Infertility is often one of the most trying challenges young couples face. Infertility can be associated with a long list of causes, and several different treatments are currently used to help couples become pregnant. Those facing infertility need to know there are several nutritional treatments that are safe and helpful to increase the male aspects of fertility.

Fertilization relies on many factors, including the quality and health of the sperm, which need to be present in significant numbers, have adequate motility and be free of significant defects. Unfortunately, the quality and quantity of men’s sperm has been in decline for the last several decades [Source: The Lancet]. Several reasons may account for this, including poor nutrition, chemical and toxicity exposure, and perhaps lack of sleep and greater stress. While not all men need supplements, the following list can be used as a starting point for those trying to improve fertility.

  • Vitamin C: Taken in doses of 1,000 mg daily, vitamin C is utilized in most of the major hormone-producing glands and helps to produce healthier sperm [Source: Luck, Dawson].
  • Vitamin B-12 and folic acid: These are needed for healthy sperm DNA. They can be found in a good B complex. If a man’s B-12 is low, he may need higher doses (1,000 mcg daily), or even injections to normalize levels and improve chances of conception.
  • Zinc: Zinc is important for the health of the sperm and should be taken at 15 mg daily [Source: Abbasi]. Higher doses of 25-30 mg daily may be better for those with a history of low sperm counts, but that dose should also be taken with 2 mg of copper to keep that ratio normal in the body.
  • Selenium: Lower levels of selenium have been linked to lower sperm counts. Take 200 mcg daily.
  • L-arginine: 500 mg daily showed improved sperm counts [Source: Tanimura]. Arginine is an amino acid (a building block of protein).
  • Carnitine and acetyl L-carnitine: These forms of carnitine have been shown to improve sperm motility, and the combination can improve sperm count as well. The dosage in one study was 2 g of carnitine and 1 g of acetyl L-carnitine daily [Source: Lenzi]. 
  • CoQ10: CoQ10 is good for many things, and it may also help improve motility and chances of fertility taken at 60-100 mg daily [Source: Lewin].

Other factors can contribute to male infertility. Anatomical setbacks should be discussed with a physician. Stress will also influence sperm counts [Source: Laino]. Environmental pollution, such as lead, can also affect sperm counts [Source: Gennart]. This may be one of the main reasons behind the continuing decrease in sperm counts and testosterone levels. With the ever-growing concern of pollution spreading in our lands and waterways, we must take precautions of the usage and disposal of any chemicals, including those used around the house. This is especially true for young children, as chemical exposure could have a dramatic impact on the health of developing boys that could be irreversible. An honest assessment of daily stressors needs to be done to make sure that it is not part of the problem. Combat the negative impact of stress with regular exercise.

Infertility is a common problem for many couples. It can be stressful, and may often require expensive treatments. If we continue to see decreasing sperm counts, the problem will become an even bigger challenge. Consider nutritional options to help support healthy sperm counts and increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.