Many men seek out supplements to boost sperm count and quality. Some men use Coenzyme Q10, others take folic acid, and still others are on a mission to find a supplement that will work best for them. However, what does work for one man may not be the best solution for another. Below, we will explore the different vitamins and minerals available to boost sperm count and quality.
Coenzyme Q10
The oxidative stress that many infertile men suffer from affects sperm production. However, by supplementing sperm with Coenzyme Q10, men can significantly reduce this stress. COQ10 is a natural antioxidant that supports metabolism and protects cells from free radical damage. Free radicals are unstable atoms that can be formed from bodily processes, environmental pollution, or chemicals. Over time, these free radicals can damage cells and cause illness, and they can also negatively affect sperm quality and quantity.
Inositol
There are many benefits of inositol, such as its ability to facilitate cell membrane formation and neurogenesis, which may be helpful for male fertility. Besides improving male fertility, inositol can improve brain health, skin and sexual health. In fact, it may even reduce signs of depression and anxiety. Supplementation with inositol can also help regulate blood sugar levels. Even though this substance has only mild benefits for male fertility, there’s no harm in taking a small amount to boost sperm count and quality.
Folic acid
Previous studies have shown that a combination of folic acid and zinc can increase sperm count and quality. However, the results of the latest study have been mixed. While the supplementation of folic acid with zinc increased sperm count, there was no significant difference in the rate of live birth. However, the study also found that folic acid and zinc did not increase sperm quality, which may indicate that the supplement does not improve sperm quality.
Zinc sulfate
There are several reasons why men need to consume more zinc to increase sperm count and quality. The male body has different functions that make up sperm, and researchers are still trying to figure out exactly what happens to make them fertile. Men who are underweight may not have enough zinc in their diet, and too much of this mineral may affect their testosterone levels, which could result in problems conceiving. A recent meta-analysis revealed that a decrease in zinc intake in men who are infertile had a significant impact on their sperm count and quality.
Fish oil
Research shows that omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil can increase sperm count and improve the quality of sperm. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for the membranes of sperm cells, and increased intake is linked with higher sperm count and larger testes. These fatty acids have many benefits for men in general, but they have the greatest impact on poor sperm quality and count.
EPA
One way to boost sperm count and quality is by taking EPA and DHA supplements. Studies have shown that omega-3 supplements can improve the quality and quantity of sperm, and can also reduce the levels of DFI, a contaminant that is often associated with male infertility. Fish oil is the best way to get adequate amounts of these fats. Taking EPA and DHA supplements also increases folic acid intake, an essential vitamin that is critical for the development of cells. Folic acid is necessary for DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis, and altered metabolism has been linked to male subfertility. EPA and DHA supplements can significantly increase sperm count and quality.
DHA
DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid, appears to improve sperm quality and count in a few human studies. Although there are no long-term studies of dietary DHA in humans, animal studies suggest that DHA can improve fertility and sperm motility. Taking omega-3 supplements may also improve sperm motility. Omega-3 fatty acids are fast metabolized by sperm, so they may be beneficial for improving sperm quality.