Carnitine (Tartrate) is important for sperm metabolism, especially in providing energy for sperm cells. This readily available energy source is necessary for sperm motility, maturation and production. Supplementing the body with carnitine has helped to normalize sperm in men with low sperm quality. Although L-carnitine is synthesized in the body, there is evidence that the high concentrations within the reproductive organs appear to be due more to an accumulation mechanism rather than as a result of biosynthesis. There are numerous studies demonstrating the benefits of carnitine for all the recognized sperm parameters, and ultimately for male fertility.

Arginine is an amino acid necessary to maintain normal sperm production because it is a precursor to testosterone, polyamines, and nitric oxide. Arginine is significantly decreased in the seminal plasma of men with low or no sperm in their ejaculate. Research shows that several months of arginine supplementation increases sperm count, motility and also fertility.

Lycopene is a powerful anti-oxidant and a carotenoid found especially in tomatoes, as well as in the male testes. Recently, research at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences demonstrated that after 3 months of lycopene, significant improvement in most men with abnormal sperm parameters of low sperm concentration, motility, and morphology. In addition, lycopene has been shown to be hightly effective in preventing some cancers, especially prostate.

Vitamin C (Calcium Ascorbate) is an anti-oxidant agent that protects the body against many toxic substances, particularly free radicals, and can affect the reproductive process in men. Men taking 1 gram (or 1,000 mg) of vitamin C daily showed significant improvements in sperm density, motility, and structure. In addition, Vitamin C may be important as a reducing substance in the biosynthesis of collagen, steroid and peptide hormones. We have buffered the Vitamin C in REPRODUCTIVE COMPLEX since too much acidity in the semen can have an adverse affect on sperm.

Vitamin E (d-Alpha Tocopherol) is a very powerful anti-oxidant that prevents cell damage, and has the ability to contribute to hormone normalization. Vitamin E is a mild anti-coagulant and improves circulation to the sex organs. Formerly labeled the anti-sterility vitamin, it is crucial to proper reproductive function in both men and women. In fact, the chemical name for vitamin E, "tocopherol" originated from the Greek words tokos, which means "offspring," and phero, which means "to bear." Vitamin E has been shown to improve binding of sperm to the zona pellucida of human oocytes in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study.

Selenium (Selenomethionine) is also a potent anti-oxidant mineral which protects the immune system by preventing the formation of free radicals that can damage the body. Reports indicate a connection between selenium and sperm production. At least half the selenium in the male body is found in the semen. This trace mineral,along with zinc, have been identified as essential for the production of healthy sperm. Recent studies indicate that reduced daily selenium intake may be linked to an increased risk of male infertility.

Zinc (Aspartate) is an essential mineral for prostate gland function and the health of the reproductive system. Seminal plasma, the fluid in which the sperm exist, usually has highest concentration of zinc in the body, and levels are directly related to sperm concentration and motility. The restriction of dietary zinc reduces both sperm count, seminal plasma volume, and results in delayed spermatozoal maturation and impaired motility. Zinc supplementation raises testoterone and also increases fertility, sperm count and motility.



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