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Male Fertility Supplements

The number of couples who have trouble conceiving is much higher than you probably realise. It affects around one in every six couples, and around one in every three cases is due to the male partner alone. (1)

Infertility is not always treatable, but you can do things to improve your chances of conceiving naturally. Sometimes all it takes is a healthy diet, less stress, or the right herbal remedies and supplements.

However, there is a lot of conflicting information online on the effectiveness of male fertility supplements. And frankly most products on the market do not pass the test.

When choosing a male fertility supplement, be sure to do your research, and avoid anything that makes larger-than-life claims without the evidence to back it up.

What is Male Infertility?

Fertility refers to couples’ ability to get pregnant without medical treatment or support. Male infertility is defined as circumstances meaning a man is unlikely to get his partner pregnant without medical intervention. Usually, this happens due to a combination of low sperm quality, volume and motility.

The good news is that for many men this can be improved with male fertility supplements and lifestyle changes.

Here are some examples of typical male fertility issues:

Libido

Libido refers to a person’s desire to have sex. A strong drive can be a sign of good health and normal sperm function. Some male fertility supplements can help to increase your libido.

Erectile dysfunction

When a man is unable to develop or maintain an erection it is referred to as erectile dysfunction. This can be due to low mood and stress, which can be also be targeted with dietary supplements.

Sperm count

One important aspect of sperm quality is the concentration of sperm cells in a given amount of semen. One cause of low sperm count is low testosterone. Male fertility supplements can help to improve sperm count by supporting your body to produce more testosterone.

Sperm motility

Sperm motility refers to their ability to swim effectively.

Sperm morphology

Sperm morphology refers to the shape, size, and appearance of sperm, which, when abnormal, can decrease male fertility.

Testosterone levels

For many men, low levels of the male sex hormone testosterone are responsible for their infertility.

Low testosterone can have many causes, including overall health, genetics, and diet. Some men may need medical intervention to increase testosterone. For others, male fertility supplements can be a massive help.

Oxidative Stress

Studies have shown that poor sperm quality can be due to high levels of oxidative stress in semen. (2) Oxidative stress occurs where molecules called free radicals to damage the sperm. Antioxidants are natural defences against oxidative stress and can lead to improved sperm motility and quantity.

Male Fertility and Sperm

Male Fertility Supplements

Male fertility supplements have created a lot of controversy in recent years. Many of the common ingredients have been debunked. However, that’s not to say that the right supplementation can’t help. Let’s take a look:

Vitamin E, Vitamin C

Vitamin E and C are essential antioxidants that protect the body’s cells from oxidative stress. Vitamin C contributes to sperm health by protecting sperm DNA from free radical damage. (3) Vitamin C is found in many fruits and vegetables, such as citrus fruit, broccoli, and peppers.

Studies have shown that in the USA deficiency rates are high, with 93% deficient in vitamin E and 31% deficient in vitamin C.

Vitamin C and E are included together in male fertility supplements with claims that they work in synergy, and when combined, they can increase sperm count, motility, and morphology. However, recent studies have failed to prove this. In a comprehensive review, it was concluded that while they may protect sperm against DNA damage, there is little evidence that they improve sperm quantity or quality. (4)

Folic Acid and Zinc

Folic acid and zinc are other common combinations in male fertility supplements. Zinc is important for testicular development and sperm maturation. Folate, the natural form of folic acid, depends on zinc to help form DNA in the sperm.

However, studies have shown conflicting results. In one large placebo-controlled trial on 2370 couples, live births did not differ significantly in those who took zinc and folate supplementation (34%) and those who did not (35%). The groups did also not differ in sperm health such as count, shape, and movement. (5)

Selenium

Selenium is a trace mineral and a powerful antioxidant. Antioxidants are thought to improve sperm quality by protecting them from damage from free radicals. One double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial showed that selenium supplementation could improve sperm health, including motility, counts, concentration, and morphology in infertile men. (7)

Whether you are likely to be Selenium deficient could depend on where you live. Selenium deficiency is prevalent in the UK and EU due to soil nutrition degradation, and a 2002 study on Selenium deficiency found that EU and UK wheat had selenium levels 10 to 50 times lower than US and Canadian wheat.

The problem for men in the UK and EU? Selenioum supplements are banned in the EU, it is considered a toxic substance by the food safety authority.

Mucuna Pruriens

One supplement ingredient with the best pedigree in relation to male fertility improvement is also one you see rarely recommended. Mucuna pruriens is a natural bean which grows throughout Asia and is a natural source of L-DOPA.

In studies done over 6 month periods it has demonstrated an ability to improve semen quality; improve sperm motility, and count; support testosterone and improve general sperm parameters associated with fertility.

A stalwart of premium testosterone boosting products, this ingredient has shown an ability to increase levels of neurotransmitters associated with happiness and wellbeing.

A solid natural supplement ingredient for all-round male fertility.

