It is well-known that male infertility is one of the reasons why couples can't conceive. There are countless studies going on regarding male infertility and till today, results have been inconclusive and there is not yet a CURE existent to treat male infertility. However, several studies have shown certain supplements can help to improve sperm quality and aid fertility chances.
I have done my research and have provided you with top 5 supplements backed by scientific evidence.
1) D-Aspartic Acid(D-AA)
Not to be confused with L-aspartic acid, D-AA is usually present in testes and sperm cells. It has been found that infertile men have lower levels of D-AA[1]. Studies have also shown that by supplementing infertile men with D-AA, testosterone levels increased up to 60%. Sperm count and motility have also been increased by 60-100%. Number of pregnancies have also increased with their partners[2].
Another study shown that just by taking 3 gramms of D-AA each day for 14 days, testosterone levels increased by 42%[3].
However, more studies is needed to investigate its long term side effects and benefits.
Vegan D-Aspartic Acid Supplements
For every serving, there is 3 grams of D-AA, which is well sufficient for your recommended daily dosage. As a dietary supplement, consume 1 scoop, preferably with 8-12 ounces of water (Do not consume with food).
Positive review:
I fully paid for this product and have not received anything for this review.
Mixed very well and tastes great. Only drank it for the first time today so I can’t speak to the effectiveness a whole lot. Although, I do feel a little energy boost that’s hard to explain... almost like a little confidence boost and feel like I’m ready to take on whatever comes at me. Reaminds me of when I first took it a few years back.
Have taken DAA in the past but usually stop because it doesn’t mix will leaving grains that get stuck in my throat. And it’s usually very sour. While this is still a little sour the blue raspberry flavor made it completely barable. ~Joshua Wilson, March 28, 2019
Cons: Might cause diarrhea for some users.
Bad for my stomach, tried for two weeks never got better, loose every day. ~ Ed, October 26, 2015
2) Vitamin D
Vitamin D helps main the health of bones and teeth, as well as other important systems such as cardiac system and immune system. It also has an impact on male infertility.
A controlled study involving 65 men with low levels of testosterone found that they have Vitamin D deficiency as well. Consuming 3000IU of Vitamin D3 each day for a year increased their testosterone levels by 25% [4].
Vegan Vitamin D Supplements
Most Vitamin D3 supplements are made of Lanolin, which is extracted from sheep wool. This D-3 supplement is 100% plant based and are made from wild-harvested lichen. Non GMO. Gluten Free. Does NOT contain Soy, Dairy, Corn, Nuts, Additives, Preservatives, or Coloring. Vegan and Vegetarian. One serving contains 62.5 mcg (2500 IU) of Vitamin D, which is 313% of recommended daily dosage.
Our of 68 reviews, 93% gave 4 or 5 star ratings.
Positive review:
I love these supplements. Vitamin D3 interferes with the production of melatonin (the sleepiness hormone) so make sure to take these in the morning! I love that these are plant-based and they certainly improved my focus and energy! This is exactly what I was missing! ~ Haley February 24, 2019
3) Fenugreek
Trigonella foenum-graecum seeds contain soluble steroidal saponins, specifically furostanol glycosides responsible for complexing cholesterol in the cell membrane [5]. This might boost testosterone levels and help with their androgen deficiency in infertile male.
A double-blind, randomised, placebo controlled trial involving 120 healthy men aged between 43 and 70 years of age was done to examine the possible effects on male infertility using Testosfen(containing Tribulus Terrestris). It was found that this extract of Trigonella foenum-graecum seed was shown to be safe and effective, reducing symptoms of possible androgen deficiency, improving sexual function and increasing serum testosterone in healthy middle-aged and older men[6].
However, more studies have to be done to validate its safety and efficacy.
Vegan Fenugreek Supplements
Fenugreek Gold features certified organic, solvent-free, gently steam-sterilized fenugreek seed powder containing the full-spectrum and goodness of the whole seed encapsulated in certified organic pullulan capsules.
