Ask the expert

Are there nutrients or herbs that one can take to improve sperm motility? Are there any lifestyle factors that can also do this?

Among the many nutrients and herbsrecommended for improving sperm motility - the sperm's ability to move - the best evidence seems to be for the amino acids L-carnitine, L-acetyl-carnitine, or a combination of these.

In studies conducted, L-carnitine taken orally at a dose of 2g per day, with or without L-acetyl-carnitine at 1g a day, was effective in increasing semen motility, especially in men with poorer 'swimmers'.

These proteins are highly concentrated in the epididymis, a structure in the scrotum, and play a crucial role in sperm metabolism and maturation.

Lifestyle factors associated with a negative impact on sperm function include:

tight clothing, including underwear;

too many hot baths;

smoking;

using drugs;

excessive alcohol use;

stress; and

work hazards, including exposure to heavy metals, solvents and X-rays.

Although the evidence for these associations is not robust, it may be prudent to avoid these factors if sperm motility is a concern.

Question sent in by reader Caren Wong.

Answer provided by Dr Chong Yap Seng, senior consultant, department of obstetrics & gynaecology, National University Hospital & National University of Singapore.

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