Vitamins and microelements that affect the condition of the male reproductive system

Comprehensive analysis to determine the content in the body vitamins (A, C, B9, B12) and microelements  (Se, Zn, Mn, Ni, Cr, Fe, Co), is carried out with the aim of assessing their balance and bringing it, if necessary, to the recommended values.

Male reproductive systemis represented by a set of organs that perform reproductive functions and provide the possibility of sexual reproduction. Being in close relationship with other systems and organs, the male reproductive system is important for the full, uninterrupted functioning of the entire body. The normal functioning of the reproductive system is possible only with the beneficial influence of certain vitamins and microelements on it.

For the correct, harmonious functioning of the male reproductive system, a certain set of the most important microelements and vitamins is necessary. Not only a deficiency, but also an excess of nutrients have a negative impact on the activities of the reproductive system. Moreover, in the latter case, the effect of vitamins and microelements is similar to the effect of toxic substances.

The importance of microelements for the state of the male reproductive system

1. Selenium. It is a powerful antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals, which have a negative effect on the process of sperm production. The trace element protects sperm from damage and destruction, has a beneficial effect on sperm quality, ensures normal spermatogenesis and increases the volume of ejaculate. Selenium also prolongs reproductive age, increases libido, and helps normalize blood circulation in the male genitals.
2. Manganese. Manganese affects sperm activity and is necessary for egg fertilization. The microelement takes part in the body's metabolic processes and in the production of hemoglobin. It ensures better absorption of vitamins, including vitamin C and B vitamins, which are important for the male reproductive system.
3. Nickel and chromium. The concentration of these microelements in the body is extremely low, but in their absence, the normal functioning of the male reproductive system is impossible. Nickel and chromium are involved in the formation of sperm, are necessary to maintain the structure of DNA and RNA and provide their protection from adverse effects, which is key to the preservation of genetic information and its transmission.
4. Zinc. Takes part in the processes of synthesis of male sex hormones, improves the quality characteristics of sperm, and has a beneficial effect on sperm motility. Prevents erectile dysfunction and prevents the development of inflammation in the prostate.
5. Iron. The main purpose of the microelement is associated with its inclusion in the composition of red blood cells and hemoglobin. Iron is necessary to supply oxygen to all organs and tissues, including cells of the reproductive system.
6. Cobalt.It is an integral component of DNA synthesis, participates in the process of hematopoiesis, and increases the absorption of iron.

The importance of vitamins for the condition of the male reproductive system  

1. Vitamin A. Ensures the normal course of testosterone synthesis, helps maintain potency, and has a beneficial effect on the production of seminal fluid. Vitamin A, thanks to its inherent antioxidant effect, ensures the regeneration of cells of the male reproductive system, reliably protects them from the effects of toxic components and the development of inflammatory processes.
2. Vitamin Ctakes part in the process of testosterone production, has a beneficial effect on the synthesis of dopamine, on which libido depends. It improves blood circulation, increases the degree of elasticity of the walls of blood vessels, and therefore acts as an effective means of preventing prostatitis.
3. Vitamin B 9. Has a positive effect on the reproductive abilities of men. The vitamin is necessary for potency, participates in the process of sperm production, improves the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of seminal fluid, and helps reduce the number of sperm with genetic mutations. Reduces the likelihood of developing male infertility and the birth of babies with severe genetic pathologies.
4. Vitamin B 12. It is an indispensable participant in the process of hematopoiesis. Improves the quality of ejaculate and its quantity, increases sexual desire. Essential for the formation of healthy DNA. Vitamin B12 acts as an effective remedy for the prevention and treatment of erectile dysfunction or impotence.

When is a test for vitamins and microelements prescribed?

Comprehensive analysis of the main microelements and vitamins necessary for the normal functioning of the male reproductive systemprescribe:

• when planning pregnancy;
• when conducting a preventive examination of a man;
• if the patient has complaints about the functioning of the reproductive system, including male infertility, the etiology of which has not been established;
• examination of men who have a high probability of deficiency of microcomponents and vitamins (subject to vegan diets, the presence of concomitant diseases and bad habits, when diagnosing pathologies that occur with blood loss.

Recommendations for preparing for the study

Venous blood is used as a biological material for testing. The recommended time for taking the test is morning, from 8 to 11 am. Blood sampling should be done on an empty stomach; on the day of the procedure, it is prohibited, along with eating, drinking any drinks, with the exception of ordinary still drinking water.  

For the reliability of the research resultsStrict adherence to a number of recommendations is required:

• during the day preceding testing, the diet should be free of fried and fatty foods, since if fatty particles penetrate the bloodstream, the blood will be unsuitable for diagnostic purposes;
• the day before blood sampling, it is necessary to exclude high physical activity. Heavy physical labor, sports, and various sports training are strictly prohibited. It is important to avoid emotional shocks, both negative and positive;
• One hour before collecting biological material, you should not smoke.

It is also worth considering that the doctor must be notified of all medications taken before the test begins. The specialist must decide whether it is possible to continue therapy or whether it is necessary to temporarily suspend it.

If the patient undergoes instrumental examinations, such as X-ray examination, fluorography, as well as after undergoing surgical interventions, undergoing a massage session or physiotherapeutic procedures, it is recommended to donate blood to determine the concentration of vitamins and microelements no earlier than after one week.

Research method

A blood test aimed at determining vitamins and microelements that affect the functioning of the male reproductive system is performed in two stages. At the first stage, carried out by liquid chromatography, the components of the sample of seized biological material are separated. At the second stage, called mass spectrometry, the resulting components are analyzed, which is based on measuring the charges and mass of the molecules. This makes it possible to establish their elemental composition and determine the quantitative characteristics of nutrients.

What do the results mean?

The test result has a quantitative format. Individual reference values are provided for all microelements and vitamins to be studied.  

A decrease in performance may be caused by:

• nutritional deficiency of vitamins and microelements in the body;
• intestinal pathologies, a characteristic manifestation of which is a violation of the process of absorption of nutrients and their assimilation by the male body;
• smoking;
• alcoholism.

Increased performanceare caused, in the vast majority of cases, by excessive consumption of microelements and vitamins.  This is often observed when taking vitamin complexes.