Bades to improve spermatogenesis in men: detailed review
Spermatogenesis, a complex process of sperm formation in the seeds of testicles, is the cornerstone of male fertility. Violations in this process can lead to a decrease in sperm quality, a decrease in the number of spermatozoa (oligospermia), abnormal morphology (teratozoospermia) or a decrease in mobility (asthenozoosperia), which, in turn, reduces the likelihood of conception.
Many factors can negatively affect spermatogenesis, including age, genetic disorders, hormonal imbalances, infections, injuries, the effects of toxins (alcohol, smoking, drugs, pesticides, industrial chemicals), overheating of the testicles, varicocele (expansion of the veins of the seed rope), some drugs, as well as nutrient deficiency. In this regard, the development and use of biologically active additives (dietary supplements) to improve spermatogenesis attracts more and more attention to both doctors and men seeking to increase their reproductive capabilities.
It is important to emphasize that dietary supplements are not a replacement for the full treatment prescribed by a doctor, and their use should be carried out only after consulting with a specialist and conducting the necessary studies. Bades can be useful as additional therapy aimed at supporting the normal function of the testicles and improving the quality of sperm.
In this review, we will examine in detail the various dietary supplements that can potentially improve spermatogenesis, describe their mechanisms of action, dosage, possible side effects and contraindications, and also provide a review of scientific research confirming or refuting their effectiveness.
1. Antioxidants:
Oxidative stress caused by excessive formation of free radicals plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of male infertility. Free radicals can damage spermatozoa DNA, violate their mobility and morphology, and worsen the process of fertilization. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals and protect sperm from damage.
- Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): A powerful water -soluble antioxidant that protects sperm from oxidative damage. Vitamin C also improves sperm mobility and reduces the number of sperm with damaged DNA.
- The mechanism of action: neutralizes free radicals, protecting lipids and DNA of sperm.
- Dosage: 500-1000 mg per day.
- Side effects: rarely, digestive disorders at high doses are possible.
- Studies: A number of studies shows that vitamin C can improve sperm quality in men with infertility associated with oxidative stress.
- Vitamin E (Tokoferol): A fat -soluble antioxidant that protects the cell membranes of sperm from damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin E also improves sperm mobility and increases their ability to fertilize.
- The mechanism of action: protects lipids of cell membranes from oxidation.
- Dosage: 200-400 IU per day.
- Side effects: rarely, digestive disorders at high doses are possible.
- Studies: Studies show that vitamin E can improve sperm mobility and increase the frequency of pregnancy in steam with male infertility factor.
- Selenium: A microelement necessary for the synthesis of glutathioneperoxidase, an important antioxidant enzyme. Selenium protects sperm from oxidative damage, improves their mobility and morphology, and increases sperm concentration.
- The mechanism of action: is a cofactor of glutathioneperoxidase, an enzyme that protects the cell from oxidative stress.
- Dosage: 55-200 mcg per day.
- Side effects: rarely, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea at high doses are possible. With prolonged use of high doses, selenotoxicity is possible.
- Studies: Studies show that the addition of selenium can improve sperm quality in men with low selenium levels.
- Coenzim Q10 (COQ10): An important compound participating in the production of energy in cells. COQ10 also has antioxidant properties and protects sperm from oxidative damage. COQ10 improves sperm mobility, increases their concentration and improves morphology.
- The mechanism of action: participates in the electronic transport circuit of the mitochondria and acts as an antioxidant.
- Dosage: 100-300 mg per day.
- Side effects: rarely, digestive disorders are possible.
- Studies: Studies show that COQ10 can improve sperm parameters in men with infertility.
- Glutathione: A powerful antioxidant that protects the cells from damage caused by free radicals. Glutation plays an important role in the process of detoxification and helps maintain sperm health.
- The mechanism of action: participates in antioxidant protection of cells and detoxification.
- Dosage: 250-500 mg per day. (Often, its predecessor is used – n -acetylcistein (NAC)).
- Side effects: rarely, digestive disorders are possible.
- Studies: Preliminary studies show that glutathione can improve sperm quality.
- Liquopin: Carotinoid with powerful antioxidant properties. Likopin protects sperm DNA from damage caused by free radicals, and improves sperm mobility.
- The mechanism of action: antioxidant protection of sperm DNA.
- Dosage: 4-10 mg per day.
- Side effects: rarely, digestive disorders are possible.
- Studies: Studies show that lycopine can improve sperm parameters, especially mobility.
2. Amino acids:
Amino acids play an important role in spermatogenesis and are building blocks for proteins necessary for the formation of sperm.
- L-Carnitin: The amino acid necessary for the transportation of fatty acids to mitochondria, where they are used for energy production. L-carnitine improves sperm mobility, increases their concentration and protects them from oxidative damage.
