Breaking Barriers: A Deep Dive Into Male Infertility and Its Path to Hope
For couples wishing to conceive, it is crucial that both parents prepare for conception and optimize their health to enhance the chances of a successful pregnancy and birth. This preparation is increasingly important today, given the rising rates of infertility, miscarriage, and birth defects.
Many men trying to become fathers face health challenges due to poor diets, nutrient deficiencies, too much toxin exposure, obesity, and stressful or inactive lifestyles. These issues can harm sperm health, reducing the amount, movement, and overall quality of sperm, making it harder to fertilize an egg. As a result, a father’s sperm health plays a big role in infertility and miscarriage rates.
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Infertility is characterized by the inability of couples to conceive a child after a year of regular, unprotected intercourse, impacting 10–15% of couples globally.
Recent WHO data reveals that an estimated 50 – 80 million individuals face infertility, with male-related factors accounting for 20 – 30% of all cases. In up to 50% of cases, infertility issues stem solely from the male. According to data, the quality of human semen has deteriorated by 50%–60% over the last 40 years. According to an extensive meta-analysis covering 185 studies, including over 40,000 men from developed countries, the number of spermatozoa, i.e., the main factor determining the quality of semen, decreased by 50%–60% over the period 1973–2011. The preconception period represents a significant window of susceptibility in which environmental conditions, such as chemical exposures, nutrition, drugs, and stress, shape the sperm epigenome, which can have downstream adverse effects on reproductive success and offspring health.
The diagnosis of male infertility primarily relies on semen analysis, which evaluates key parameters such as sperm concentration, appearance, and motility. There are several characteristic features of male infertility, such as oligospermia, i.e., low sperm concentration in semen; asthenozoospermia, i.e., an absolute lack of motility or a decreased motility of spermatozoa; and teratozoospermia, i.e., an insufficient number of spermatozoa of normal structure. When a man ejaculates, the semen typically contains about 180 million sperm, with around 66 million sperm in each milliliter. If ejaculation hasn’t happened in a while, the sperm count can be even higher—sometimes over 400 million.
The causes of male infertility are diverse and may include hormonal imbalances, physical conditions such as obesity or physical abnormalities associated with sperm production and delivery, lifestyle factors such as being sedentary, psychological issues, sexual dysfunctions such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, low hormone levels such as testosterone and prolactin, medication use such as steroids, vaccines, chromosomal abnormalities, and single-gene defects to environmental toxin exposures, toxic body burdens and associated nutrient deficiencies and poor dietary selections.
To understand the issues and problems associated with infertility, it is important to first discuss some key elements of male fertility. Human reproductive organs are categorized into primary and secondary organs. Primary reproductive organs include the gonads, which are responsible for gamete and hormone production. Secondary organs include ducts and glands, which engage in the growth, maturation, and transmission of gametes.
The testicles are the main male reproductive organs, found inside the scrotum. They have two parts: tubes called seminiferous tubules and tissue between the tubes. The tissue between the tubules includes blood vessels, immune cells, nerves, and Leydig cells, which produce testosterone and another hormone important for male development.
Seminiferous tubules make up most of the testicles and are where sperm are produced. These tubules contain two types of cells: Sertoli cells, which help sperm grow and provide support, and spermatogenic cells, which develop into sperm. Sertoli cells also release hormones that control sperm production and help clean up damaged cells. In adults, Sertoli cells do not divide anymore, but they form tight junctions with each other, creating what’s called the Blood-Testis Barrier (BTB).
The BTB has two key jobs: it separates the developing sperm cells from the immune system to protect them, and it creates a special environment for sperm to grow and mature.
Sperm Development
Sperm cells are the male reproductive cells responsible for creating new life when they combine with a female egg cell. The egg cell, also known as an ovum, carries the female’s genetic material.
Sperm’s main job is to travel to the egg and join with it. This process passes the male’s genetic information to the egg, resulting in the creation of a fertilized egg, called a zygote. This zygote then begins developing into a baby. Sperm cells are tiny and shaped like tadpoles, designed to carry the genetic code needed for reproduction. The process of making sperm, called spermatogenesis, is essential to male fertility. The first step in this process is for the male body to produce the necessary hormones to support sperm development.
The three main hormones are: Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing hormone (LH) both made by the pituitary gland in the brain. LH promotes testosterone production in the testicles, and FSH stimulates testicular growth and helps sperm mature.
