Fitness
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How Do I Choose the Best Vitamins for Sperm?

A. Gamm
A. Gamm

Today, many infertile men are trying holistic methods such as taking vitamins for sperm. The best vitamins for this are presumably Vitamins C, E and B12. These vitamins should be used together with selenium, zinc, selenium, and L-carnitine in a multivitamin form for the best results. Vitamins and antioxidants have shown in some studies to improve sperm motility, sperm count and overall sperm health. This is because they fight free-radicals, increase ascorbic acid, and provide essential sperm nutrition that many men lack.

Various clinical studies performed show great potential in Vitamin C as one of the essential vitamins for sperm health. The research showed improved sperm motility and slight increases in sperm count. Studies also showed that vitamin C may reduce and prevent sperm abnormalities. According to analysis, men who suffered infertility as a result of antibodies against the sperm had almost 100% pregnancy rates with their partners. There is no definite amount of vitamin C that doctors recommend to take, but 1,000 mg a day showed the most results in testing.

Hot tubs and baths lessen the life of sperm.
Hot tubs and baths lessen the life of sperm.

Vitamin E displayed the most consistently positive results in clinical tests, making it one of the best vitamins for sperm. It increased sperm motility, and reduced cell oxidation and lipid peroxidation potential in numerous tests conducted. On average, a maximum of 800 IUs of vitamin E a day should be taken. Men who suffer from high blood pressure should take half this amount per day, and those who suffer from liver disease or overactive thyroids should avoid taking vitamin E supplements altogether.

Vitamin C is an essential vitamin for sperm.
Vitamin C is an essential vitamin for sperm.

Although a deficiency in vitamin B12 lowers sperm count and sperm motility, this vitamin is still substantially beneficial for men who do not have deficiencies. According to studies, vitamin B12 has the potential to more than quadruple sperm count and increase motility by 50%. The results of vitamin B12 sperm benefits are the least consistent, but the overall health benefits of vitamin B12 still make it one of the top recommended vitamins for sperm. Approximately 1,000 mcg of B12 should be consumed each day.

Some men have been able to improve their sperm health by taking vitamins C, E and B12 with the minerals selenium and zinc and the amino-acid L-carnitine.
Some men have been able to improve their sperm health by taking vitamins C, E and B12 with the minerals selenium and zinc and the amino-acid L-carnitine.

For men to get the most efficient use of these vitamins for sperm, doctors recommend taking them with other supplements, such as zinc, selenium and L-canitine. This is because the vitamins naturally work well together to reach the same health benefits for both the body and sperm. Zinc is essential to proper male sexual function and is a vital part of hormone and sperm production and motility. Selenium is needed for sperm and hormone production. L-carntine levels in the body are thought to be directly linked to sperm motility, and deficiencies may result in abnormal production and function in sperm.

Discussion Comments

ZipLine

@ysmina-- I take my vitamins for male fertility separately because it's hard to find a single supplement with everything and multi-vitamins tend to have high doses of some vitamins and low doses of others.

I'm taking vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin E and krill oil. The krill oil is for the Omega 3 content, so any other supplement that's a good source of Omega 3 can be taken as well. I usually take vitamin B12 and vitamin C one day and then vitamin E and krill oil the next. This reduces potential side effects of the vitamins.

All of these supplements are basically antioxidants and natural anti-inflammatory compounds. I think it's the toxins and inflammation that damages sperm.

ysmina

@ddljohn-- I'm taking a multivitamin supplement that has coenzyme Q10 and B vitamins among other things. It was recommended by my doctor because I have low sperm count and my sperm have poor motility.

I started taking the supplement a few weeks ago so I don't know if it's working just yet. Next month, I have another check-up and I will know by then if the vitamins are helping.

You should ask your doctor for a recommendation. It might be easier to take a multi-vitamin supplement rather than taking every vitamin for sperm motility separately.

ddljohn

Has anyone here tried coenzyme Q10 for low sperm motility?

I'm already taking vitamin C and vitamin E, which improve sperm health and motility. I just heard about coenzyme Q10 and I'm wondering if I should try that as well.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Hot tubs and baths lessen the life of sperm.
      By: Downunderphoto
      Hot tubs and baths lessen the life of sperm.
    • Vitamin C is an essential vitamin for sperm.
      By: charles taylor
      Vitamin C is an essential vitamin for sperm.
    • Some men have been able to improve their sperm health by taking vitamins C, E and B12 with the minerals selenium and zinc and the amino-acid L-carnitine.
      By: blueringmedia
      Some men have been able to improve their sperm health by taking vitamins C, E and B12 with the minerals selenium and zinc and the amino-acid L-carnitine.
    • There is growing evidence that the vitamin E found in certain foods and supplements contributes to sperm health.
      By: Halfpoint
      There is growing evidence that the vitamin E found in certain foods and supplements contributes to sperm health.
    • Vitamins can help improve sperm motility.
      By: Joshua Resnick
      Vitamins can help improve sperm motility.
    • Men who consume plenty of vegetables and other vitamin-packed foods may have a higher sperm count than males who do not.
      By: Minerva Studio
      Men who consume plenty of vegetables and other vitamin-packed foods may have a higher sperm count than males who do not.