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LMU 222 – Boosting Male Fertility: The Role of Antioxidant Supplements

Antioxidant Supplements Can Reverse Male Infertility Problems

Boosting Male Fertility: The Role of Antioxidant Supplements

Source: International Journal of Reproductive Biomedicine (2016)

Lifestyle Medicine Update (December 8, 2021)

Introduction:

Male infertility affects millions of couples worldwide, contributing to over 50% of infertility cases. Recent studies have revealed a promising solution: specific antioxidant supplements can reverse male infertility issues in a significant number of cases. This article explores the science behind this breakthrough and provides insights into safeguarding male reproductive health.

 The Troubling World of Male Infertility

Infertility, characterized by the inability to conceive despite regular, unprotected sexual intercourse for at least a year, poses a significant challenge for more than 70 million couples worldwide. Surprisingly, male factors account for at least half of all infertility cases. Various factors, including radiation exposure, smoking, varicocele, infections, environmental toxins, nutritional deficiencies, and oxidative stress, contribute to male infertility. This oxidative stress occurs when the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) exceeds the body’s natural antioxidant defences, particularly in oxygen-dependent tissues like the testes and sperm cells within them.

Oxidative Stress and Male Fertility: A Damaging Duo

Sperm cells are particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress due to their outer membrane’s high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). This vulnerability can lead to issues such as decreased sperm motility, DNA damage, and mitochondrial dysfunction, all of which are implicated in male infertility problems.

The Role of Antioxidants in Semen

Seminal fluid contains natural antioxidants, including vitamin E, vitamin C, superoxide dismutase, glutathione, and thioredoxin, which neutralize free radicals and protect sperm from ROS. However, infertile men often exhibit lower antioxidant capacity in their semen, leading to increased sperm damage and infertility.

Antioxidant Supplementation: A Promising Solution

A review paper published in the International Journal of Reproductive Biomedicine in December 2016 sheds light on clinical studies where antioxidant supplements have effectively reversed male infertility. For example, daily supplementation with vitamin C (200 mg) and vitamin E (200 IU) increased spontaneous pregnancy rates by over 10% in previously infertile men. These supplements also improved sperm motility, reduced free radical end products in seminal fluid, decreased DNA damage in sperm cells, and demonstrated other signs of enhanced sperm integrity.

Other Beneficial Supplements

In addition to vitamin C and vitamin E, minerals like zinc and selenium, as well as comprehensive vitamin and mineral supplements, have shown promise in improving sperm counts, motility, and integrity. Coenzyme Q10, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), and L-Carnitine have also demonstrated positive effects on sperm quality in various studies.

Guarding Against Testicular Cancer: A Compelling Bonus

Testicular cancer is a significant concern for men, with a lifetime risk of 1 in 250. This cancer, most common among males in their 30s, shares a susceptibility to free radical damage with sperm cells. This suggests a potential link between antioxidant supplementation and the prevention of testicular cancer.

The Need for Daily Supplementation

Considering the potential benefits for both fertility and testicular health, it’s advisable for males over the age of 15 to incorporate a high-potency multiple vitamin and mineral supplement into their daily routine. Such a supplement should provide 500-1000 mg of vitamin C, 400 IU of vitamin E, 200 mcg of selenium, 15 mg of zinc, a B-50 complex, and a full spectrum of other vitamins and minerals at optimal doses.

Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Male Fertility

While many fertility clinics focus on the detrimental effects of smoking and alcohol on sperm quality, the positive impact of specific vitamin, mineral, and antioxidant supplements often goes overlooked. As research continues to unveil the potential of these supplements in enhancing sperm quality and reversing male infertility, incorporating them into one’s daily regimen becomes an appealing strategy for safeguarding reproductive health and overall well-being.

References

  1. Ahmadi S et al. “Antioxidant supplements and semen parameters: An evidence-based review.” Int J Reprod Biomed. 2016, 14(12): 729-736 [Link](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5203687/).
  1. Asadi N et al. “The impact of oxidative stress on testicular function and the role of antioxidants in improving it: A review.” J Clin Diagn Res. 2017, 11(5): IE01 – IE05 [Link](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5483704/).
 
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Dr. Meschino

Dr. James Meschino

Dr. James Meschino

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. James Meschino, DC, MS, ROHP, is an educator, author, and researcher having lectured to thousands of healthcare professionals across North America. He holds a Master’s Degree in Science with specialties in human nutrition and biology and is recognized as an expert in the field of nutrition, anti-aging, fitness, and wellness as well as the author of numerous books.

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