Once your body has made enough hormones, sperm begins to develop within a system of tiny tubes called seminiferous tubules inside your testicles. Even minor disruptions in this process can lead to infertility in men. Spermatogenesis describes how sperm cells grow and mature within the seminiferous tubules of the testicles. It starts with immature cells called spermatogonia which form from stem cells in the seminiferous tubules.
Spermatogonia, the cells that will eventually become mature sperm, start their journey on the outer edge of the seminiferous tubules in the testicles. As they develop, these cells move closer to the central part of the tubule and attach to Sertoli cells, which provide support and nourishment. The first step in their development involves growing larger and adding more components like cytoplasm and organelles, which are essential structures within the cell.
After a resting phase, these primary sperm cells divide and become secondary sperm cells. During this division, the number of chromosomes is cut in half—from 46 in the primary cells to 23 in the secondary cells. This reduction is important because when a sperm cell with 23 chromosomes combines with an egg, which also has 23 chromosomes, the resulting cell has the correct total of 46 chromosomes, blending traits from both parents.
The entire process of developing a mature sperm cell takes about 74 days and relies on signals from the three main hormones follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), Luteinizing hormone and testosterone as well as local cues within the testicles. Once fully developed, these sperm are ready to play their role in reproduction.
What leads to infertility?
There are several reasons for male infertility, the most important of which are: Hormonal deficits, physical issues including obesity and diabetes, sexual issues, toxicity, oxidative stress, gut health and microbiome, environment and lifestyle including elevated stress, poor nutrition, body temperature, and genetic and epigenetic factors.
Hormonal deficits
The male reproductive system relies on a group of glands working together, called the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. This system includes the brain (hypothalamus), the pituitary gland, and testes. They work together to ensure the right balance of hormones for male sexual development and fertility. If there’s a problem with this system, such as the brain not producing enough gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), it can lead to low testosterone levels and stop the production of sperm, which might cause infertility. Stress and anxiety can have deleterious effects on hormonal balance and therefore adopting a stress-free lifestyle is important and to participate in stress relieving practices such as meditation, gentle exercise and so on.
Physical issues can interfere with sperm production or block the pathway for sperm to be released. One common problem is varicocele, which is when veins in the scrotum become enlarged and affect sperm production, a condition affecting about 40% of men with infertility issues. Testicular torsion, where the testicle twists and cuts off its blood supply, can also cause damage. Infections in the genital area, either long-term or sudden, can also lead to infertility. For example, mumps can cause the testicles to shrink and reduce fertility, while sexually transmitted diseases like gonorrhea and chlamydia can block the tubes that carry sperm. In some cases, sperm may go into the bladder instead of being released, a condition called retrograde ejaculation, which can happen because of problems with the bladder muscle and accounts for about 2% of infertility cases.
Sedentary lifestyles and Obesity have become a major health issue affecting both adults and children. In people who are overweight, their hormone system, which includes the brain and reproductive organs, can get out of balance. This often leads to higher levels of estrogen (a hormone) and lower levels of testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which are all important for healthy sperm production. White adipose tissue (WAT) produces pro-inflammatory cytokines and Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), the excess of which leads to systemic inflammation with elevations of pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress. Obesity and excessive body weight are also associated with erectile dysfunction and an increased temperature in the scrotum, which may have an adverse effect on spermatogenesis. Obese men also had significantly altered methylation at imprinted loci of sperm compared to lean men. Weight loss in obese men seems to be the first and most basic step in the treatment of male infertility.
Regular exercise may support testosterone levels however intensive exercise has been shown to reduce testosterone levels.
Sexual issues can be both physical and psychological, such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and difficulty ejaculating.
Toxicity
Certain workplace hazards, such as exposure to chemicals, radiation, or high temperatures, can negatively affect male fertility. For instance, radiation can reduce sperm production, and prolonged exposure to extreme heat, like in bakeries, or sitting for long periods, as with drivers, can also have harmful effects. Overdoing sunbathing and heat exposures such as saunas may temporarily lower sperm counts too.
Oxidative stress is an imbalance of free radicals or Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and antioxidants in the body. ROS are molecules with unpaired electrons, while antioxidants are molecules that donate electrons to the ROS to neutralize their damaging effects or directly remove them. These harmful molecules, called free radicals, can come from natural processes in the body, like when cells make energy or when the immune system fights infections. They can also come from outside sources like polluted air, pesticides, chemicals in smoked or fried foods, high heat, and certain drugs. Even everyday things like cooking oil that’s been reused can release these harmful substances.
