The influence of dietary supplement on male fertility

The influence of dietary supplements on male fertility: we analyze myths and reality

Male infertility, defined as a man’s inability to cause pregnancy in a fertile woman for one year of regular unprotected sexual intercourse, is a significant problem of healthcare, affecting about 15% of couples around the world. About half of the cases of infertility are associated with the male factor, and the most common causes are violations of spermatogenesis (process of sperm formation), structural anomalies of reproductive organs, infections, hormonal imbalances and genetic factors. In recent years, along with traditional medical approaches, more and more attention has been paid to the potential role of biologically active additives (dietary supplements) in improving male fertility. The market for dietary supplements, promising to improve sperm quality, increase its quantity and total fertility, is growing rapidly. However, scientific data confirming the effectiveness of many of these additives are often limited, contradictory or based on research with a small number of participants. In this article, we will examine in detail the influence of various dietary supplements on male fertility, analyze scientific evidence, warnings and potential risks associated with their use. We will also discuss the importance of consulting with a doctor before taking any additives, especially if there are problems with fertility.

1. Oxidative stress and male fertility: the role of antioxidants

Oxidative stress, which occurs as a result of an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the ability of the body to neutralize them, is an important factor affecting male fertility. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cell structures, including spermatozoa DNA, membranes and mitochondria, which leads to a decrease in mobility, viability and fertilization ability. The level of oxidative stress in sperm is closely related to sperm quality, and increased oxidative stress is often found in men with infertility.

Antioxidants are substances that can neutralize free radicals and protect cells from oxidative damage. Due to its ability to reduce oxidative stress, antioxidants are often recommended as dietary supplements to improve male fertility. The most studied antioxidants in the context of male fertility are:

• Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): A powerful antioxidant that can improve mobility, quantity and morphology of sperm. Vitamin C also protects sperm from DNA damage. Several studies have shown that vitamin C intake can improve sperm parameters in men with infertility, especially in those who have a high level of oxidative stress. However, more large -scale randomized controlled studies (RCTs) are needed to finally confirm its effectiveness.
• Vitamin E (Tokoferol): A fat -soluble antioxidant that protects cell membranes from damage by free radicals. Vitamin E also plays an important role in the process of spermatogenesis. Studies have shown that vitamin E can improve the mobility and morphology of sperm. However, the research results are ambiguous, and some studies have not revealed the significant effect of vitamin E on sperm parameters.
• Selenium: A trace element that is a component of glutathioneperoxidase, an important antioxidant enzyme. Selenium is necessary for the normal functioning of sperm and their protection from oxidative damage. Some studies have shown that selenium supplements can improve sperm mobility and increase pregnancy chances. However, further research is needed to confirm these results and determine the optimal dose.
• Zinc: A trace element that plays an important role in spermatogenesis, maintaining testosterone levels and protecting spermatozoa DNA. Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in the quantity and mobility of sperm. Studies have shown that zinc supplements can improve sperm parameters in men with zinc deficiency. However, the excess of the recommended dose of zinc may have negative consequences.
• Coenzim Q10 (COQ10): An antioxidant that plays an important role in the production of energy in cells, including spermatozoa. COQ10 also protects sperm from oxidative damage. Studies have shown that COQ10 can improve mobility and number of spermatozoa. However, more large -scale research is needed to confirm these results and determine the optimal dose.
• Glutathione: A powerful antioxidant that plays an important role in protecting cells from oxidative damage. Glutation also participates in the detoxification of the body. Studies have shown that glutathione can improve the mobility and morphology of sperm. However, glutathione is poorly absorbed by oral administration, so its predecessor N-acetylcystein (NAC) is usually used.
• N-Acetylcistein (NAC): The predecessor of glutathione, which helps to increase the level of glutathione in the body. NAC has antioxidant and anti -inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that NAC can improve sperm parameters and reduce the level of oxidative stress.

2. Amino acids and male fertility: L-Carnitin and L-Arginine

Amino acids are construction proteins and play an important role in many biological processes, including spermatogenesis. Some amino acids were studied for their potential benefit for male fertility.

• L-Carnitin: An amino acid that plays an important role in the transport of fatty acids in mitochondria, where they are used to produce energy. L-carnitine also has antioxidant properties. Spermatozoa needs a large amount of energy to maintain their mobility and the ability to fertilize. Studies have shown that L-carnitine supplements can improve mobility, quantity and morphology of sperm. L-carnitine can also protect sperm from DNA damage. There are two main forms of L-carnitine: L-carnitine and acetyl-L-carnitine (Alcar). Alcar has a greater ability to penetrate through a hematoencephalic barrier and can provide additional benefits for brain health.
• L-arginine: Amino acid, which is the predecessor of nitrogen oxide (No), molecules, which plays an important role in the regulation of blood flow and vascular function. No is necessary for erectile function and can also play a role in spermatogenesis. Studies have shown that L-Arginine additives can improve the quantity and mobility of sperm. However, more large -scale research is needed to confirm these results and determine the optimal dose. It should be noted that L-Arginine can interact with some drugs, so it is important to consult a doctor before taking it.

3. Herbs and plant extracts: tribulus, poppy and Ashvaganda

Many herbs and plant extracts are traditionally used to increase fertility and improve sexual function. Although some of these funds show promising results in research, it is important to remember that scientific data are often limited, and more large -scale and well -planned studies are needed to confirm their effectiveness and safety.

