When it comes to having a baby, often the focus is on female health. However, it stands to reason if it takes both sperm and an egg to produce a baby, then male health is equally as important.
A key part of male reproduction are sperm. While tiny and only visible by microscope, sperm are complex little creatures. Each sperm carries a tightly wrapped DNA package of 23 chromosomes and seeks out the most efficient way to deliver this to the waiting 23 chromosomes of the female oocyte, or egg.
For sperm to maximise the potential for conception, they need to be healthy – including being abundant in number, of the right shape and size, as well as being strong swimmers.
There are certain nutrients that can be beneficial for sperm health. We look at just some of these and why they’re so important.
Zinc
Zinc is a mineral with antioxidant properties that plays a key role in supporting reproductive system health in males. Zinc is a necessary component in the creation of a sperm’s outer membrane and tail. Without these features, sperm can’t mature. If sperm are unable to reach the full stage of maturity it becomes increasingly difficult for them to be both mobile and strong enough to travel the distance necessary to fertilise an egg.
Herbs of Gold Ultra Zinc + contains high-strength zinc that is organically bound to support absorption. This one-a-day capsule supports male reproductive system health, while also supporting sperm health and sperm motility.
CoQ10
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an antioxidant that the body produces naturally. Cells use CoQ10 for growth and maintenance. CoQ10 in the body has an important antioxidant effect on sperm, supporting overall sperm health. In sperm cells, the majority of CoQ10 is concentrated in the midpiece of sperm, providing sperm with the energy they need for movement, supporting sperm motility.
Herbs of Gold CoQ10 150mg contains naturally fermented coenzyme Q10 in a soy-free capsule, acting as an antioxidant while also supporting both sperm health and sperm motility.
Vitamin C
Like CoQ10, vitamin C is an important antioxidant. Vitamin C is concentrated in seminal fluid where it protects sperm from free radical damage and preserves the integrity of DNA. As vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, it is not stored in the body, so requires frequent replenishing in the diet.
Herbs of Gold Vitamin C 1000 Plus is a high-potency vitamin C complex containing citrus bioflavonoids and zinc to support prostate and reproductive health in males. Vitamin C 1000 Plus contains 1g of total ascorbic acid (vitamin C), supporting sperm health and sperm motility.
Selenium
Selenium is an important mineral for supporting male reproductive health, necessary for testosterone synthesis, normal sperm production and sperm motility.
Herbs of Gold Selenium MAX provides 150 micrograms of selenium per capsule. A potent antioxidant and free radical scavenger, selenium supports sperm health and sperm motility in males.