There are various factors that contribute to infertility, such as low sperm count, abnormal motility and poor morphology. Some men can increase sperm counts by following healthy lifestyle habits and taking specific supplements; other men may require further help.
Antioxidant supplements may help limit oxidative stress damage to sperm DNA. One study discovered that supplementation with CoQ10 for 28 weeks improved total sperm count, concentration and motility among men with azoospermia.
Vitamin C:
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that protects sperm from damage and improves semen quality, potentially helping with concentration and motility. You can find Vitamin C naturally occurring in fruits and vegetables such as guava, oranges, strawberries, tomatoes, bell peppers, broccoli, papaya kiwi melons etc. However supplements also contain it and L-carnitine selenium and Vitamin E can all provide additional support against reactive oxygen species (ROS) created during oxidative stress that damage cells.
Studies have revealed that diets rich in vitamin C, fenugreek seeds and coenzyme Q10 may help improve sperm count, motility and morphology as well as increasing fertility by decreasing male factors that cause infertility. While additional research needs to be completed into how such vitamins and supplements affect male health products.
Fenugreek:
Fenugreek is a natural supplement that may help improve both sperm count and motility, thanks to its abundance of antioxidants, vitamin C and folate. Additionally, this may have some anti-inflammatory benefits; since dietary supplements aren't regulated like drugs are, it's important that products that have been tested by an independent third party.
One study reported that men taking 600 mg daily of fenugreek extract reported improved sexual performance and libido. This extract contained D-aspartic acid, which experts believe can help with low testosterone levels that cause fertility issues.
Other supplements which have been found beneficial for sperm health include L-carnitine, coenzyme Q10, zinc and vitamins C and E. Studies indicate that these nutrients can improve sperm morphology, concentration and motility.
Diets rich in fruits and vegetables, limited alcohol intake, regular physical exercise, stress management techniques and taking certain supplements have all been found to boost sperm count. It is also important to avoid medications known to reduce healthy sperm counts such as birth control pills, steroids, some antibiotics or v2 ajmali which have all been proven harmful for healthy sperm production.
Coenzyme Q10:
Coenzyme Q10 is a compound that reduces oxidative damage to cells and promotes cell growth, making it useful in the treatment of various health conditions including heart failure, high blood pressure and cancer. Studies suggest it could also protect the brain against neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Furthermore, research suggests coenzyme Q10 could increase sperm count and motility and improve their morphology and concentration as well as prevent oxidative damage to eggs and sperm that causes low sperm count and fertility problems.
CoQ10 supplements have been demonstrated in multiple randomized trials to significantly lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, in those at increased risk for cardiovascular disease. They may also help decrease inflammation by inhibiting cytokine production and decreasing endothelial dysfunction.
However, it should be remembered that many herbal/health supplements do not adhere to stringent manufacturing standards and therefore, may contain harmful toxic metals or drugs and must only be taken under medical guidance.
Maca root:
Maca root, native to the Andes Mountains, has long been used to stimulate both male and female sexual desire and improve fertility. Some studies indicate it may even help increase sperm count and motility - although more research needs to be conducted before definitive conclusions can be drawn from such preliminary research findings.
Studies indicate that maca root could potentially reduce menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and sleep disruption. Before taking maca root supplements, however, it's essential to consult a Banner Health specialist for guidance and akseer e kiram.
As with anything, taking too much maca root can have adverse side effects. Exceeding recommended dosage increases your risk of stomach irritation and diarrhea, fatigue, headaches or any combination thereof being the result. Therefore it is highly advised that any individual consume maca root before consulting a naturopath regarding possible consumption purposes.
L-arginine:
L-arginine is a semi-essential amino acid found in many foods and protein-rich products such as poultry, fish and dairy products. Once consumed it's converted to nitric oxide in your body which improves blood flow by relaxing blood vessels; plus it plays an essential role in cell function and protein synthesis processes as well as protecting cells against damage by oxidation. Furthermore, L-arginine acts as an antioxidant protecting cells against damage due to oxidation.
Animal studies have demonstrated that taking oral supplements of arginine increases sperm count and motility. This may be attributed to its conversion into nitric oxide which then helps increase blood flow through the testes and aid in sperm formation; additionally it protects them from lipid peroxidation which causes low sperm counts.
Researchers conducted this research study over 30 days with 30 rams by administering rumen-protected L-arginine. They observed sperm count, motility and semen quality changes over this timeframe and observed significant increases in all three parameters as a result of using L-arginine for reproductive support. Testosterone levels also saw significant increases, as well as glutathione peroxidase.