• TRIBULUS TERRERSTRS (Jacobi Still): A plant that is traditionally used to increase libido and improve sexual function. It is assumed that the tribulus increases the level of testosterone, although scientific data on this issue are contradictory. Some studies have shown that tribulus can improve the mobility and number of sperm in men with infertility. However, other studies did not reveal the significant influence of the tribulus on sperm parameters. More large -scale research is needed to determine the efficiency and safety of the tribulus to increase male fertility.
• Maka Peruvian (Lepidium Meyenii): A plant that grows in the Andes in Peru and is traditionally used to increase energy, libido and fertility. Studies have shown that poppy can improve mobility and number of sperm, as well as increase libido. Maca is considered safe for most people, but additional studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness and determine the optimal dose.
• Ashwaganda (withania somnifera): Ayurvedic plant, which is traditionally used to reduce stress, improve energy and increase fertility. Ashvaganda has adaptogenic properties, that is, helps the body adapt to stress. Studies have shown that Ashvagand can improve the quantity, mobility and morphology of sperm, as well as increase testosterone levels. Ashvaganda is considered safe for most people, but additional studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness and determine the optimal dose. Ashvaganda should be avoided for people with autoimmune diseases.
• Palmetto creeping (Serenoa repens): Plant extract, often used to treat symptoms of benign prostate hyperplasia (DHCH). Some studies show that Palmetto creeping can influence hormonal balance, but its direct influence on fertility requires additional research. Some men report an improvement in sexual function when taking palmetto creeping, but these data are anecdotal in nature.
• Ginseng (Panax Ginseng): It is traditionally used to increase energy, improve cognitive functions and increase libido. Some studies have shown that ginseng can improve the quantity and mobility of spermatozoa. However, more large -scale studies are needed to confirm these results. Ginseng can interact with some drugs, so it is important to consult a doctor before taking it.

4. Vitamin D and male fertility: the importance of an adequate level

Vitamin D is a fat -soluble vitamin that plays an important role in the regulation of many biological processes, including bone health, immune function and fertility. Vitamin D receptors are present in the reproductive organs of men, which indicates its possible role in spermatogenesis and hormonal balance.

Vitamin D deficiency is widespread, especially in regions with limited sunlight. Studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency can be associated with a decrease in sperm quality, including a decrease in the quantity, mobility and morphology of sperm. Some studies have shown that vitamin D additives can improve sperm parameters in men with vitamin D deficiency. However, the research results are ambiguous, and more large -scale RCTs are necessary to finally confirm its effectiveness.

The recommended dose of vitamin D varies depending on the age, state of health and level of vitamin D in the blood. It is important to take a blood test to determine your vitamin D level and consult a doctor to determine the optimal dose.

5. Other dietary supplements and their potential influence

In addition to the above, there are a number of other dietary supplements that were studied on the subject of their potential influence on male fertility.

• Folic acid (vitamin B9): An important vitamin for the health of cells and DNA synthesis. Folic acid deficiency may be associated with damage to sperm DNA. Studies have shown that folic acid supplements can improve the amount and mobility of sperm. Folic acid is often taken with zinc.
• L-Lisin and L-Proline: Amino acids that are components of collagen. Some studies show that their combination can have a positive effect on the function of the prostate gland.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Unsaturated fatty acids that play an important role in cell health and decrease in inflammation. Studies have shown that the supplements of omega-3 fatty acids can improve sperm mobility.
• Food fibers (fiber): They contribute to maintaining a healthy level of blood sugar and improve the general health of health, which indirectly can have a positive effect on fertility.

6. The importance of consulting a doctor and warning

Although many dietary supplements are considered safe, it is important to consult a doctor before starting them, especially if you have any health problems, you take medicines or plan a pregnancy. Bad can interact with medicines and have side effects. It is important to choose dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers who adhere to strict quality standards.

Some dietary supplements can be harmful in large doses. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and not exceed it. Some dietary supplements may contain impurities or ingredients that are not indicated on the label. It is important to check the label and choose dietary supplements from trusted manufacturers.

It is important to understand that dietary supplements are not a replacement for a healthy lifestyle. Healthy nutrition, regular physical exercises, rejection of smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as well as stress management – all these are important factors for maintaining male fertility.

7. Sperm analysis: the key to evaluating the effectiveness of dietary supplements

Sperm analysis is the main method of assessing male fertility. It includes the measurement of the quantity, mobility and morphology of sperm, as well as other sperm parameters. Before taking dietary supplements and after a certain period of admission, it is recommended to analyze sperm to evaluate their effectiveness. It is important to remember that various factors can affect the results of sperm analysis, such as abstinence, health status and lifestyle.

8. Future research areas

Further research is needed to determine the effectiveness and safety of various dietary supplements to increase male fertility. Future research should be more ambitious, well -planned and included control groups so that more reliable conclusions can be drawn. It is also necessary to conduct research to determine the optimal doses and duration of dietary supplements, as well as to identify the subgroups of men who may be most beneficial from their reception. It is also important to investigate the interaction between different dietary supplements and their influence on various sperm parameters.

9. A comprehensive approach to male fertility

It is important to understand that dietary supplements are only one of the aspects of an integrated approach to male fertility. Improving the lifestyle, treatment of the underlying diseases and the use of auxiliary reproductive technologies (ART), such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), may be necessary to achieve pregnancy. It is important to work with a doctor in order to develop an individual treatment plan, which best corresponds to your needs.

10. Final thoughts

The influence of dietary supplements on male fertility is a complex and multifaceted topic. Although some dietary supplements show promising results in research, it is important to remember that scientific data are often limited, and more large -scale and well -planned studies are needed to confirm their effectiveness and safety. It is important to consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplements, especially if you have any health problems, you take medicines or plan a pregnancy. Bad is not a replacement for a healthy lifestyle and can be only one of the aspects of an integrated approach to male fertility. An integrated approach that includes a healthy lifestyle, treatment of underlying diseases and the use of ARTs may be necessary to achieve pregnancy.