Male infertility: nutritional and environmental considerations.

TLDR

Male sperm counts are declining, with pesticides, estrogens, and heavy metals harming spermatogenesis, but nutritional therapies, antioxidants, acupuncture, and botanical medicines have been shown to improve sperm parameters. The study aims to improve male fertility by identifying harmful environmental and occupational risk factors and correcting nutritional imbalances. The authors propose a multi‑faceted therapeutic approach that addresses environmental exposures and nutritional deficiencies to enhance sperm production and function.

Abstract

Studies confirm that male sperm counts are declining, and environmental factors, such as pesticides, exogenous estrogens, and heavy metals may negatively impact spermatogenesis. A number of nutritional therapies have been shown to improve sperm counts and sperm motility, including carnitine, arginine, zinc, selenium, and vitamin B-12. Numerous antioxidants have also proven beneficial in treating male infertility, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, glutathione, and coenzyme Q10. Acupuncture, as well as specific botanical medicines, have been documented in several studies as having a positive effect on sperm parameters. A multi-faceted therapeutic approach to improving male fertility involves identifying harmful environmental and occupational risk factors, while correcting underlying nutritional imbalances to encourage optimal sperm production and function.