Unlike prescription medications, the FDA does not tightly regulate dietary supplements, and many have limited evidence of improving fertility. However, a few ingredients have been shown to promote healthy sperm.

Lycopene, vitamin C, l-carnitine, CoQ10, and zinc are proven to improve sperm health. In addition, one study found that taking folic acid and zinc together improved semen parameters.

Increased Sperm Count

Men suffering from low sperm count can take dietary supplements to increase sperm health and count. These supplements can include a variety of vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, or enzymes.

Zinc is a mineral shown to improve sperm count and motility. It may work by increasing testosterone production, an essential hormone for sperm health. A small study found that taking a zinc supplement increased the volume of semen and progressive sperm motility percentage in participants.

Vitamin C may also help boost sperm count and improve sperm motility. It is an antioxidant that can protect the body and sperm cells from oxidative damage. A tiny study discovered that ingesting 2,000 milligrams of vitamin C twice daily for two months increased sperm count and motility.

Folate is another crucial nutrient for sperm health. A few studies have shown that low folate levels are linked to poor sperm health. Folate is available in several dietary sources, including green leafy vegetables, fruits, and nuts. However, choosing a supplement containing methyl folate rather than synthetic folic acid is advisable because the body cannot absorb folic acid or methyl folate.

Another potential supplement for boosting sperm count is ashwagandha root extract. The supplement also appears to protect sperm from oxidative damage by inhibiting the activity of NFkB, an enzyme that regulates the immune system and inflammatory responses.

Improved Sperm Motility

In addition to a balanced diet, the best male fertility supplements can support healthy sperm. These include omega three fatty acids (docosahexaenoic acid [DHA] and eicosapentaenoic acid [EPA], vitamin C, selenium, and zinc), coenzyme Q10, and vitamin D.

Omega 3 fatty acids are a vital part of the lipid membrane of the sperm cell and are associated with sperm motility and quality. You can get these essential fatty acids by eating fatty fish, walnuts, chia, and flax seeds.

A trace mineral called selenium is essential for the health and motility of sperm. A deficiency can lead to abnormal sperm production and poor motility. Several studies have shown that supplementing with selenium improves sperm motility and morphology.

Another nutrient that is important for fertility is vitamin E. It is an antioxidant that protects the sperm cell’s membrane and has been shown to improve sperm count, motility, and morphology. You can find it in various foods, including avocados and broccoli.

Many men who have fertility issues may not be aware of the potential impact their diet and lifestyle can have on their fertility. It is estimated that over one-third of infertility cases are due to a male factor. Addressing some of these factors can help to increase sperm counts and improve sperm motility, which can, in turn, improve pregnancy rates.

Increased Sperm Quality

Many men struggle to have healthy sperm. It is not just about the number of swimmers in the semen- sperm must swim well and be good quality. The best sperm are those that can reach the egg and fertilize it.

Several nutrients have been shown to help with this- including zinc, vitamin C, folic acid, coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), and antioxidants like ashwagandha, shilajit, and omega-3 fatty acids. Diets high in dietary sources of these nutrients may also improve sperm health.

Unfortunately, getting enough of these nutrients from food alone is not easy, so supplementation is often necessary for male fertility. It is important to remember that the FDA does not regulate nutritional supplements, so be wary of products with outrageous claims.

Choosing a supplement that has been researched and that lists each study in which it draws its evidence is thoroughly recommended. 

Increased Sperm Receptivity

Men who experience fertility issues can have trouble getting pregnant because of the narrow window of time in which the uterus is willing to allow an embryo to implant. This results from a synchronization between the ovaries and the uterus that can be affected by various factors, including sperm count, sperm motility, and sperm quality.

Taking certain supplements that are known to increase sperm receptivity can help you achieve pregnancy more easily. These include antioxidants such as vitamin C, zinc, coenzyme Q10, and selenium. These nutrients help to reduce oxidative stress in sperm, which is detrimental to the receptivity of the uterus and the fertilization process.

Folic acid (vitamin B9) is vital in sperm production and development. It has been found that supplementing with folate and zinc can significantly improve sperm concentration, motility, and morphology. Folic acid is found in citrus fruits, berries, red meat, poultry, fish, whole grains, avocados, and leafy vegetables.

Inositol, also known as myo-inositol, is another nutrient that can boost sperm receptivity. A small study showed that Myo-inositol improved sperm motility and conception rates in men who took it. This is because it contains phytoestrogens, which can stimulate testosterone levels in the body and promote a healthy reproductive system.