Vitamin D3

You convert sunshine into vitamin D through a chemical reaction. It is an important vitamin that is related to positive mood and healthy testosterone levels. It may be one of the most effective male fertility supplements.

Studies have shown that men with vitamin D deficiency are likely to have low testosterone levels. (8). And supplementation has been shown to increase levels of testosterone and even boost sperm motility. (9), (10), (11).

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is a medicinal herb that has been used in Ayurvedic Medicine since ancient times. Ashwagandha supplements may improve sperm motility, antioxidant status, sperm counts, and testosterone levels. (12)

Ashwagandha can improve male fertility by boosting testosterone levels and in a placebo-controlled study, it was shown to improve sperm health in several ways. It increased semen volume by 53%, sperm counts by 167%, and sperm motility by 57%, compared with levels at the start of the study. While those who revived a placebo saw little improvement. (13)

What Is The Best Male Fertility Supplement?

When it comes to male fertility supplements, you have a range of products to choose from. What works for you could be dependent on what is causing your fertility issues. However, in our search for the top products, there is one that stood out.

Centrapeak is a male vitality supplement that addresses several aspects of male fertility. It includes several antioxidants, including Lutein and Indole-3-Carbinol, as well as testosterone boosting ingredients, including Ashwagandha and D3. In addition it contains Mucuna Pruriens.

There are no proprietary blends, and all the dosages are available for scrutiny on the label.

These ingredients work in synergy to boost testosterone, reduce oxidative stress, and increase libido. Thus addressing many of the root causes of male infertility.

In addition, it works to reduce stress and enhance mood and general well-being. Stress is a huge factor in male fertility and has been shown to reduce the chances of conceiving drastically. (14, 15, 16).

Centrapeak for Male Fertility

Tips For Reproductive Health

Male and female infertility can be affected by many things. When trying to conceive, what works for you will depend on the root cause of your difficulties.

Fertility is often related to overall health and libido. Therefore, anything that improves these things can make a difference. In addition to supplements, here are our additional tips to support fertility.

  • Lose excess weight. Being overweight can lead to infertility. (17) Prioritizing weight-loss could help your sperm function. Supplements could help you have more energy and improve your mood, making it easier to stick to healthy habits and lose weight.
  • Get adequate sleep. Sometimes improving male fertility is as simple as getting enough sleep. (18). You should aim for 7 or 8 hours each night. For advice on how to start sleeping better, click here. One reason for poor sleep could be a lack of magnesium. More than 50% of Americans are thought to be deficient. Centrapeak contains magnesium to aid sleep and testosterone levels.
  • Limit your alcohol intake. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it can reduce testosterone levels and reduce semen quality. (19)
  • Exercise regularly but not too much. Regular exercise can boost testosterone and therefore improve fertility. (21) However, too much exercise can also have the opposite effect and can reduce testosterone levels. If you do exercise a lot, then zinc can work to minimize this risk. (22, 23, 24) Centrapeak contains zinc for its ability to maintain testosterone levels in training athletes.
  • Relax and minimize stress. Not only does stress inhibit your sex drive, but it also impairs your fertility. (25) This is because cortisol has negative effects on testosterone. (26). Stress management could include walking in nature, spending time with friends, meditating, or finding the right supplementation.

Conclusion

Male fertility can be affected by a lot of things. If you are having trouble trying to conceive, you should consult with your doctor so that they can analyse the health of your semen. Some couples may need medical intervention to address the root causes of infertility, and your doctor can discuss treatment options with you.

For many couples, fertility issues can be addressed by supporting their body’s natural functions. Often simple lifestyle changes and natural supplementation can have a big impact.

When searching the market for high-quality male fertility supplements, we found that the options were limited. The truth is that there is no magic pill that is guaranteed to help you conceive.

However, Centrapeak addresses several common fertility issues while supporting you to make the lifestyle changes you need to make. It works to naturally increase levels of testosterone while reducing stress, boosting energy levels and libido. It contains Vitamin D3, Mucuna Pruriens, Zinc and Ashwagandha, which have all shown an ability to help with sperm count, motility and quality.

Remember that reducing stress and having fun are important to your fertility. Centrapeak combines the fertility ingredients with a series of other ingredients such as rhodiola rosea, panax ginseng and phosphatidylserine which can help reduce cortisol and improve your sense of mental wellbeing.

Although there is no guaranteed fix, if nutrient deficiencies or low testosterone levels are contributing factors, the chances are that this product combined with lifestyle improvements could help.

