7 essential vitamins that can help boost male fertility

It is important for men to include the right foods in their diet to increase their chances of parenthood. Here are 7 vitamins that may help.

Fertility issues in both men and women are quite common nowadays and a part of it can also be due to lifestyle issues. Fertility in men can be affected by the everyday stress and faulty lifestyle habits like drinking alcohol, smoking, and eating fattening foods. Infertility is men is diagnosed when pregnancy is not achieved after 1 year of intimate relationship without using birth control. In women, clinically, having two or more failed pregnancies would indicate infertility. Certain medical conditions can also contribute to fertility problems. According to CDC, one-third of infertility cases are caused by male reproductive issues, one-third by female reproductive issues, and one-third by both male and female reproductive issues or unknown factors. (Also read: Male fertility tips: 5 proven ways to boost low sperm count)

Among the most common issues that lead to infertility in men could be issues in how the testicles work, hormone imbalances or blockages in the male reproductive organs. (istockphoto)

Among the most common issues that lead to infertility in men could be issues in how the testicles work, hormone imbalances or blockages in the male reproductive organs. In around half the cases, the cause of male infertility is unknown. Lack of sperm or problem in sperm movement can cause this.

Role of nutrition in fertility

Nutrition can play a major role in fertility and taking essential vitamins can boost the chance of conceiving. Certain antioxidants can help boost sperm quality, sperm motility and among a variety of other health benefits.

"Infertility is commonly seen among couples. The male often encounters problems such as low sperm count, erection, and ejaculation problems. The factors that contribute to male infertility are stress, drug abuse, alcohol, chemical exposure, smoking, obesity, certain medication, trauma to the testicles, past history of infections, and history of undescended testicles. Did you know? Fertility can be improved by adhering to a healthy diet by taking essential vitamins," says Dr. Akash Surana, Fertility Consultant, NOVA IVF, Vashi Mumbai.

Vitamins for male fertility

Here are some important vitamins to improve fertility suggested by Dr Surana:

Vitamin C: It is one of the most important antioxidants that is needed to improve sperm health, including sperm count. Various studies also suggest that Vitamin C ends to increase sperm motility and decreased amounts of deformed sperm cells. Bell peppers, strawberries, tomatoes, cruciferous vegetables such broccoli, cabbage, papayas, lemon, guava, Kiwi, and Indian gooseberry. Hence, vitamin C can help to enhance fertility in men.

Vitamin B12: It is required for the sperm production process. Fish, meat, eggs, and dairy should be eaten to get enough amount of this vitamin.

Zinc: It is known to increase testosterone and promote fertility along with muscle growth. Mushrooms, spinach, pumpkin seeds, chickpea, lentils, and yogurt can be eaten by men. Moreover, having a low level of zinc is linked to low sperm count, poor sperm quality, and decreased fertility rates.

Vitamin D: Men with higher D levels had improved overall fertility and sperm count. It can also help to increase testosterone levels. So, try to opt for salmon, cod liver oil, tuna, dairy, and sardines.

Folate: This is also essential for fertility. According to the evidence available, folate supplementation can help to raise sperm count. Oranges, grapefruit, beans, asparagus, peanuts, avocado, sweet corn, soybeans, and nuts can do the trick.

Vitamin E: It means a group of fat-soluble antioxidants that protect against the damage done by free radicals. Hence, vitamin E is known to help men to avoid sperm damage. Opt for vitamin Erich foods such as sunflower seeds, almonds, hazelnuts, spinach, and broccoli.

Selenium: Is needed for healthy sperm production. Low levels of selenium impact sperm health. So, add seafood, baked beans, tofu, and flax seeds to the diet.

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