Antioxidant Supplementation Improves DNA Fragmentation in Men
What’s the relationship between antioxidants and sperm?
Sperm DNA fragmentation (a common male infertility factor which can be tested for), is known to compromise male fertility. This study was conducted to find out if the pathologically increased incidence of DNA fragmentation in ejaculated sperm could be reduced by oral treatment with two antioxidants, vitamins C and E.
64 men with unexplained infertility and an elevated (15%) percentage of DNA-fragmented spermatozoa in the ejaculate were randomised between an antioxidant treatment (1g vitamin C and 1g vitamin E daily for 2 months) group and a placebo group. Sperm DNA fragmentation was evaluated before and after treatment.
Results:
The percentage of DNA-fragmented sperm was markedly reduced in the antioxidant treatment group after the treatment, while there was no difference in the placebo group.
Conclusion:
This data shows that sperm DNA damage can be efficiently treated with oral antioxidants administered during a relatively short time period.
Read the full article on the link between antioxidants and sperm.
Journal of Andrology, Vol. 26, No. 3, May/June 2005
Where to from here?
If you’re having trouble falling pregnant, consider getting the DNA fragmentation tested. It’s really simple and can be done as part of a routine sperm analysis. It could make all the difference! Book online today.