In a previous article, we presented the most important vitamins for male fertility. Along with vitamins, however, several microelements also have a strong influence on the quality of sperm and a man’s fertility. Some of them we normally associate with other processes in the human body, and their influence on spermatogenesis and male fertility often remains in the background. However, it is a fact and the regular intake of these microelements is a leading factor for every man wishing to ensure his sexual health. Iron Iron ions are involved in the structure of a number of enzymes important for spermatogenesis. It has been established that it is iron that ensures the motility of spermatozoa to the greatest extent. In addition, clinical studies have shown that iron is the key factor regulating normal pH and viscosity of seminal fluid. Copper Copper ions are cofactors of important enzymes that ensure the production of energy in cells. Without ensuring the optimal action of these enzymes, the motility and viability of spermatozoa in the ejaculate drops significantly. Many studies have shown that copper ions have a direct and positive effect on a number of parameters determining sperm quality. For example, men with azoospermia have been found to have much lower levels of copper ions in their seminal fluid than normal. Other data show that copper also has a positive effect on the amount of seminal fluid and mature sperm released during ejaculation. NEWS_MORE_BOX Selenium Selenium is among the trace elements with the most powerful antioxidant effect. Studies show that chronic selenium deficiency in men is a key cause of infertility. The reason lies in the fact that men who do not get enough selenium are depriving themselves of one of nature’s most powerful means of neutralizing free radicals. Oxidative stress provoked by them slows down the maturation of spermatozoa. Selenium neutralizes this stress and ensures the normal passage of male germ cells through the processes of differentiation to mature spermatozoa. Selenium deficiency is also associated with a weakened ability of spermatozoa to reach the egg. Like copper, selenium levels in semen are also decreased in most men diagnosed with azoospermia or another form of reduced fertility. Zinc Zinc is among the main trace elements supporting the development and division of cells, including sex cells. It is the normal development, differentiation and division of sex cells that is among the main conditions for maintaining sperm quality and male fertility. Along with its participation in these processes, zinc ensures the functions of the gonads and the secretion of male sex hormones. Chronic zinc deficiency is associated with a reduced amount of viable sperm in the ejaculate and with more serious conditions such as hypogonadism. Studies have shown that normalizing the intake of iron, copper, selenium and zinc is among the first steps in addressing male infertility in cases wherewhen it is provoked by nutritional deficiencies. The results in most cases are positive and quick, and only in the absence of such should more serious medicinal measures be taken to improve fertility.
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