Oxidative stress is a condition where harmful molecules called reactive oxygen species (ROS) build up in the body, which can damage sperm.
Oxidative stress is thought to contribute to 30%–80% of male infertility cases. ROS can reduce sperm’s ability to move properly and make it harder for them to successfully connect with an egg during fertilization. When sperm cells are exposed to too much oxidative stress, which occurs when harmful molecules called reactive oxygen species (ROS) outweigh the body’s natural defenses, it can harm their membranes, proteins, and even DNA. This damage leads to reduced sperm movement, fewer living sperm, and lower sperm counts. It can also increase the chances of miscarriage or developmental issues in children. Oxidative stress is a major factor linking unhealthy diets and obesity to problems with sperm quality and fertility. It is now considered one of the leading causes of male infertility. This happens when the body experiences an imbalance between harmful substances called free radicals and the natural antioxidants that counteract them. Additionally, issues with the energy-producing parts of sperm cells, known as mitochondria, also play a role in reducing sperm health. These factors together can lead to lower semen quality and fertility challenges and reinforce the fact that a diet and supplementation high in antioxidants should be encouraged to combat oxidative damage. Oxidative stress is one of the major mediators in various etiologies of male infertility; it has deleterious effects on spermatozoa, including DNA damage. Alleviation of oxidative stress constitutes a potential treatment strategy for male infertility.
Research on male infertility has shown that a major culprit is oxidative stress, which happens when the body has too many harmful molecules called reactive oxygen species (ROS) or not enough antioxidants to counteract them.
Oxidative stress disrupts the natural balance in the body, making it harder for sperm to stay healthy. Sperm is especially vulnerable because they do not have enough built-in defenses to fight these harmful molecules. This imbalance can harm sperm and reduce their chances of functioning properly.
Gut health and microbiome
Gut health is so vitally important for the digestion of foods and the absorption of nutrients and water but also to support toxin elimination and immune health. The microbiome is also essential in supporting male fertility. Research shows that the gut microbiome, which includes trillions of helpful bacteria in the digestive system, is important for making healthy sperm. If the balance of this microbiome is disrupted by poor diet or environmental factors, it can lead to problems like inflammation, oxidative stress, DNA damage, and reduced sperm production and health. Here are some ways in which the gut microbiome may affect male fertility:
Hormone Balance: Your gut bacteria can influence hormones like testosterone and others that are essential for making healthy sperm.
Reducing Inflammation: When your gut bacteria are out of balance, it can lead to inflammation, which may harm sperm production and quality.
Nutrient Absorption: A healthy gut helps your body absorb nutrients, which are crucial for sperm health. If your gut is not working well, it might limit how much of these nutrients your body can absorb and use.
Boosting Immunity: Your gut bacteria help control your immune system. If this system is not working properly, it can affect fertility.
Managing Weight: Problems with gut bacteria can contribute to obesity, which is linked to hormonal imbalances and inflammation that can harm sperm.
In short, keeping your gut healthy with a balanced diet and lifestyle can make a big difference for male fertility.
Environment and Lifestyle choices play a role as well. Several environmental and lifestyle factors can reduce male fertility. Smoking cigarettes or cannabis, using anabolic steroids, and drinking too much alcohol are known to have a negative impact. Additionally, chronic stress, being exposed to high temperatures for long periods, and wearing tight clothing can harm sperm health. Age, pollution, and a sedentary lifestyle also play a role. Harmful substances like pesticides, toxins, certain medicines used for treating cancers, and heavy metals like cadmium and lead are other major contributors. Even frequent exposure to radiation from electronics or other sources can have adverse effects. Air pollutants, particularly sulfur dioxide, have been shown to affect sperm shape and movement.
Poor nutrition, especially overprocessed foods, sugars and refined carbohydrates, alcohol, diets high in saturated and trans fats and nutrient deficient foods have been linked to lower fertility. Focus must be on organic, natural foods dense in the very nutrients required to support male fertility. Mothers2B discusses the role of nutrition and specific nutrients that support fertility later on.
Body temperature. Did you know that your sperm needs to stay cool to be healthy? That’s why your testicles are outside your body in the scrotum—to keep them at the right temperature for sperm production. If they get too warm, they can’t make as much sperm. To help keep things cool, try wearing loose underwear and pants, avoid spending too much time in saunas, and keep hot objects away from your groin area.
