Male infertility helped by coenzyme Q10
Added 01.07.2009
Male infertility is an increasing problem; sperm quality disorders, injury to or disease of the testicles, hormone disorders, impotence, pharmaceutical drugs and exposure to environmental toxins are just some of the causes. Male infertility accounts for 40% of all infertility cases with about half of them involving total infertility.
The findings of a new study, however, will no doubt ease the minds of many men who have to deal with infertility.
Coenzyme Q10 enhances sperm quality
Coenzyme Q10 supplements may benefit male infertility by enhancing sperm quality, says a study published in the Journal of Urology.The Scientific Study
Background information
Two hundred and twelve infertile men were given either 300 mg of coenzyme Q10 supplements or placebo every day for 26 weeks followed by 30 weeks of no treatment.
Results
Sperm density and motility improved significantly in the group taking coenzyme Q10 supplements (p=0.01). Sperm count improved with an increase in the number of "normal" sperm and acrosome reaction (an indicator of egg penetration and fertilisation) increased (p=0.01).
Coenzyme Q10, a universal antioxidant
Coenzyme Q10 is found in the mitochondria of virtually all our cells. Its main role involves generating energy in the form of adenosine triphospate (ATP) and is most abundant in the heart and liver as these organs require the most energy. As an antioxidant, coenzyme Q10 also plays a vital role in maintaining levels of vitamins C and E. Scientists believe it is coenzyme Q10's antioxidant quality that enhances sperm quality; coenzyme Q10 is present in the testes and may exert its effects by combating oxidative stress, which has been linked to reduced sperm quality.References:
U.S. National Institutes of Health
Safarinejad, M. & all. "Efficacy of coenzyme Q10 on semen parameters, sperm function and reproductive hormones in infertile men." Journal of Urology. Vol. 182, Issue 1. July 2009.
Balercia, G. & all. "Coenzyme Q10 supplementation in infertile men with idiopathic asthenozoospermia: an open, uncontrolled pilot study." Fertility and Sterility: Journal of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Vol. 81, Issue 1. January 2004.
Safarinejad, M. & all. "Efficacy of coenzyme Q10 on semen parameters, sperm function and reproductive hormones in infertile men." Journal of Urology. Vol. 182, Issue 1. July 2009.
Balercia, G. & all. "Coenzyme Q10 supplementation in infertile men with idiopathic asthenozoospermia: an open, uncontrolled pilot study." Fertility and Sterility: Journal of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Vol. 81, Issue 1. January 2004.
