Supplements for Male Fertility

Selenium is another essential mineral with protective antioxidant properties. Supplementing with selenium can improve sperm motility, morphology, and may even increase the chances of successful conception (7, 8). Plus, selenium is required to produce enough active thyroid hormones. Thyroid health is crucial for both male and female fertility. In fact, hypothyroidism is commonly associated with impaired sperm morphology. Seafood and brazil nuts are two of the richest food sources of selenium.  

CoQ10 is a molecule found in every cell in the body and is critical for energy production inside the mitochondria i.e. the “power plants” of the cell. It is also an antioxidant that can protect mitochondria from damage and oxidative stress. Each single sperm cell has an estimated 50-75 mitochondria, and most men release millions of sperm cells in each ejaculation! However, it only takes one sperm cell to achieve pregnancy. Therefore, even if a man has low sperm count, it is still possible to achieve pregnancy and even more important to optimize sperm quality by enhancing mitochondrial function.

CoQ10 supplements are well-studied and regularly found to increase sperm count, sperm motility, and morphology (6, 9). Start with 100 mg of CoQ10 per day and take with a meal to enhance absorption.

Related Post: CoQ10 and Fertility

Omega-3 is a type of healthy fat that can reduce markers of inflammation and oxidative stress while increasing antioxidant levels. Omega-3 fats have also been shown to increase sperm count, motility, and morphology while decreasing the number of sperm with DNA damage (6). Fish is the best source of two important omega-3 fats: EPA and DHA. An omega-3 supplement should contain EPA and DHA for the best outcomes for male fertility. We often recommend taking around 1,000 mg of total fish oil (EPA + DHA) per day. 

You should also strive to include oily fish into your diet about twice per week. The best seafood sources of EPA and DHA with the lowest amounts of mercury include salmon, mackerel, anchovies, sardines, and herring. 

Sperm is highly susceptible to damage from oxidative stress. However, targeted supplementation can improve male fertility by reducing sperm damage and improving semen parameters. 

Our male fertility bundle includes all of the recommended nutrients for sperm quality. Cell Recharge is a multivitamin designed to provide key nutrients while optimizing mitochondrial health inside each sperm cell. CoQ10 is crucial for sperm quality and reducing or preventing sperm damage.

Keep in mind, you cannot counteract an unhealthy diet and lifestyle with supplements. For both male and female fertility, it is crucial to build a strong foundation of health by limiting alcohol, managing stress, eliminating tobacco use, and eating a fertility-friendly diet.