Genetic and Epigenetic Factors
Genetic factors are responsible for about 15% of male infertility cases. These include problems with chromosomes, which are the structures that hold our genetic information, and mutations in single genes. Chromosomal issues occur when there is missing or extra genetic material, or when the arrangement of this material is unusual, making it harder for men to produce healthy sperm. Many of these genetic defects influence hormonal levels such as follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonads (HPG) axis that impacts both hormone imbalances and sperm production. Methylation genes such as MTHFR polymorphism are associated with an increased risk of male infertility.
Changes in the way genes work, called epigenetic factors, can impact male fertility. These changes can affect how sperm are produced and organized. During sperm formation, there are major adjustments, like replacing certain proteins (histones) with others (protamine’s) to ensure proper function. Studies show that men with low sperm counts, or abnormal sperm often have issues with these changes. Additionally, specific genes may have too many chemical tags (methylation), which can interfere with sperm quality and lead to infertility.
How to test for male infertility including sperm health, number and motility?
Medical History and Physical Checkup: Doctors will investigate your health history, including past illnesses, surgeries, or medications that might affect your ability to father a child. They will also consider habits like exercise, smoking, or drug use.
Semen Exam: This test checks the number of sperm in your semen (not less than fifteen million/ml, their motility (asthenospermia), and their shape (teratospermia). A healthy sperm count is at least fifteen million sperm per milliliter of semen.
Genetic Testing: This test checks for any inherited conditions or genetic issues that might affect sperm health. By understanding the genetic factors at play, couples can make informed decisions about their reproductive options.
Hormone Testing: This involves checking levels of important hormones, such as testosterone and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) that play a big role in fertility.
Imaging Studies: Doctors might use tools like ultrasound to scan and ensure your testicles and other reproductive organs are working fine such as the presence of blockages or physical abnormalities in the reproductive system.
Post-Ejaculation Urine Test: This test looks for sperm in your urine after ejaculation. If sperm ends up in your bladder instead of exiting, it could mean a condition called retrograde ejaculation.
Testicular Tissue Exam: A small tissue sample can be taken from the testicles to better understand fertility issues or rule out problems like cancer.
Now is the time to focus on diet and nutrients
The nutrients we consume play a key role in how our bodies function, including producing hormones that are essential for fertility and overall health. A proper balance of these nutrients helps keep systems like the hormone-regulating endocrine system in check. When the balance is off, it can lead to problems such as infertility. Nutrients also directly impact sperm production and development, ensuring healthy growth and maintaining sexual health.
Research shows that as the typical Western diet becomes more common; sperm quality has been getting worse. Eating lots of processed foods, coffee, alcohol (daily alcohol consumption results in the deterioration of both semen volume and sperm morphology), sugary drinks, and sweets, while NOT including enough whole grains, vegetables, fruits, poultry, fish, seafood, nuts, and low-fat dairy, is linked to lower sperm health and reduced fertility. It must also be emphasized that toxins and stress have increased dramatically over the past decades and subsequent nutrient support for all detoxification systems and adrenal health have placed ever increasing demands for specific nutrients to support them.
An unhealthy diet can lead to problems like obesity, diabetes, and hormonal imbalances.
These conditions often cause higher levels of oxidative stress which are Reactive Oxygen Species (unstable molecules) that damage cells and their individual components, which negatively impacts sperm health and fertility. Oxidative stress not only reduces sperm quality but also increases the risk of infertility by affecting hormones and the immune system. Moreover, hyperglycemia (excess blood sugar levels) has a negative impact on sperm motility and the fertilization process.
Spermatogenesis (sperm production) can be negatively impacted by unhealthy fats, like those found in processed and fried foods commonly consumed in Western diets. Research shows that trans fats, unlike healthy fats like polyunsaturated fats, build up in the testes and are linked to poorer sperm quality and lower sperm counts. Trans fats may be associated with reduced testosterone production and testicular mass, as well as the initiation of pathological changes in the testes.
Eating processed meat can harm fertility. This may be because processed meat often contains unhealthy fats, preservatives, and hormone residues that negatively affect sperm health.
Nutritional intervention is an extremely crucial element in the treatment of male infertility related to abnormal sperm parameters. It is important to focus on nutrients that have high antioxidant capacities and nutrients that support sperm production and health. Semen has specific nutrients, so eating foods rich in these nutrients and taking supplements can help support male fertility.
