Up to 1 in 6 Canadian couples now experience fertility problems. Of course, infertility can occur as a result of male or female health problems, or a combination of problems with both partners. While there may be several underlying causes or complicating factors, male infertility is often caused by poor sperm morphology, low sperm count, suboptimal sperm motility, or a combination of all three problems. Cyto-Matrix Fertility Matrix - Sperm Motility Support is designed to improve all of these sperm parameters, increase testosterone, and ultimately improve male fertility.
A common theme surrounding disrupted sperm parameters is mitochondrial damage resulting from reactive oxygen species from environmental exposures. This generally explains the adverse effects of alcohol, smoking, poor diet, and other factors that affect male fertility. However, it may also explain why several reviews and meta-analyses have definitively demonstrated the ability of antioxidants and mitochondrial nutrients not only to improve sperm parameters but also to increase live birth rates and pregnancy rates in subfertile couples.
Coenzyme Q10 is one of the most promising antioxidants for the treatment of male infertility. As a nutrient necessary for mitochondrial function and ATP energy production, dozens of studies, alone or in combination with other nutrients, demonstrate beneficial effects on semen parameters. A 2021 systematic review of 24 trials found that coenzyme Q10 doses of 100–400 mg/day resulted in consistent improvements in sperm motility, morphology, and count, seminal antioxidant activity, and pregnancy rates. While treatment duration tended to be positively correlated with semen parameters, some studies even found beneficial effects on semen parameters up to 12 months after supplementation discontinued.
As mentioned, CoQ10 for male fertility enhancement is often combined with other nutrients such as zinc and selenium. Zinc's role in various aspects of male health, including testosterone production, has long been studied, and its impact on fertility and sperm health is no different. A meta-analysis of 20 studies found that seminal plasma zinc concentrations were significantly lower in infertile men, and that supplementation can increase semen volume while improving sperm motility and morphology. Zinc, in combination with other vitamins such as vitamin E, C, and folate, has also been shown to benefit sperm count. Regarding selenium, not only is it beneficial for sperm parameters when combined with other antioxidants like zinc and CoQ10, but solo supplementation of 100 mcg or more per day for 3 months shows benefits for sperm count and motility. This makes sense given that selenium is necessary for proper spermatogenesis.
Continuing on the theme of mitochondrial energy production, high concentrations of carnitine are found in the male reproductive tract, particularly in the epididymis, suggesting its crucial role in energy metabolism and sperm maturation. Carnitine provides energy to sperm by transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria, thereby improving sperm motility. More than a dozen human clinical trials have confirmed the use of L-carnitine, acetyl-L-carnitine (the form capable of penetrating the central nervous system), or a combination of the two to improve sperm motility and vitality, while several of these same studies have shown improved pregnancy rates.
When it comes to testosterone production, vitamin D is another key nutrient beyond zinc. While more research is needed to determine the exact relationship to testosterone regulation, serum vitamin D concentrations have been shown to be a significant positive predictor of total testosterone levels in several observational trials. Additionally, one interventional trial found that vitamin D supplementation helped increase testosterone levels in men who were vitamin D deficient at baseline.
Finally, various plant extracts have been shown to be beneficial for male infertility, from improving sperm counts to increasing libido. Crocus sativus, more commonly known as saffron, is an example of a traditional spice that now has evidence supporting its classic use as an aphrodisiac. Not only has saffron been studied for issues related to mood, cognitive function, and sleep, but modern research has confirmed that for men, it can effectively improve symptoms of erectile dysfunction, increase overall sexual function, and improve sperm counts.
Withania somnifera, an adaptogenic herb also known as ashwagandha, has a similar application in the world of men's health. Specifically, KSM-66® ashwagandha, a proprietary full-spectrum extract of withania root, is unique among other ashwagandha root extracts because it has been studied and shown to improve sperm parameters, muscle strength, and testosterone levels in men. One KSM-66® study showed a 167% increase in sperm count, a 53% increase in semen volume, and a 57% increase in sperm motility in oligospermic men after 90 days. KSM-66® also has over 20 human clinical trials to support its effectiveness in the areas of memory and cognition, stress reduction, improved thyroid function, and weight management.
Fertility Matrix - Sperm Motility Support combines all of these evidence-based nutrients to support sperm motility, morphology, and count, optimize testosterone levels, boost libido, and improve fertility in men. Fertility Matrix - Sperm Motility Support comes in a convenient pineapple-flavored powder for increased compliance and ease of use. Each 150-gram bottle contains a 25-day supply. Fertility Matrix - Sperm Motility Support is vegan and free of GMOs, gluten, soy, and dairy.