Increasing Sperm Count
Answered by: Susan Eagles
Question from: Name not given
Posted on: October 29, 1998

Is there anything that can increase sperm production? I have noticed that the quantity has decreased with age.

A low sperm count and decreased motility are thought to be related to environmental toxins including chemicals, radiation, pollution, cigarette smoking and drug use, and to stress or inadequate diet. Avoid caffeine products (coffee, tea, colas) which promote infertility. Alcohol is a male reproductive tract toxin. Studies have shown that alcohol abstinence can improve reproductive disorders. Sperm count and motility are adversely affected by excessive heat or a prolonged fever during the process of sperm formation.

A key mineral deficiency in infertility is zinc, which may be made up with bran and pumpkin seeds. Studies have shown that zinc supplementation increases sperm count and motility. The results of various studies show for an average of 30% of the infertile males studied, their wives became pregnant within 2 months to 2 years with zinc supplementation.

An orange a day helps keep sperm OK (Important role of Vitamin C - New Scientist 1992 #1812 p20). Vitamin C helps to keep the sperm from sticking together possibly by protecting from toxins. In a placebo-controlled study related by Melvyn Werbach, M.D. in “Nutritional Influences on Illness” (Third Line Press, Tarzana, California, (800) 916-0076 or (818) 996-0076) 100% of 2 groups of men, one taking 200 mg daily and one group 1000 mg daily, had impregnated their wives within 60 days, compared to none in the placebo group.

Supplementation with vitamin B12 sometimes increases sperm count and motility. Vitamin B6 is often recommended for male infertility, and is available in cauliflower & other brassicas.

Herbs that are useful reproductive aids are: Ginger has been shown in research to increase sperm count & motility. Panax Ginseng is often used to increase male fertility. The endocrine glands are responsible for sperm formation, and though the relationship to motility is unclear, herbs that support the endocrine system and that are often included in infertility formulas include Ginseng, Gotu Kola, Echinacea, Licorice and Wild Yam.

Herbs that are used to speed up the circulation of all body fluids include Capsicum, Ginkgo and Prickly Ash. These are used in infertility when a general circulation improvement is required.

Since sperm formation takes almost 3 months, results likely won’t be seen for at least this period.

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