Semen contains a variety of components including acid phosphatase, citric acid, inositol, copper, calcium, zinc, magnesium, and fructose.
Additional elements include seminogelin, vitamins C and E, prostaglandins, carnitine, glycerophosphato-choline, and neutral alpha-glucosidase.
Sperm composition also features proteins, carotenoids, electrolytes such as sodium and potassium, glucose, selenium, urea, lactic acid, and cholesterol.
The pH level of sperm ranges from 7.2 to 8.2, influenced by dietary habits.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants are substances both produced by the body and found in foods that help protect cells from damage. Oxidation is a chemical reaction that can yield free radicals or reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are harmful unstable molecules that can damage the body if levels become too high as they steal electrons from cells or cellular contents. High levels of free radicals cause oxidative stress. Elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) can harm sperm by causing damage to their DNA, breaking down important fats in their membranes, weakening their outer layer, and even leading to cell death. Certain factors, such as immature sperm, specific medical conditions, or exposure to elevated temperatures and toxins, can lead to an overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS). To keep sperm healthy and function properly, it is important to have a balance between ROS and antioxidants, which help neutralize these harmful molecules.
The main endogenous antioxidant enzymes in the body are superoxide dismutase (using copper, zinc, and manganese), catalase (uses iron), and glutathione peroxidase (uses selenium as selenocysteine).
Factors that increase the production of free radicals in the body can be internal, such as inflammation and waste products from metabolism and gut microbes, excessive exercise, or external, for example, chemicals and toxins derived from the intake of non-organic, refined and processed foods and drinks, (trans fats, artificial sweeteners, dyes, additives, preservatives, flavorings and colorants) ,pollution, pesticides, insecticides, drugs, vaccines, UV exposure, industrial solvents, plastics and personal and household chemicals and cigarette smoke.
To reduce the damage and impact on sperm health and fertility caused by oxidative stress and the ever-growing number of contributing chemicals and toxins individuals consume and are exposed to it is imperative that a diet rich in antioxidants and if required, supplementation is consumed to reduce oxidative stress and the damage it will cause.
The Main Antioxidants are:
Vitamin C: Found in citrus fruits (kiwi, oranges, lemons, grapefruits), strawberries, red bell peppers, and broccoli.
Vitamin E: Found in nuts (almonds, hazelnuts), seeds (sunflower seeds), spinach, and vegetable oils (sunflower, safflower).
Carotenoids
Alpha-carotene and beta-carotene: Found in carrots, sweet potatoes, and pumpkins.
Lycopene: Found in tomatoes, watermelon, and pink grapefruit.
Lutein and Zeaxanthin: Found in kale, spinach, and yellow peppers.
Flavonoids such as rutin
Beta-cryptoxanthin: Found in papaya, oranges, and tangerines.
CoQ10 or ubiquinol
Alpha lipoic acid
L-Arginine (an amino acid)
Minerals:
Selenium: Found in Brazil nuts, fish (tuna, salmon), and eggs.
Manganese: Found in whole grains, nuts, and leafy green vegetables.
Zinc: Found in oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds.
Phenolic Compounds:
Quercetin: Found in apples, onions, and berries.
Catechins: Found in green tea and cocoa.
Resveratrol: Found in red grapes and red wine.
Coumaric Acid: Found in peanuts and cherries.
Anthocyanins: Found in blueberries, blackberries, and red cabbage.
Proanthocyanins: Found in cranberries and dark chocolate.
Ellagic Acid: Found in pomegranates, strawberries, and raspberries.
Others:
Glutathione: Found in asparagus, avocados, and spinach.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): Found in fatty fish (mackerel, sardines), organ meats (liver, kidney), and peanuts.
Alpha Lipoic Acid: Found in spinach, broccoli, and potatoes.
Nutrients to support fertility, sperm production, health, and motility
Here are the most important nutrients required to support male infertility so focus on healthy food selections dense in these vitally important nutrients listed below. Mothers2B has designed a Dad2B supplemental support package and associated detox, hormonal and gut support to support your sperm health and production.
Mothers2B has produced a book called “Understanding Nutrients” by Jonathan Tommey and Isabella Yon and is available through Amazon and provides a complete breakdown of each essential nutrient, where to find it, what it does and how much to take on a daily basis to support optimal health and is an essential support for all individuals looking forward to optimal health.
