Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to decreased sperm counts and reduced sperm motility. Even in cases with no Vitamin B12 deficiency, supplementation may be beneficial for men with sperm counts lower than 20 million/ml or motility rates below fifty percent.
In a study, 27% of men with sperm counts below 20 million/ml were given 1,000 mcg of vitamin B12 daily, resulting in total sperm count increases exceeding 100 million/ml. Another study showed improvements in 57% of men with low sperm counts when given 6,000 mcg of vitamin B12 per day.
Arginine
This amino acid is crucial for sperm formation and is primarily found in the heads of sperm.
The effectiveness of arginine supplementation in treating male infertility appears to be related to the level of sperm count. For counts below 20 million/ml, arginine supplementation is less likely to be beneficial. For arginine to be effective, a minimum dosage of 4 grams per day over three months is recommended.
One study showed that 74% of 178 men with low sperm counts experienced significant improvements in sperm counts and motility after taking 4 grams/day of arginine. Arginine supplementation should be considered after trying other nutritional measures.
Suggested Daily Dosages:
Most Important:
- Vitamin B complex, 100 mg twice daily.
- Vitamin B6, 50 mg twice daily for six months or more.
- Vitamin E with mixed tocopherols. Start with 200 IU daily and increase gradually to 400-1,000 IU daily.
- Vitamin C with bioflavonoids, 1,000-3,000 mg three times daily for at least three months.
- Zinc, 80 mg, with 3 mg of copper daily for six months, then reduce zinc to 30 mg. Do not exceed a total of 100 mg daily from all supplements.
- L-arginine, 4,000 mg.
- Coenzyme Q10, 200 mg.
- Chromium, 100 mcg.
- Selenium, 200-400 mcg daily.
Helpful:
- Lactobacillus acidophilus, 1-3 capsules or 1 tsp.
- Flaxseed oil, 1 tablespoon daily.
- Carnitine, 300 milligrams three times daily.
Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations:
- Consume a diet that emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods, including whole grains, legumes, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds.
- Eat 1/4 cup of raw sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds daily.
- Eliminate alcohol, caffeine, and sugar from your diet.
- Identify and manage food allergies.
- Engage in regular exercise (avoid excessive exercise).
- Include relaxation exercises like deep breathing, meditation, prayer, visualization, etc., for 10 to 15 minutes each day.
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking at least 48 ounces of water daily.