Fertility for Men

Most causes of male infertility reflect an abnormal sperm count or quality. Although it only takes one sperm to fertilise an egg, in an average ejaculate a man will eject nearly 200 million sperm. Low sperm count is a key cause of infertility in men. Unfortunately, in many cases the cause for the decreased sperm formation cannot be identified and the condition is labelled ‘idiopathic oligospermia or azoospermia’. Oligospermia means a low sperm count while azoospermia is defined as a complete absence of living sperm in the semen. Asthenospermia is the term used to describe reduced sperm motility which also causes issues regarding fertility. Possible causes of male infertility include environmental toxin exposure (e.g. smoking, xenoestrogens), nutritional deficiency, ductal obstruction, ejaculatory dysfunctions, and infections (Chlamydia being the most common serious infection) or disorders of accessory glands. This high potency formulation is specifically designed to maximise the vital nutrients required to support male reproductive function and help optimise fertility. Ideally take at least 90 days ahead of planned conception:

VITAMIN E 

Vitamin E is a well-documented antioxidant and has been shown to inhibit free radical-induced damage to sensitive cell membranes. In a randomized control trial, supplementation with vitamin E (600mg) for three months was compared to placebo. The results demonstrated an improvement in the function of spermatozoa, therefore enhancing the ability of the sperm to penetrate the egg. As an antioxidant, Vitamin E can reduce lipid peroxidation in seminal plasma and spermatozoa which has been linked with infertility. One study supplemented men who experienced infertility, the results showed an improvement in the levels of lipid peroxidation, sperm motility and led to improved conception rates compared to placebo.

L-CARNITINE 

The main function of carnitine in the epididymis is to provide an energetic substrate for spermatozoa. Carnitine contributes directly to sperm motility and may be involved in the successful maturation of sperm. This is especially important since epididymal sperm use fats as their main source of energy metabolism, therefore carnitine is necessary for transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria. A systematic review investigated the effects of L-carnitine supplementation on male infertility. The outcome showed a significant improvement in sperm motility and therefore pregnancy rates compared to placebo.

L-ARGININE 

the amino acid arginine is required for the replication of cells, making it essential in sperm formation. It also acts as a biochemical precursor in the synthesis of putrescine, spermidine, and spermine, which are thought to be essential to sperm motility. A study examined the effects of combining l-arginine, l-carnitine and ginseng in men with a

ZINC 

Zinc is perhaps the most critical trace mineral for male sexual function. It is involved in virtually every aspect of male reproduction including hormone metabolism, sperm formation, and sperm motility. Among many other problems, zinc deficiency is characterised by decreased testosterone levels and sperm count. Zinc levels are typically much lower in infertile men with low sperm counts, indicating that a low zinc status may be a contributing factor to infertility.

A systematic review and meta-analysis compared the outcome of folate supplementation alone or in conjunction with zinc in sub-fertile men. The results showed that those supplemented with folate and zinc together had significantly increased sperm concentration and improved morphology, sperm motility as well as greater sexual satisfaction. L-Arginine may also play a role in improving the function of spermatozoa via increasing the biosynthesis of nitric oxide; which in turn reduces lipid peroxidation by inactivating superoxides. asthenospermia.

PINE BARK EXTRACT

pine bark is a rich source of proanthocyanidins (OPCs), known to be potent antioxidants with many benefits associated with circulatory health – such as helping venous insufficiency by increasing nitric oxide production, therefore improving endothelium-dependent vasodilation. Improvements in blood flow and peripheral circulation can assist male reproductive function.

CO-ENZYME Q10 – In sperm cells, coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is concentrated in the mitochondrial, where it is involved in energy production. It also functions as an antioxidant, preventing lipid peroxidation of sperm membranes. Supplementation with Co-enzyme Q10 in men experiencing infertility demonstrated a significant improvement in semen parameters; in particular, sperm count, motility and morphology. Additionally, a meta-analysis showed that Co-enzyme Q10 supplementation led to significant improvements in sperm concentration and motility.

SELENIUM – is a key mineral required for normal sperm production (spermatogenesis) and also plays an essential role in the generation of p

FOLIC ACID – Folic acid is essential for DNA production and repair and therefore plays an important role in healthy sperm formation. Deficiency in folic acid in men has been linked to sperm abnormalities and suggested to contribute to miscarriages14. A randomised control trial combining zinc and folic acid concluded that supplementation with these nutrients significantly improved total sperm count in both fertile and sub-fertile men15.

VITAMIN D – Deficiency of this nutrient has been linked to several reproductive disorders including miscarriage and pre-term births. An association has been made between serum Vitamin D levels and sperm motility in sub-fertile men. Additionally, a pilot study demonstrated a link between male vitamin D serum levels and the ability of semen to initiate a pregnancy .

INGREDIENTS:

• Two capsules provide:

  Vitamins E (d-alpha tocopheryl acetate) 100iu L-Carnitine-l-tartrate 100mg Zinc (picolinate) 25mg L-Arginine hydrochloride 100mg Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) 50mg Natural mixed carotenoids 5mg Pine bark extract (pinus pinaster bark) 50mg Co-enzyme Q10 30mg Selenium (methionine) 100ug

Dosage

Two capsules daily taken with food, or as recommended by a practitioner.

Potential applications: To provide nutritional support for pre-conceptual health and well-being. This formula may also be beneficial to men with reduced reproductive function.

Known contraindications: None known.
Interactions: Zinc supplements, particularly on an empty stomach can cause a feeling of slight nausea. Useful links: Organic Maca and Organic Scandinavian Rainbow Trout Oil.

Note: it is recommended to eliminate saturated and hydrogenated fatty acids from the diet and increase the intake of high quality polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly omega 3 fatty acids, as these oils function in all aspects of sexual function including sperm formation and activity.
Scrotal temperature is highly regulated by the body, and sperm production is greatly reduced at temperatures above 96o F. Men attempting to improve their fertility should not wear tight fitting pants or underwear (boxer shorts instead of briefs), and should avoid strenuous exercise, hot tubs, and baths.