References

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  2. Venkatesh S, Shamsi MB, Deka D, Saxena V, Kumar R, Dada R. Clinical implications of oxidative stress & sperm DNA damage in normozoospermic infertile men. Indian J Med Res. 2011;134(3):396-398.
  3. Ahmadi S, Bashiri R, Ghadiri-Anari A, Nadjarzadeh A. Antioxidant supplements and semen parameters: An evidence-based review. Int J Reprod Biomed. 2016;14(12):729-736.
  4. Ahmadi S, Bashiri R, Ghadiri-Anari A, Nadjarzadeh A. Antioxidant supplements and semen parameters: An evidence-based review. Int J Reprod Biomed. 2016;14(12):729-736.
  5. Zinc, the folic acid supplement does not improve male fertility, NIH study suggests. (2021). Retrieved 30 March 2021, from https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/zinc-folic-acid-supplement-does-not-improve-male-fertility-nih-study-suggests
  6. Garolla A, Maiorino M, Roverato A, Roveri A, Ursini F, Foresta C. Oral carnitine supplementation increases sperm motility in asthenozoospermic men with normal sperm phospholipid hydroperoxide glutathione peroxidase levels. Fertil Steril. 2005 Feb;83(2):355-61. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2004.10.010. PMID: 15705374.
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  11. Ramlau-Hansen CH, Moeller UK, Bonde JP, Olsen J, Thulstrup AM. Are serum levels of vitamin D associated with semen quality? Results from a cross-sectional study in young healthy men. Fertil Steril. 2011 Mar 1;95(3):1000-4. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2010.11.002. Epub 2010 Dec 3. PMID: 21122842.
  12. Ahmad MK, Mahdi AA, Shukla KK, Islam N, Rajender S, Madhukar D, Shankhwar SN, Ahmad S. Withania somnifera improves semen quality by regulating reproductive hormone levels and oxidative stress in seminal plasma of infertile males. Fertil Steril. 2010 Aug;94(3):989-96. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.04.046. Epub 2009 Jun 6. PMID: 19501822.
  13. Ambiye VR, Langade D, Dongre S, Aptikar P, Kulkarni M, Dongre A. Clinical Evaluation of the Spermatogenic Activity of the Root Extract of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in Oligospermic Males: A Pilot Study. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2013;2013:571420. doi: 10.1155/2013/571420. Epub 2013 Nov 28. PMID: 24371462; PMCID: PMC3863556.
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  15. Nargund VH. Effects of psychological stress on male fertility. Nat Rev Urol. 2015 Jul;12(7):373-82. doi: 10.1038/nrurol.2015.112. Epub 2015 Jun 9. PMID: 26057063.
  16. Bhongade MB, Prasad S, Jiloha RC, Ray PC, Mohapatra S, Koner BC. Effect of psychological stress on fertility hormones and seminal quality in male partners of infertile couples. Andrologia. 2015 Apr;47(3):336-42. doi: 10.1111/and.12268. Epub 2014 Mar 26. PMID: 24673246.
  17. Palmer NO, Bakos HW, Fullston T, Lane M. Impact of obesity on male fertility, sperm function and molecular composition. Spermatogenesis. 2012 Oct 1;2(4):253-263. doi: 10.4161/spmg.21362. PMID: 23248766; PMCID: PMC3521747.
  18. Chen Q, Yang H, Zhou N, Sun L, Bao H, Tan L, Chen H, Ling X, Zhang G, Huang L, Li L, Ma M, Yang H, Wang X, Zou P, Peng K, Liu T, Cui Z, Ao L, Roenneberg T, Zhou Z, Cao J. Inverse U-shaped Association between Sleep Duration and Semen Quality: Longitudinal Observational Study (MARHCS) in Chongqing, China. Sleep. 2016 Jan 1;39(1):79-86. doi: 10.5665/sleep.5322. PMID: 26350472; PMCID: PMC4678345.
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  20. Chavarro JE, Toth TL, Sadio SM, Hauser R. Soy food and isoflavone intake in relation to semen quality parameters among men from an infertility clinic. Hum Reprod. 2008 Nov;23(11):2584-90. doi: 10.1093/humrep/den243. Epub 2008 Jul 23. PMID: 18650557; PMCID: PMC2721724.
  21. Vaamonde D, Da Silva-Grigoletto ME, García-Manso JM, Barrera N, Vaamonde-Lemos R. Physically active men show better semen parameters and hormone values than sedentary men. Eur J Appl Physiol. 2012 Sep;112(9):3267-73. doi: 10.1007/s00421-011-2304-6. Epub 2012 Jan 11. PMID: 22234399.
  22. Jóźków P, Rossato M. The Impact of Intense Exercise on Semen Quality. Am J Mens Health. 2017;11(3):654-662. doi:10.1177/1557988316669045
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  24. Kilic M. Effect of fatiguing bicycle exercise on thyroid hormone and testosterone levels in sedentary males supplemented with oral zinc. Neuro Endocrinol Lett. 2007 Oct;28(5):681-5. PMID: 17984944.
  25. Bodenmann G, Atkins DC, Schär M, Poffet V. The association between daily stress and sexual activity. J Fam Psychol. 2010 Jun;24(3):271-9. doi: 10.1037/a0019365. PMID: 20545400.
  26. Brownlee KK, Moore AW, Hackney AC. Relationship between circulating cortisol and testosterone: influence of physical exercise. J Sports Sci Med. 2005 Mar 1;4(1):76-83. PMID: 24431964; PMCID: PMC3880087.
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