Free radicals are highly reactive chemicals, which in the body can cause a chain reaction that damage cells. Each time a free radical causes damage, it produces another free radical, which then does the same thing. This is the basis of the chain reaction that is so problematic.
An antioxidant is a chemical, which terminates the chain reaction caused by free radicals. Antioxidants may be synthesized in the body or obtained through diet. Many vitamins and food nutrients such as beta-carotene found in carrots, and Vitamin C from citrus fruits are antioxidants.
Free radicals are formed as part of natural chemical processes in the body and are kept in check by antioxidants.
How do free radicals affect male fertility?
There are several reasons why sperm cells are susceptible to damage from free radicals.
- Sperm cell membranes can be damaged as free radicals react with the fatty acids that make up the membrane structure
- A chemical called aldehydes, can be formed from the unwanted chain reaction and this poison can affect sperm DNA.
Antioxidants improve sperm motility
A 2019 review of trials involving antioxidants showed marked improvement in sperm motility with antioxidants. Others were not so impressive, particularly where the end-point was live births. However, so many other factors come into play in order to achieve a live birth. Further research is needed to gain a better understanding of the complex processes at work here.
Sources for antioxidants
Food that are high in antioxidants include:
- Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons and grapefruits are high in Vitamin C
- Nuts particularly peanuts and almonds are high in Vitamin E
- Fish, shellfish, garlic and green vegetables contain Selenium*
- Broccoli tomatoes are high in Vitamin A
- Shellfish, pumpkin seeds and dark chocolate contain ZInc*
- Carrots contain Beta-carotene
*Not all nutrients are antioxidants themselves. Some, like zinc and selenium, help the body make its own antioxidants.
It is clear from the research that antioxidants play a part in male fertility and should not be ignored. More research is needed to define their exact role, and then to refine this into clinical practice. By adjusting your diet to improve antioxidant intake may help improve fertility.