Out of 250 reviews, 73% gave 4 or 5 star ratings.
Positive review: (do take note fenugreek is often taken to boost milk supply. in this article, we use it for men)
I had trouble manufacturing enough food for my son in the early days. I saw several lactation consultants and spent time crying about how sad I was to not be able to provide my son with enough breastmilk. While I never was able to exclusively breastfeed, these pills are the ONLY THING that have made a measurable impact on my breastmilk. The mother's milk tea doesn't do a lot other than be a soothing cup of tea and I think it gives my son and I some gas. I tried another brand of fenugreek and it just did not provide the boost that Fenugreek Gold did and it had more of a fenugreek odor. I forgot to order a bottle soon enough once and without Fenugreek Gold, my son and I could both tell that my supply dropped off. I will continue to order this as long as I'm breastfeeding. I would absolutely without a doubt recommend it to any moms that are struggling with their milk supply. I know what it's like to be desperate to try anything just to fill up the tummy or tummies of your little bundle or bundles of joy.
I do wonder if it is making me a little more odoriferous in the armpit area, but I put up with it because the benefits far outweigh this potential drawback. I just switched deodorant. As for my prediabetes, my numbers are good (5.8 A1C last time, which could be worse but could be slightly better) when I eat right, so I'm not sure how much this helps. I guess I'll have to see what happens once I stop breastfeeding. I wouldn't be sad if I had to keep taking this for my overall health because it's a quality product. ~DS
Cons: Might be difficult to swallow
Im so glad i found these vegetarian pills. They are great for women who are breastfeeding and need to boost their supply. But you must take it religiously until your supply goes up. It can take a few days. Also you need to drink a lot of water. Believe it or not but lack of water intake can dry you up. You need fluid to make fluid. The only reason why im giving this a 4 star and not 5 is because sometimes, and i mean sometimes, they are hard to swallow. They've gotten stuck in my throat a few times. Wish they were a bit smaller. So if you're like me, take these with thick liquids like naked. Or if it gets stuck just eat a banana and it will go down. Works every time. ~Samjo
4) Tribulus Terrestris
Studies have suggested that Tribulus Terrestris can increase testosterone levels by increasing the luteinizing hormone and the gonadotropin-releasing hormone.
A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study was designed with men between the age of 21 and 50 years, diagnosed with oligozoospermia, receiving either Gokshura granules(Tribulus Terrestris) or placebo granules for 60 days. Results concluded that Gokshura granules significantly improved semen quality as compared to placebo granules. Although promising, more clinical studies have to be done as well[7].
Vegan Tribulus Terrestris Supplements
Out of 12 reviews, 92% gave 4 or 5 star ratings.
Positive review: The dosage size is ideal for an average size male. No artificial binders. Made in the USA. Price is very good... ~Roger P Durand
5) Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) has been used in traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine as an aphrodisiac that can be used to treat male sexual dysfunction and infertility
In a randomized placebo-controlled study, taking 675mg of Ashwagandha thrice a day, for 90 days, increased sperm counts by 167%, semen volume by 53% and sperm motility by 57%[8]. Another study was done and results supported the previous study mentioned[9].
Vegan Ashwagandha Supplements
Each capsule contains the equivalent of 2,700 mg dry ashwagandha herb
Out of 358 reviews, 83% gave 4 or 5 star ratings.
Some of the reviews:
I have bought so many supplements to help deal with my hypervigilance and nothing has helped me as much as ashwagandha has. Social situations are extremely painful for me because I feel like I am in a constant state of fight or flight. This herb has taken away a majority of these feelings after a couple days of taking it. I just cant believe that I have found something that finally helps, I am blown away. Now when I am in social situations, my heart doesn't race, and I don't feel scared or like running away. I'm just chill and relaxed. ~Ashley Maria
I am 72 years old and have had a lifetime of clinical depression-anger problems, under good control, but sometimes things go a bit awry. I started taking this because it was prescribed by a psychiatrist for a foster child who had PTSD from years of trauma, and I decided to try it myself.
