Vitamin B12 is an important nutrient that helps to support healthy sperm production and sexual function
As part of the group of B vitamins, B12 plays many important roles in the human body. It supports red blood cell production, cellular metabolism, brain function and also influences sperm production and health.
Specifically, B12 is needed for DNA development and duplication, both critical components of healthy sperm development.
Sperm Count and Vitamin B12
Deficiencies in vitamin B12 can lead to genetic breakdown of sperm cells. Studies show that vitamin B12 deficiencies are actually common in both developed and developing nations[1]“Allen, L. (2009). How common is vitamin B-12 deficiency?. American Society for Nutrition. Volume 89, Issue 2, (pp. 6935-65).”. This is largely a result of a poor diet enriched with highly processed foods.
Vitamin B12 injections have been shown in studies to improve male fertility by boosting sperm count. Research by Sanler and Faragher showed that sperm count could be elevated to above 100 million per millilitre following daily administration of 1,000 mcg of vitamin B12[2]“Sandler B, Faragher B. (1984). Treatment of oligospermia with vitamin B12. Infertility, Volume 7:133–8.”.
Previously, these study participants had sperm counts less than 20 million per millilitre. This is considered below the normal range by the World Health Organisation and a level this low may contribute to infertility.
Erectile Dysfunction and Vitamin B12
Erectile dysfunction can develop for a range of reasons and in some cases it may be related to insufficient availability of B12. If this vitamin is lacking over an extended time period it can damage nerves within the penis and prevent erections.
Indirectly, this can lead to conception difficulties. Vitamin B12 levels should be determined as part of the routine testing if a man is experiencing erectile dysfunction. Adequate vitamin B12 will assist with protecting nerves and stimulate healthy blood circulation to support strong erections.
Vitamin B12 sources
Good natural sources of B12 include fortified cereals, shellfish, fish, eggs, cheese, beef and soy products. Many male fertility supplements and multi-vitamins contain vitamin B12 to ensure adequate supply of this important compound.
Using Vitamin B12 to Boost Male Fertility
Vitamin B12 is an important male fertility enhancing nutrient, but it is also just one of several so called fertility-neutraceuticals. Clinical research studies have consistently shown that
We have therefore compared the top male fertility combination supplements in a transparent, side-by-side evaluation.
VIDEO: How to improve sperm naturally with food
Male fertility-enhancing micro nutrients
Bibliography
Dr. Kooner is Deputy Director of The Advanced Fertility Center of Chicago and has been a Specialist in Fertility Treatment since 1999.
As well as the areas that the clinic specialises in general, he is particularly interested in managing oocyte donation, female same-sex couples, single women having sperm donation and those considering egg freezing.
Dr. Kooner regularly speaks at fertility meetings. He has published in national journals and constantly contributes to the fertility research and publications from Advanced Fertility Center of Chicago.
References
| ↑1 | “Allen, L. (2009). How common is vitamin B-12 deficiency?. American Society for Nutrition. Volume 89, Issue 2, (pp. 6935-65).” |
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| ↑2 | “Sandler B, Faragher B. (1984). Treatment of oligospermia with vitamin B12. Infertility, Volume 7:133–8.” |
| ↑3 | ”https://humupd.oxfordjournals.org/content/14/3/243.full” |
| ↑4 | ”Imhof, Martin et al., “Improvement of sperm quality after micronutritient supplementation” |
I have to say that as a consumer trying to educate myself, because I believe what I see but it would’nt be a bad idea to go for B12. One of the biggest concern is qualified staff, availability and an assessment.
My best:)
Nutri Lounge