Fertility is often thought of as a female issue, however, reproductive health is important in both men and women. According to a study published by the Institute of Nutrition, fertility in men can be reduced by defects in spermatozoa due to a lack of protective nutrients in the body. Vitamins have antioxidant and healthy development effects on the reproductive organs and cells of men. Men should begin taking vitamins for fertility health up to five months before the couple wishes to conceive. The right vitamins and other nutrients will help the body function to its best reproductive potential.
Vitamin B12
Fertility expert Dr. Marilyn Glenville, Ph.D, recommends vitamin B12 to improve fertility in men as it increases sperm counts. It will also increase energy and stamina levels. Vitamin B12 is an important nutrient in the healthy production of red blood cells and is required for the delivery of oxygen throughout the body for the production of energy.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is important for men because it helps to balance testosterone hormone levels and improve the maturation and growth of sperm cells. Vitamin B6 is also needed for energy production, red blood cell production and healthy metabolic rates in the body.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect the DNA inside the sperm from damage. Chromosomal (DNA) problems in the sperm can prevent fertilization or a healthy pregnancy from occurring and increase the risk of a miscarriage. Research conducted by the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences and published by the Institute of Nutrition, revealed that a vitamin C deficiency may be a factor in male infertility because this vitamin is needed for healthy movement and quality of the sperm and prevents sperm from clumping or sticking together. Men should take 500mg of vitamin C a day, for up to five months before attempting to conceive with their partner.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is also a potent antioxidant that protects the DNA inside the sperm, as well as the development, growth and number of sperm, improving the fertilization potential of men. Dr. Glenville recommends this vitamin for men who are undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments with their partners because it has been found to increase fertilization rates in men by more than 10 percent. A dose of 15 milligrams of vitamin E per day is recommended for men.
