Selenium and NAC for sperm health
Efficacy of selenium and/or N-acetyl-cysteine for improving semen parameters in infertile men: a double-blind, placebo controlled, randomized study.
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional. Terms
Surprising Findings
Improved sperm parameters did not lead to higher pregnancy or live birth rates
Common belief is that better sperm quality directly translates to higher fertility success, but this study shows that's not the case—highlighting a disconnect between lab measurements and actual reproductive outcomes.
Practical Takeaways
Men with idiopathic oligo-asthenoteratospermia may see temporary improvements in sperm quality with selenium and NAC, but should not expect increased pregnancy rates.
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional. Terms
Surprising Findings
Improved sperm parameters did not lead to higher pregnancy or live birth rates
Common belief is that better sperm quality directly translates to higher fertility success, but this study shows that's not the case—highlighting a disconnect between lab measurements and actual reproductive outcomes.
Practical Takeaways
Men with idiopathic oligo-asthenoteratospermia may see temporary improvements in sperm quality with selenium and NAC, but should not expect increased pregnancy rates.
Publication
Journal
The Journal of urology
Year
2009
Authors
M. Safarinejad, S. Safarinejad
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Claims (10)
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) improves liver function, supports cellular detoxification, modulates inflammation in adipose tissue, enhances fat loss, and improves recovery from physical exertion.
N-acetylcysteine supplementation reduces exercise-induced oxidative stress in skeletal muscle by serving as a glutathione precursor, thereby improving recovery and maintaining performance during repeated exercise bouts.
N-acetylcysteine supplementation at 300-600 mg/day provides optimal benefits for most individuals, with diminishing returns at higher doses and potential gastrointestinal side effects.
Taking 200 micrograms of selenium every day for about 6 months helps men with certain types of infertility have better sperm quality, including more sperm, better movement, and better shape.
Taking 600 milligrams of N-acetyl-cysteine every day for about 6 months helps men with certain types of infertility have better sperm quality, including more sperm, better movement, and better shape.