Before resorting to any treatment suggested by the internet or friends, colleagues and family, it is important to investigate the cause of existing fertility issues. As such, some people suggest to “relax, exercise, take some antioxidants and it will happen”. However, while stress management and exercise are important, supplements should be taken carefully despite them being readily available. As with every nutrient, there is an optimal level every individual should have, but antioxidants in particular can have a significant effect on the oxidation-reduction potential (sORP). The sORP is essential for biochemical processes transcending during fertilisation, including hyperactivation and the acrosome reaction of the sperm. Thus, should this level be too low, these processes may be impaired. On the other hand, should these levels be too high, it may suggest that there are increased oxidant levels in the seminal plasma, potentially due to infection (polymorphnuclear leucocytes) which can induce oxidative stress. This in turn can lead to DNA fragmentation which exacerbates embryo development.
What Are The Best Supplements to Boost Male Fertility (Evidence-Based)?
Supplements overall do have their place throughout the fertility journey, as studies have overall shown that most western countries tend to lack nutrients. A common supplement suggested to men who are trying to conceive is Proxeedâ Plus. This soluble supplement contains vitamins and minerals including L-carnitine, Acetyl-L-carnitine and folic acid. These nutrients support natural metabolic processes involved in hormone regulation and sperm production, thus supporting sperm during their development with simultaneous protection from oxidative stress.
Zinc and Fertility: What the Research Says
In addition to a multivitamin and depending on blood test results, it may be suggested to the patient to supplement zinc. Zinc is a trace element that cannot be made or stored in the body and thus needs to be supplemented. It acts as a hormone balancer, maintains epithelial integrity and has a regulatory role in capacitation and the acrosome reaction (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6010824/pdf/JRI-19-69.pdf). While zinc can be supplemented, it can also be consumed through foods including meat, legumes, whole grain products and nuts. This reiterates the need for a healthy, balanced diet.
Further suggestions for supplementation that may benefit sperm quality is Omega-3 fatty acids as well as folic acids. Omega-3 is a component of sperm membranes and therefore contributes to the fluidity and integrity of it, affecting the molecules let into the sperm as well as the sperm’s binding properties to the egg. It has further shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Folic acid is essential for synthesis and repair of DNA and may therefore improve semen parameters associated to DNA defects, including motility.
How Does Alcohol Affect Male Fertility?
Occasionally, people enquire about the effect of alcohol on fertility. Moderate alcohol intake may not significantly affect sperm quality, however binge drinking and regular consumption can negatively affect sperm motility, concentration and morphology. It can further alter hormone levels, including testosterone which further affects semen parameters. Alcohol can also increase the production of reactive oxygen species, which in excessive levels can impact DNA integrity. Keeping alcohol intake to a minimum when trying to conceive can therefore play a role in optimising fertility.
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