The ashwaghanda, while not Fairy Godmother magical, is so effective that I intend never to be without my 2-a-day. It settles things nicely, and leeps me from reacting with anxiety or negativity to the many trial and surprises that life can bring. I heartily recommend this for anyone looking for a gentle smile-maker. ~Dancing Bones
6) Maca Root
Maca was once touted worldwide as an alimentary supplement to enhance fertility and restore hormonal balance.
A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled pilot trial involving 20 volunteers aged 20–40 years was supplied with either maca or placebo (1.75 g/day) for 12 weeks. Results showed that maca increased sperm counts and motility better than placebo, with no improvement in hormonal levels though. Results have been peer-reviewed, but authors noted that more research is needed before definite conclusions can be made[10].
Vegan Maca Root Supplements
Contains 100% Freshly Harvested Peruvian Raw Red Maca Powder in Vegan Capsule
Out of 156 reviews, 78% gave 4 or 5 star ratings.
Some of the reviews:
This is a great, trustworthy product. I've tried maca from other sources before, but with the Maca Team I know what 'm getting is good quality. I have consistently seem great result with maca for my hormonal balance, especially pertaining to PMS and duration and strength of menses. My cycle is now a very stable 27 days. I'm down to having little to no mood swings and minimal cramping for a day, followed by a 4-day moderate-light period. Pretty awesome for me! Plus, glad to be rid of the artificial hormones I've been dousing myself with for 15 years! ~queensmom
I ordered the red Maca after studying Maca and learned that this is truly the best out there. I am 68 and have started with only one a day now for 5 days and will up to two a day, after a week, and possibly more. What is truly amazing is that I already feel different and much more like my old self. It seems that more of my energizer bunny energy is returning. Some may say it's a placebo effect but I don't think so. I would highly recommend this product. Do not be fooled by cheap imitations, or lab created product. Buy this product from The Maca Team and you will be impressed. I sure am! Thanks Maca team for your GREAT product but most of all the information to make an informed and intelligent decision. ~John Lisicich
7) Zinc
Zinc is a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mineral that plays a vital role in prostate health, immune system support, energy increase, hormone balancing and cardiovascular health.
Poor Zn nutrition is well known to cause low quality of sperm and idiopathic male infertility[11].
The effects of zinc therapy on plasma testosterone (T), dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and sperm count were observed in 37 patients with idiopathic infertility of more than five years duration.
It was found that T and DHT rose significantly after oral administration of zinc, as did the sperm count. Nine wives became pregnant, six within 3 months and three within 2 months of a second trial[12].
Vegan Zinc Supplements
Contains 30mg RAW WHOLE FOOD Zinc (200% DV) and RAW Vitamin C (100% DV) for HIGH POTENCY, MAXIMUM ABSORPTION.
With Peak Performance Raw Organic Zinc, you’ll get a powerful combination of zinc derived from real whole foods, with an organic fruit blend, organic vegetable blend, and organic whole food vitamin C.
Ingredients include: Zinc, Vitamin C, Organic Fruit and Vegetable Blend: Organic Alfalfa Juice, Organic Barley Grass, Organic Oat Grass, Organic Wheatgrass, Organic Chlorella, Organic Spirulina, Organic Broccoli, Organic Cabbage, Organic Kale, Organic Parsley, Organic Sea Kelp, Organic Broccoli Sprout, Organic Dandelion, Organic Dulse, Organic Pomegranate, Organic Acai, Organic Acerola Cherry Extract, Organic Black Currant, Organic Blackberry, Organic Blueberry Extract, Organic Cranberry, Organic Grape, Organic Goji Berry, Organic Maqui Berry and Organic Raspberry
Out of 61 reviews, 95% gave 4 or 5 star ratings.
