastes.
LITTLE SENSE OF TASTE? COULD MEAN YOU LACK: Zinc.
(RDA): 5.5-9.5mg for men
Poor zinc intake can affect our sense of taste. In research carried out at the University of Ulster involving 387 people, those who had lower levels of zinc in their red blood cells were less able to detect salty tastes.
How low zinc levels affect taste is unclear, but might be because zinc is required for the production of salivary enzymes and development and maintenance of tastebuds in general.
Other signs of zinc deficiency can include more frequent infections, such as colds and flu, and delayed healing of wounds, probably because the mineral has a vital role to play in the functioning of the immune system and in the repair and renewal of cells.
ZINC is important for sperm
Zinc is an antioxidant mineral that is also important in protecting sperm against free radical attack. Semen is rich in zinc, with an estimate of each ejaculate containing as much as 5 mg - one third of the recommended daily nutrient intake. Thus a zinc deficiency would affect the protection of sperm.
FOOD SOLUTION: Red meat - beef and lamb are among the best sources of zinc, so aim to eat one to two portions the size of an 8oz steak or equivalent a week. Other sources include nuts, especially cashews and peanuts, oysters, crab and dark chocolate.
Article extracts: 2nd July 2013 www.dailymail.co.uk