Written by Ben Bunting BA(Hons), PGCert.
Does Coenzyme Q10 help improve male fertility? The answer is yes. This substance protects sperm from oxidative stress and improves motility and DNA fragmentation. It also promotes healthy morphology and density. However, it isn’t just useful for sperm. This substance is beneficial for all cells in the body, including ovaries and uterus.
Coenzyme Q10 protects sperm from oxidative stress
Various reproductive disorders and defects can result from oxidative stress. Free radicals and reactive oxygen species are a major source of oxidative stress. They are also related to infertility. Although sperm cytoplasm has an antioxidant defense system, its activity is limited. Scientists are still searching for substances that can increase the activity of the antioxidant defense system in sperm.
As a result, high concentrations of ROS (reactive oxygen species) can be detrimental for the functioning of male reproductive cells. In the human reproductive tract, the sperm’s oxygen metabolism generates high amounts of these potentially harmful free radicals. Sperm are particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress due to an imbalance between the antioxidant defence system and scavenging systems. However, low levels of ROS are necessary for regulating the functions of sperm.
The antioxidant properties of Coenzyme Q10 have been shown to benefit reproductive cells as well. In one study, it was found that CoQ10 improved the motility of sperm and increased the number of sperm cells. The study also found that coenzyme Q10 improves egg quality and may slow the aging process.
It increases sperm motility
A new study has found that Coenzyme Q10 can increase the motility of sperm and improve sperm quality. Researchers found that men with oligoasthenoteratozoospermia had decreased sperm coenzyme Q10 levels. Supplementation with Coenzyme Q10 also significantly improved sperm quality and concentration. It took three months before the results were statistically significant.
Excess oxidative stress has been linked to a decrease in sperm motility. Oxidative stress is a breakdown in the balance between antioxidants and pro-oxidants, resulting in DNA damage, protein oxidation, and abnormal sperm function. Excess ROS also reduces sperm motility and affects their morphology. ROS cause the body to damage sperm, impairing fertilization, and even lead to abnormal embryonic development and congenital defects.
The efficacy of CoQ10 for improving sperm motility was found in a study conducted by Nadjarzadeh et al. In their study, a subgroup of sperm treated with 50 mM CoQ10 experienced a significant increase in sperm motility, as compared to 19.1+9% in the control group. The authors concluded that the results were consistent with previous studies and suggested that CoQ10 could increase sperm motility in men.
One study, conducted on 60 infertile men, showed that supplementation with CoQ10 improves sperm motility. The researchers compared the effects of CoQ10 with those of men with normal motility. They also noted that the two groups had significantly higher sperm tocopherol content, while the third group experienced a significant increase in sperm density and morphology.
It reduces sperm DNA fragmentation
The presence of Coenzyme Q10 in sperm seminal fluid may help prevent the fragmentation of DNA. This compound is present in the body and is involved in several metabolic and antioxidant processes. When added to sperm culture media, Coenzyme Q10 can reduce DNA fragmentation by 80% or more. This antioxidant supplement may be an excellent option for men who are facing ejaculation.
The researchers tested the effect of zinc, D-Asp, and CoQ10 on sperm DNA fragmentation by performing TUNEL assays on a sample of sperm. After treatment, sperm samples were centrifuged at 400 g for 10 min and analysed on a heated stage at 37degC. The samples were then analyzed using a Nikon TE 2000 inverted microscope with a Basler Vision Technology A312 fc camera connected to a Sperm Class Analyzer. Each treatment resulted in the analysis of four hundred sperm cells.
Oxidative stress is one of the major factors that contribute to male infertility. In addition to sperm DNA fragmentation, Coenzyme Q10 has also been shown to improve several parameters of sperm health. According to statistics, approximately 15% of couples in the United States are infertile. A male factor is responsible for half of the cases, while the other third is idiopathic.
Final remarks
The research does demonstrate that CoQ10 is an effective antioxidant that can help improve many aspects of male infertility. Therefore, if you are having issues trying to conceive with your partner, introducing this to your daily intake through the use of a supplement or eating foods such as fatty fish, seeds, nuts, oranges, organ meats or legumes may help.
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