Male Fertility Issues: Most Effective Dietary Supplements

Male infertility, defined as the inability to conceive after one year of unprotected intercourse, represents a significant portion of infertility cases worldwide. It affects around 9% of men aged 15 to 44 and is often linked to a decrease in sperm quality, concentration, or mobility. Causes vary: infections, genetic anomalies, hormonal imbalances, or poor lifestyle. Oxidative stress, resulting from the overproduction of free radicals, is particularly involved as it can damage sperm DNA and impair their function.

Causes of Male Infertility

Male infertility often results from a combination of biological, environmental, and behavioral factors that compromise sperm production and quality. Among the main sources of toxicity identified, the use of certain medications is a crucial factor. For instance, prolonged treatments with antidepressants, analgesics, or steroids can disrupt testicular function. Sulfasalazine, a drug used for ulcerative colitis, is known to reduce sperm count. Exposure to toxic environmental substances also increases risks. Solvents, herbicides, dyes, heavy metals like lead or mercury, and radiation are major hormonal disruptors. Professionals working in contact with these products are particularly vulnerable, and even past exposures can have lasting effects. These agents not only alter spermatogenesis but also promote oxidative stress. Lifestyle is a determining factor. The use of recreational drugs such as marijuana and opioids (heroin) is associated with a significant decrease in sperm quality. Additionally, past infections, including mumps and sexually transmitted diseases like chlamydia and gonorrhea, can lead to obstructions or anomalies in the genital pathways.

Treatments

To address this problem, natural treatments using medicinal plants offer promising results. Ashwagandha, for example, improves sperm parameters by increasing sperm count, motility, and morphology. Its antioxidant effect also protects cells from oxidative damage. Other plants such as Tribulus terrestris stimulate testosterone production, essential for spermatogenesis. Trace elements also play a key role. Zinc is crucial for hormonal synthesis and sperm quality, while selenium acts as an antioxidant, reducing damage caused by oxidative stress. A diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E, combined with natural antioxidants like lycopene (found in tomatoes), promotes improvement in sperm parameters. Although these natural approaches are promising, they should be integrated into a comprehensive strategy including lifestyle modifications such as regular physical activity and stress reduction. These solutions, combined with appropriate medical care, offer hope for men facing infertility.