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Zinc plays a significant role in male fertility and is vital for sperm production. Zinc has a significant protective effect on the structure of sperm. The use of zinc in asthenozoospermic patients reduces oxidative stress, apoptosis, and DNA fragmentation of their sperm. The fluid in semen and the prostate gland contains a high amount of zinc, which helps maintain healthy sperm shape, count, and function—key factors needed for successful fertilization. Zinc is also crucial for the development of testes and the production of hormones. Zinc in the testis is crucial for spermatogenesis and the physiology of spermatozoa. A lack of zinc can lead to issues like underdeveloped sexual traits, low sperm count, and poor sperm movement or structure.
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Magnesium is a key element during spermatogenesis and sperm motility.
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Calcium affects the motility, hyperactivation, and capitulation of sperm and, the acrosome reaction, leading to sperm penetration into the oocyte.
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Copper is necessary for the proper functioning of sperm. (Do not exceed Recommended daily allowances as excess may be detrimental)
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Manganese affects the motility of sperm and the fertilization process. (Do not exceed Recommended daily allowances as excess may be detrimental)
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Selenium plays an essential role in protecting sperm from damage caused by oxidative stress and helps improve sperm movement and health. Studies have shown that men with fertility issues often have lower selenium levels in their semen compared to men without such issues. However, both too little and too much selenium can lead to problems with sperm health. Selenium is particularly important because it is involved in the production of certain enzymes and proteins that safeguard and support sperm development. In fact, the testicles contain a significant amount of selenium in a specific form essential for normal sperm production. Selenium can protect sperm DNA from oxidative stress damage, though the mechanism is not yet clear. Selenium’s antioxidant properties enhance the function of glutathione, as selenium is a key component of selenoenzymes.
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Semen contains much higher levels of vitamin C than blood, making it a strong antioxidant. It helps protect sperm by neutralizing harmful molecules that can damage their DNA and other vital components. Research shows that adding vitamin C (and vitamin E) to semen can reduce DNA damage caused by oxidative stress in men with healthy and less active sperm. Vitamin C also supports sperm mobility.
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Vitamin E, also known as α-tocopherol, is a type of fat-soluble nutrient that plays a significant role in protecting sperm. Found mostly in cell membranes, it helps neutralize harmful molecules like free radicals, stopping them from damaging the delicate fats in these membranes. Studies indicate that higher vitamin E levels in semen improve sperm movement.
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This is the body’s most powerful antioxidant, the primary detoxifier and essential to neutralize damage caused by oxidative stress. It also helps preserve all other antioxidants. Essential during spermatogenesis and the health of the sperm.
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Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin and antioxidant and required to make male hormones and supports the male genital tract and spermatogenesis.
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B vitamins (especially B2, B5 and B6 and folic acid)
B vitamins as a complex i.e. all B vitamins taken together support the balance of B vitamin intake and some are associated with improved fertility, and support impotence.
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Coenzyme Q10, often called CoQ10, is thought to play an important role in improving sperm quality. It acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage, and helps with energy production, which is crucial for sperm movement. Interestingly, CoQ10 can also rejuvenate other antioxidants like vitamins C and E. Studies have found that men taking CoQ10 supplements showed higher levels of it in their semen, along with improved sperm count and movement compared to those who took a placebo. A correlation was observed between Co Q10 treatment duration and sperm count, as well as sperm motility and morphology. CoQ10 supports sperm motility and is an antioxidant molecule. Interestingly, CoQ10 inhibits the formation of superoxide, providing protection against Oxidative stress induced sperm dysfunction.
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Taurine can promote endocrine function of the hypothalamus-pituitary-testis axis, testicular tissue development, spermatogenesis and maturation and delay the aging of testicular function. Taurine also reduces oxidative damage to the male reproductive system by exogenous toxins such as drugs, environmental pollutants and radiation it also enhances sperm mitochondrial function and supports sperm motility.
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Supports sperm volume, concentration, motility and morphology by increasing nitric oxide activity which plays a significant role in male fertility and the reproductive system. It reduces oxidative damage to fats especially when used with vitamin E.
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L-Carnitine is an important nutrient that can benefit sperm health. It helps sperm mature and move effectively by supplying them with energy. This process involves moving specific fats to mitochondria, which function as energy producers in cells. Carnitines improve sperm motility and production of normal-shaped sperm cells but do not affect sperm count or pregnancy rates.
