"Taking a supplement can help change sperm health in, which is the amount of time required for sperm to develop." What causes low sperm count "I would highly recommend for men who have abnormal semen parameters to start taking L-carnitine, vitamin E, and Omega 3 DHA/fish oil as these supplements have been shown to have great antioxidant activity," says Alvarez. A 2020 study by the NIH found no benefit in semen quality or birth rates in men taking zinc and folic acid supplementation. It's important to note that the effects of folic acid and zinc on male fertility are still debatable. The Mayo Clinic recommends adults take no more than 400 micrograms per day. Folic acidįolic acid is a variant of folate - a water-soluble B vitamin that may help reduce sperm abnormalities according to Alvarez. The NIH recommends no more than 40 mg of zinc per day, as too much can lead to harmful side effects like vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, and an impaired immune system. Alvarez says he recommends a male prenatal multivitamin with zinc due to its ability to boost testosterone production, sperm count, and sperm function. Zinc is involved in a series of processes that give sperm the physical capabilities to fuse with and penetrate an egg.Ī 2016 review reported that low zinc levels were associated with male infertility. Alvarez recommends 15 mcg of vitamin D per day. Vitamin D is another fat-soluble vitamin helpful in reducing inflammation, maintaining calcium and phosphate levels, and regulating cell growth.Ī 2017 study found that adding more Vitamin D helped control calcium levels, which is essential for sperm motility. However, some studies on carnitine supplementation have found that taking 2 grams a day for 2 months increased sperm motility. The NIH reports that sufficient amounts of carnitine are made by the human body, so there are no dietary recommendations regarding the supplement. L-carnitineĪ 2012 review suggests L-carnitine may help to increase sperm quality and sperm movement. Alvarez recommends 1000-2000 mg of vitamin C per day. Vitamin C itself is an antioxidant that may help improve sperm quality.Īccording to a 2020 review, clinical evidence of vitamins that increase male fertility most includes vitamin C, as well as L-carnitine, vitamin E, and zinc. Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin involved in protein metabolism, among other bodily processes. The Mayo Clinic recommends 15 mg/day, with intake not exceeding 180 mg, as this may increase the risk for prostate cancer. A 2011 study suggests vitamin E along with selenium is useful in increasing a sperm's motility - or ability to swim to an egg - in infertile men. Here's what researchers know so far about these supplements and their affect on male fertility. Fertility supplements cannot undo the toll that an unhealthy lifestyle takes on fertility.Īlvarez recommends a daily multivitamin that includes zinc, folic acid, vitamin C, and vitamin D along with a few other supplements. Important: When trying to get pregnant, it's paramount that you eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. However, male prenatal vitamins - also known as male fertility supplements - may help improve sperm count, says Juan Alvarez, MD, a reproductive endocrinologist at Fertility Centers of Illinois. Visit Insider's Health Reference library for more advice.Īn estimated 10% to 20% of infertility cases in men stem from issues related to their sperm. Men can take supplements like vitamins C, D, and E to boost fertility.Įxperts recommend taking fertility supplements for at least 3 months.įertility supplements won't undo infertility issues from an unhealthy lifestyle. Smoking, drug abuse, and heavy alcohol use can lead to a low sperm count and reduce your chances of fathering a child.
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