Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that plays a crucial role in preventing damage from free radicals to the unsaturated fatty acids in the sperm membrane. Low levels of this nutrient have been associated with reduced fertility in men. Vitamin E has also been shown to enhance sperm's ability to fertilize eggs in test tubes.
In a study, vitamin E supplementation reduced lipid peroxide concentration in sperm pellet suspensions. Of the treated infertile men, eleven out of fifty-two successfully impregnated their spouses.
Increasing vitamin E levels in men with low fertility improved both the number and quality of sperm, enhancing their mobility and attachment to unfertilized eggs. This resulted in successful pregnancies.
Studies suggest that vitamin E may be as effective, if not more effective, than expensive high-tech procedures. A study by Kessopoulou and colleagues provided solid proof of vitamin E's effectiveness. Sperm potency improved significantly with vitamin E supplementation.
In another study in Saudi Arabia, over one hundred couples with low male fertility were tested. The males in one group took daily vitamin E supplements, while the other group received a placebo. The vitamin E group had a much higher success rate of conception, surpassing in vitro fertilization results.
Dosage: In studies, a daily dose of 600 IU of vitamin E was used. Do not exceed 800 IU per day. Choose a product containing mixed tocopherols. Begin with 200 IU daily and gradually increase to 400 IU twice daily. If you have high blood pressure, limit your intake of supplemental vitamin E to a total of 400 IU daily.
Studies have shown that vitamin E is more effective when taken with another key antioxidant, vitamin C. The reason may be that vitamin C can restore damaged vitamin E molecules, giving them a second life. To minimize stomach upset, take vitamin E with meals or snacks.
Caution: People with anemia, clotting disorders, liver disease, or overactive thyroid should consult a doctor before taking vitamin E supplements. If you're taking an anticoagulant (blood thinner), consult your physician before taking supplemental vitamin E.
Selenium
Research has shown that selenium deficiency reduces reproduction rates in both humans and animals. Selenium is necessary for testosterone production and vital for sperm mobility, preventing immobility due to tail weakening or deformation.
Almost half of the male body's selenium supply is concentrated in the testicles and the seminal ducts near the prostate gland, highlighting its importance in sperm production.
Selenium acts as an antioxidant, works synergistically with vitamin E, and preserves tissue elasticity. In a double-blind trial, men with low fertility who took selenium supplements saw a 100% improvement in sperm mobility.
Dosage: Take 200 micrograms of selenium daily. Do not exceed this dosage, as selenium can be toxic in excessive amounts. Toxicity levels are 100 times the recommended daily value.
Zinc
Zinc is a critical trace mineral for male sexual function, playing a role in hormone metabolism, sperm formation, sperm motility, and testosterone levels. Low zinc levels are associated with decreased testosterone and sperm counts.
Infertile men with low sperm counts typically have much lower zinc levels, making it a possible contributing factor to infertility.
Several studies suggest that zinc supplementation can benefit men with low sperm counts and low testosterone levels. In one study, zinc sulfate supplementation significantly increased sperm count and testosterone levels in infertile men with initially low testosterone levels, leading to successful pregnancies.
Optimal zinc levels are essential for male sexual vitality. The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for zinc is 15 mg. It is found in whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Therapists recommend taking 45 to 60 mg of zinc supplements per day in addition to consuming zinc-containing foods.