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Lycopene, found in tomatoes, reduces cell damage and boosts sperm health. It can help protect sperm from harm, boost the immune system, and increase the number of healthy sperm. Research also suggests that consuming lycopene may improve the shape and structure of sperm, which is vital for fertility. Lycopene exhibits significant ROS-scavenging and antioxidant properties, which may prevent sperm lesions caused by oxidative stress and preserve the functionality of male reproductive cells.
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N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a nutrient that helps the body produce glutathione, an important antioxidant that protects cells from damage. When men with fertility issues added NAC to their diet for three months, studies showed improvements in sperm quality. These included better sperm movement, healthier shapes, and fewer damaged DNA strands. NAC increased testosterone and reduced hormone levels affecting fertility, such as FSH and LH. Overall, NAC supplementation appears to help boost sperm health and overall reproductive function. Selenium and N-acetyl-cysteine support sperm concentration, sperm motility and normal morphology.
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Folic acid has been shown to support sperm count especially when combined with zinc as they are used in spermatogenesis. Folic acid also supports sperm motility by aiding in the production of energy required for sperm movement. Folic acid also maintains the integrity of the sperm DNA and improves sperm quality and overall fertility which are key to optimizing a successful conception. 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate (methyl folate, 5-MTHF, or (6S)-5-MTHF), as the most bioavailable source has been evaluated as a better alternative to folic-acid supplementation. This is particularly important if polymorphisms exist with specific methylation genes such as methylenetetrahydrofolatereductase (MTHFR). Supplementation with active folate 5-MTHF bypasses the entire folate metabolization, which is potentially impaired by MTHFR polymorphism, and 5-MTHF is directly absorbed to exert biological activity. Therefore, using 5-MTHF as a food supplement instead of FA is strongly recommended for external supplementation.
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Omega 3 fatty acids found in foods like fish, nuts, and seeds, play a vital role in boosting sperm health. These fats help reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage. Sperm, compared to other cells in the body, have a higher amount of healthy fats in their membranes, which are crucial for fertilization. Research shows that omega-3s can improve sperm count, shape, and movement. They also work by building the sperm membrane, helping it function better. Taking supplements with omega-3s, particularly EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), can lead to better sperm movement and higher levels of DHA in semen.
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Studies have shown that taking Withania somnifera, also known as Indian ginseng, can significantly improve sperm health in men with low sperm count (oligospermia). After 90 days of treatment, participants saw an increase of 167% in sperm concentration, 59% in semen volume, and 57% in sperm movement. Hormone levels also improved, with testosterone rising by 17% and luteinizing hormone increasing by 34%.
A review of previous studies also found consistent improvements in sperm quality, including more sperm overall, better movement, and increased semen volume. In men with normal sperm levels, there was even a 14% success rate in achieving pregnancy. The treatment also enhanced antioxidant levels in the body and improved biomarkers of oxidative stress, which are associated with fertility.
Look at our associated “Understanding Nutrients” book and go through each of the listed nutrients above that support male fertility and see if you have deficiency symptoms associated with each one. This will give greater clarity with these essential nutrients and what ones you are deficient in.
Below is an example of zinc with the following deficiency symptoms:
Frequent infections
Loss of appetite
Fatigue
Loss of taste and smell
Acne or greasy skin
Peeling, thin, or white spots on nails
Slow wound healing
Eczema
Night blindness
Low sperm count
Look at lifestyle
Living a healthy lifestyle is important for your physical and mental well-being. A healthy lifestyle is all about making the right choices that promote good health and overall well-being.
Eat a highly diverse organic diet and consume at least 8 glasses of pure water per day.
Take regular gentle exercise.
Get adequate sleep – aiming for 8 hours per night.
Manage stress. Remove as many daily stressors as possible and focus on Deep breathing, Meditation, Progressive muscle relaxation as examples of stress management techniques.
Look at the toxic burden and exposure
Over the past 50 years, studies have shown a steady drop in male fertility, and the reasons go beyond just factors like weight, genetics, or lifestyle. One tremendous change during this time is how much we are exposed to synthetic chemicals in our everyday lives. Thousands of these chemicals are used around us — some are harmless, but many can disrupt the body’s systems that control sperm production. In fact, a lot of these chemicals, such as phthalates and organophosphates, have been linked to harmful effects on fertility and have even been banned or restricted in some countries because they are toxic and can cause other health issues like cancer. With over 80,000 chemicals registered for use in the U.S. alone, and 2,000 new ones introduced each year, it is important to be aware of how these exposures might affect male reproductive health.
