Diet is one of the key factors in embryo and foetus development. A deficient diet produces adverse effects both in natural and assisted reproduction. Although there are studies in animal research, the results in human populations are scarce and sometimes contradictory, so, we will discuss further the impact of the most important preparations.
Folates are useful in DNA synthesis and reparation and are found in legumes, vegetables, fruit, liver and bread. Folate deficit leads to neural tube defects in the foetus. It can inhibit ovulation and alter spermatozoid formation in the reproductive aspect.
Vitamin B6 intervenes in nucleic acid production for genes and the integrity of blood vessels. This vitamin is found in animal-based products, cereal and vegetables. Its deficit can lead to thrombosis and abortions.
Iron has a significant role in neurological development. It appears in cereal, meat, fish, bread and vegetables. Iron deficiency causes anaemia and can alter ovulation.
Vitamin E or tocopherol helps form the cell membranes. At the reproductive level, it impacts sperm quality and endometrial thickness.
Vitamin C or ascorbic acid favours the synthesis of collagen, carnitine and catecholamines. Vitamin C is obtained from fruits and vegetables. From reproductive aspect, its lack can produce a deficient luteal phase, harm the DNA of spermatozoids and cause male sterility.
Zinc stimulates the synthesis of nucleic acids and cellular membranes, can also work as antibacterial. Zinc is also important in differentiation of gonad and production of oestrogens in testicles. Appears in low quantities in fish, more can be found in meats, cereals, legumes and nuts. It can affect the development of foetus by causing hypothyroidism, reduce testicle development and in adults reduce the sperm quality.
Selenium is potent antioxidant and is a key material in gonad formation, spermatozoid production and their mobility. This element is found in fish, meats, and eggs. Its deficit can lead to lower number and mobility of spermatozoids and increase abnormal forms.
Ingesting an adequate quantity of micronutrients helps to avoid congenital defects and malformations of a newborn.
Although the benefits of supplements of these vitamins and minerals is not completely resolved in the reproductive aspect, it is true that different researchers prove the benefits of vitamin C, selenium and zinc in improving the sperm quality due to their antioxidant capacities.
Gregorio Manzanera
IMAGE: https://www.salud.mapfre.es/nutricion/enfermedades-nutricion/vitaminas-minerales-y-fitonutrientes-en-enfermedades-cardiovasculares/
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