Some of the reviews:
I am an avid hiker, so I do take supplements to help replace vitamins & minerals lost when I am on the trail (I tend to eat quick and easy which doesn't always mean healthy). This is the first Zinc supplement that I have ever taken and after a lot of research chose this brand due to it being RAW and organic. I love that it boosts the immune system since I am outside a lot and we are in the middle of flu season. However, the biggest benefit I have noticed is an increase in energy. ~Bridget * NuttyHiker
Excellent, I have lots of energy and I'm feeling better! ~BC
Bottom Line
Diagnosis on sperm quality has to be made first before starting with the above supplements. More is not necessary good, and you have to consult your doctor if you are taking these supplements.
[1] D'Aniello G, Ronsini S, Guida F, Spinelli P, D'Aniello A.Occurrence of D-aspartic acid in human seminal plasma and spermatozoa: possible role in reproduction. Fertil Steril. 2005 Nov;84(5):1444-9.
[2] Gemma D’Aniello, Salvatore Ronsini, Tiziana Notari, Natascia Grieco. D-Aspartate, a Key Element for the Improvement of Sperm Quality. ASM Vol.2 No.4, October 2012
[3] Topo E, Soricelli A, D'Aniello A, Ronsini S, D'Aniello G. The role and molecular mechanism of D-aspartic acid in the release and synthesis of LH and testosterone in humans and rats. Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 2009 Oct 27;7:120. doi: 10.1186/1477-7827-7-120.
[4] Pilz S, Frisch S, Koertke H, Kuhn J, Dreier J, Obermayer-Pietsch B, Wehr E, Zittermann A. Effect of vitamin D supplementation on testosterone levels in men. Horm Metab Res. 2011 Mar;43(3):223-5. doi: 10.1055/s-0030-1269854. Epub 2010 Dec 10.
[5] Price KR, Johnson IT, Fenwick GR. The chemistry and biological significance of saponins in foods and feedingstuffs. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 1987;26:27–135.
[6] Amanda Rao, Elizabeth Steels, Warrick J. Inder, Suzanne Abraham & Luis Vitetta (2016): Testofen, a specialised Trigonella foenum-graecum seed extract reduces agerelated symptoms of androgen decrease, increases testosterone levels and improves sexual function in healthy aging males in a double-blind randomised clinical study, The Aging Male, DOI: 10.3109/13685538.2015.1135323
[7] Sellandi TM, Thakar AB, Baghel MS.Clinical study of Tribulus terrestris Linn. in Oligozoospermia: A double blind study.Ayu. 2012 Jul;33(3):356-64. doi: 10.4103/0974-8520.108822.
[8] Ambiye, V. R., Langade, D., Dongre, S., Aptikar, P., Kulkarni, M., & Dongre, A. (2013). Clinical Evaluation of the Spermatogenic Activity of the Root Extract of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in Oligospermic Males: A Pilot Study. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2013, 1–6.doi:10.1155/2013/571420
[9] Wankhede, S., Langade, D., Joshi, K., Sinha, S. R., & Bhattacharyya, S. (2015). Examining the effect of Withania somnifera supplementation on muscle strength and recovery: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 12(1). doi:10.1186/s12970-015-0104-9Â
[10] Shin, B.-C., Lee, M. S., Yang, E. J., Lim, H.-S., & Ernst, E. (2010). Maca (L. meyenii) for improving sexual function: a systematic review. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 10(1). doi:10.1186/1472-6882-10-44Â
[11] Colagar AH, Marzony ET, Chaichi MJ. Zinc levels in seminal plasma are associated with sperm quality in fertile and infertile men. Nutr Res. 2009;29(2):82–8
[12] Netter A, Hartoma R, Nahoul K. Effect of zinc administration on plasma testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, and sperm count. Arch Androl. 1981 Aug;7(1):69-73.