Pesticides and insecticides seem to harm sperm quality more than the healthy nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables can help. This highlights the importance of choosing food from trustworthy sources when planning your daily diet.
Look at food labels and ingredients and avoid all chemicals added, remove all junk food with added colorants, flavorings, additives, preservatives and remove all personal and home products that contain chemicals as these can impact male fertility and the quality and health of the sperm.
In Summary
The treatment of male infertility depends on the underlying cause and the results of the diagnostic tests. Mothers2B aims to provide information that supports sperm production, motility and shape in advance of conception and focuses on many body systems and approaches. It is imperative for all men looking to conceive to follow essential health restoring steps including the removal of toxin exposure and detoxification, supporting gut health and its microbiome, balancing and optimizing essential fertility hormones, optimizing nutrient availability from healthy organic foods to supporting your lifestyles by managing stress and doing some gentle exercise and if overweight or obese to address that immediately.
Our goal is to optimize health in advance of conception and to support the production of healthy sperm to support fertility, the chances of a successful conception and fundamentally a strong healthy baby.
We cover all sections here on our website and our book, “Understanding Nutrients” is available on Amazon to help you understand where to find the nutrients and how much to take plus our functional and integrative practitioners are there to help you with one to one private consultations.
Mothers2B offers the Nutrient deficiency Symptom Assessment and Diet and Lifestyle and Toxin Assessment both FREE on our mothers2B website to help you learn about what you are currently doing right or wrong with regards to your diet, lifestyle and toxic exposure and the nutrients you may be already deficient in. Mothers2B also offers excellent guidance with obesity and weight management, detoxification and gut support to name just a few plus some professional supplementation packages to help.
Overall, healthy habits and avoiding harmful exposures are key for maintaining fertility. Working with a qualified functional and integrative practitioner will help you identify your sperm production, health, motility and identify causative factors that may be contributing to infertility and support you with a specific protocol. If you are struggling, then please reach out to us and book a one-to-one consultation. It may be the best decision you will ever make.
Prospective fathers should complete our Diet, Lifestyle, and Toxin (DLT) assessment to evaluate their diet, lifestyle, and toxin exposure.
The Diet, Lifestyle and Toxin (DLT) Self Assessment aims to prepare your family for life’s greatest blessing: a successful conception, pregnancy, and birth, and ultimately a healthy baby. We believe that the greatest influencing factors on your health and the health of your baby involve your diet (D), lifestyle (L) and toxin (T) exposure, and we have created the DLT Self Assessment for you to assess these aspects of your life. There is no better time to adopt a healthier change!
Prospective fathers should complete our Nutrient Deficiency Symptom Assessment (NDSA) to identify nutrient deficiencies.
The Nutrient Deficiency Symptom Assessment (NDSA) helps you identify your deficient nutrients. This is very important as the nutrients in your body are essential to your and your baby's health. The NDSA provides three pages of the essential 29 nutrients the body requires, each with associated deficiency symptoms for you to work through carefully. Find out what nutrients you may be lacking and what you can do to reverse those deficiencies and support your symptoms for optimal health.
Our Male Fertility Basic Support package offers essential nutrients to support healthy sperm production, count, and motility. The Male Fertility Basic Support package has been designed to provide essential nutrients required in advance of conception for Dad2B. This package is used as a basic support package providing a foundation for health and includes vitamins, anti-oxidants such as Vitamin C and CoQ10, minerals, trace elements, essential fatty acids (EFA’s), and Organic Ashwaganda by Himalaya Wellness, to support sperm production, motility and sperm count and probiotics. This package is also designed to support the nutrient deficiency symptom assessment (NDSA).
Male Fertility Basic
Support Package
Our Male Fertility Complete Support package offers essential nutrients to support healthy sperm production, count, and motility. The Male Fertility Complete Support package has been designed to provide all the essential nutrients required in advance of conception for Dad2B. This package is used as a general support package providing a foundation for health and includes vitamins, anti-oxidants such as Vitamin C and CoQ10, minerals, trace elements, essential fatty acids (EFA’s), specific amino acids including L-Arginine, L-Carnitine, L- Taurine, to support sperm production, motility and sperm count and probiotics. This package is also designed to support the nutrient deficiency symptom assessment (NDSA).
Male Fertility Complete
Support Package
References and Links
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