Question:

My wife and I are trying to have a baby, what supplements help male fertility?

1) What is the recommended daily dosage of Vitamin D for male & female?
2) Should men be taking any supplements while he and partner are trying to get pregnant?

Thank you!

Answer:

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One of the main causes of male infertility is sperm DNA damage. Studies show that sperm DNA damage can be efficiently treated with oral antioxidants such as vitamin E and C. (See below in Andrology Journal for Reference) If a man's sperm has been tested and shown to have poor quality sperm he should consider supplements such as A, C, E, Selenium, Zinc, Folic acid L-Carnitine and CO Q10 (in doses that are higher than what you find in a multi-vitamin mineral). If there are no problems with the man's sperm counts/motility/DNA then simply a high quality multi-vitamin mineral should be considered. More important than any supplement, is that both partners should consider eating very healthy and exercising for a minimum of 3 months prior to conception. They should also aim to achieve a healthy Body Mass Index (under 25) to improve chances of conception.

The recommended daily vitamin D dose for the average man and woman is 1,000iu but it's best to have your serum (blood) 25-OH-Vitamin D levels checked in order to know what dose is best for you.

Remember to seek advice from a primary healthcare provider (medical doctor or naturopathic doctor) before taking advice over this medium.

http://www.andrologyjournal.org/cgi/content/full/26/3/349" target="_blank">Anitoxidants C and E improve sperm quality
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19509475" target="_blank">CoQ10 improves sperm quality
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16169400" target="_blank">L-Carinitine improves sperm quality

Response by Tanya Wylde BSc, ND

Disclaimer:

Before starting any new health program or before you begin taking any medication, natural medicine, or supplement, always check with your primary health care provider.

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