- The mechanism of action: participates in the transport of fatty acids in mitochondria for energy production.
- Dosage: 1-3 g per day.
- Side effects: rarely, digestive disorders are possible.
- Studies: Numerous studies show that L-carnitine significantly improves sperm mobility and sperm concentration.
- L-arginine: The amino acid, which is the predecessor of nitrogen oxide (No), which plays an important role in the regulation of blood flow in the testicles and promotes normal spermatogenesis. L-Arginine improves sperm mobility and increases their concentration.
- The mechanism of action: the predecessor of nitrogen oxide (No), which is important for blood flow and vascular function.
- Dosage: 2-6 g per day.
- Side effects: digestive disorders, nausea are possible. Reception should be avoided with herpes.
- Studies: Some studies show that L-arginine can improve sperm parameters, but additional studies are needed.
- L-Citrullin: Another predecessor of nitrogen oxide, which can be more effective than L-Arginine, since it is better absorbed by the body.
- The mechanism of action: is converted to L-Arginine, which, in turn, is the predecessor of nitrogen oxide (No).
- Dosage: 3-6 g per day.
- Side effects: rarely, digestive disorders are possible.
- Studies: Studies show that L-Citrullin can improve the erectile function and, possibly, indirectly influence spermatogenesis.
- N-Acetylcistein (NAC): The predecessor of Glutation, a powerful antioxidant. NAC protects sperm from oxidative damage and improves their mobility.
- The mechanism of action: the predecessor of Glutation, participates in antioxidant protection.
- Dosage: 600-1200 mg per day.
- Side effects: rarely, digestive disorders are possible.
- Studies: Studies show that NAC can improve sperm quality in men with infertility.
3. Minerals:
Minerals play an important role in the regulation of spermatogenesis and maintaining sperm health.
- Zinc: A microelement necessary for the normal function of the testicles and the production of testosterone. Zinc improves sperm mobility, increases their concentration and protects them from oxidative damage. Zinc deficiency can lead to a decrease in libido and impotence.
- The mechanism of action: is necessary for the functioning of enzymes involved in spermatogenesis and synthesis of testosterone.
- Dosage: 15-30 mg per day.
- Side effects: with high doses, digestive disorders, nausea, vomiting are possible. Long -term intake of high doses can lead to copper deficiency.
- Studies: Studies show that the addition of zinc can improve sperm parameters in men with zinc deficiency.
- Folic acid (vitamin B9): An important vitamin necessary for the synthesis of DNA and RNA. Folic acid improves sperm quality and reduces the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in spermatozoa.
- The mechanism of action: necessary for the synthesis of DNA and RNA, is involved in cell division.
- Dosage: 400-800 μg per day.
- Side effects: rarely, digestive disorders are possible.
- Studies: Studies show that folic acid, combined with zinc, can improve sperm quality.
- Selenium: (Already described in the “Antioxidants” section)
- Magnesium: Participates in more than 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, including processes associated with reproductive function. Magnesium disadvantage can negatively affect testosterone levels and sperm quality.
- The mechanism of action: participates in the energy metabolism, protein synthesis and the functioning of the nervous system.
- Dosage: 200-400 mg per day.
- Side effects: Disorders of digestion, diarrhea are possible (especially when taking the magnesium of citrate).
- Studies: Some studies show the relationship between magnesium and sperm quality, but additional research is needed.
4. Plant extracts:
Some plant extracts have properties that can improve spermatogenesis.
- Tribulus Terrestris (Tribulus Teretstris): A plant traditionally used to increase libido and improve sexual function. It is believed that Tertrix tribulus can increase testosterone levels, although scientific data are contradictory.
- The mechanism of action: It is assumed that it stimulates the production of luteinizing hormone (LH), which, in turn, stimulates the production of testosterone.
- Dosage: 750-1500 mg per day.
- Side effects: rarely, digestive disorders are possible.
- Studies: Studies show conflicting results regarding the influence of tribulus terrestris on testosterone levels and sperm quality.
- PANAX GINSENG (ginseng): An adaptogenic plant that can improve the general state of health and increase energy. Ginseng can also improve sperm mobility and increase their concentration.
- The mechanism of action: has antioxidant and anti -inflammatory properties, can affect the level of hormones.
- Dosage: 200-400 mg per day.
- Side effects: insomnia, headache, digestive disorders are possible.
- Studies: Some studies show that ginseng can improve sperm parameters, but additional studies are needed.
- Ashwagandha (Ashwaganda): An adaptogenic plant that helps the body cope with stress. Ashvagand can improve sperm quality, increase testosterone levels and improve libido.
- The mechanism of action: reduces the level of cortisol (stress hormone), can affect the level of hormones.
- Dosage: 300-500 mg per day.
- Side effects: rarely, digestive disorders are possible.
- Studies: Studies show that Ashvaganda can improve sperm quality and increase testosterone levels.
- Maca (Maka Peruvskaya): A plant traditionally used to increase libido and improve fertility. Poppy can improve sperm mobility and increase their concentration.
- The mechanism of action: the mechanism of action is not fully studied, presumably affects the hormonal balance.
- Dosage: 1500-3000 mg per day.
- Side effects: rarely, digestive disorders are possible.
- Studies: Some studies show that poppy can improve sperm parameters, but additional studies are needed.
- Saw Palmetto (So Palmetto): Serenoa Repens palm fruit extract, traditionally used to treat benign prostate hyperplasia (DHCH). Although there is no direct influence on spermatogenesis, Saw Palmetto can indirectly improve the reproductive function, supporting the health of the prostate gland.
- The mechanism of action: inhibits the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which turns testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DGT).
- Dosage: 160-320 mg per day.
- Side effects: rarely, digestive disorders are possible.
- Studies: Studies are mainly focused on the treatment of DGPG.
5. Other dietary supplements:
- Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA): Ezmable fatty acids that play an important role in the health of cell membranes and regulation of inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids improve sperm mobility and increase their concentration.
- The mechanism of action: participate in the formation of cell membranes and have anti -inflammatory properties.
- Dosage: 1000-2000 mg per day (total EPA and DHA).
- Side effects: digestive disorders, fish flavor are possible.
- Studies: Studies show that omega-3 fatty acids can improve sperm quality.
- Vitamin D: An important vitamin that plays a role in the regulation of the level of calcium and phosphorus in the body. Vitamin D can also affect the level of testosterone and sperm quality.
- The mechanism of action: participates in the regulation of the level of calcium and phosphorus, can affect the level of hormones.
- Dosage: 2000-5000 IU per day (depending on the level of vitamin D in the blood).
- Side effects: with high doses, hypercalcemia is possible.
- Studies: Studies show that vitamin D deficiency can be associated with a deterioration in sperm quality.
- Melatonin: A hormone regulating the cycle of sleep and wakefulness. Melatonin also has antioxidant properties and can protect sperm from oxidative damage.
- The mechanism of action: regulates the cycle of sleep and wakefulness, has antioxidant properties.
- Dosage: 3-5 mg before bedtime.
- Side effects: drowsiness, headache are possible.
- Studies: Preliminary studies show that melatonin can improve sperm quality.
Important comments and warnings:
- Consultation with a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplement to improve spermatogenesis, it is necessary to consult a urologist or andrologist. The doctor will conduct the necessary examinations (spermogram, hormonal analysis and others) to determine the cause of spermatogenesis disorders and select the optimal treatment regimen.
- Individual tolerance: The effectiveness and tolerance of dietary supplements can vary in different people. It is important to carefully monitor your well-being and, if any side effects appear, stop taking dietary supplements and see a doctor.
- Quality of dietary supplements: When choosing dietary supplements, it is necessary to give preference to trusted manufacturers with a good reputation, which guarantee the quality and safety of their products. It is important to pay attention to the availability of quality and conformity certificates.
- Are not a cure: Bades are not drugs and cannot replace the full treatment prescribed by the doctor. They can only be used as additional therapy.
- Complex approach: Improving spermatogenesis requires an integrated approach that includes a healthy lifestyle (proper nutrition, sufficient sleep, rejection of bad habits), regular physical exercises, avoiding overheating of testicles and stressful situations.
- Interaction with drugs: Some dietary supplements can interact with medicines, so it is important to inform the doctor about all the drugs taken, including dietary supplements.
- Duration of admission: Spermatogenesis is a process that takes about 74 days. Therefore, in order to assess the effectiveness of dietary supplements, it is necessary to take them for at least 3 months and repeat the spermogram.
- Allergic reactions: Before taking dietary supplements, it is necessary to make sure that there are no allergies to the components that are part of them.
- Overdose: Do not exceed the recommended doses of dietary supplements. An overdose can lead to undesirable side effects.
- Pregnancy: Some dietary supplements may be contraindicated for taking pregnant women.
- Breastfeeding: Some dietary supplements can penetrate into breast milk and have a negative effect on the health of the child.
- Diseases: In the presence of any diseases (for example, cardiovascular, renal, liver, endocrine), it is necessary to consult a doctor before taking a dietary supplement.
Conclusion (in the context of “without conclusion”):
The presented information on dietary supplement to improve spermatogenesis is reference and should not be used for self -medication. Only a qualified doctor can assess the state of health of a man, identify the causes of a violation of spermatogenesis and choose the optimal treatment regimen, taking into account the individual characteristics of the body and possible contraindications. An integrated approach, including a healthy lifestyle, proper nutrition and dietary supplement, can help improve sperm quality and increase the chances of conception. However, it is important to remember that dietary supplements are not panacea and their effectiveness can vary in different people.