Omega 3 Fatty Acids May Improve Male Infertility
Michael Byrd
April 27, 2010
Men with fertility problems may need to up their daily omega 3 intake, according to a new study by researchers at the University of Illinois. The findings, released on April 20, 2010, indicate that omega 3 fatty acids can actually help resolve infertility issues related to genetic makeup.
Mice who were infertile due to a missing gene were found to be completely absent the enzyme docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an enzyme that is one of the most critical parts of the omega 3 fatty acid nutritional benefits. Prior to treatment, the mice´s sperm were round rather than the normal, elongated shape. As a result, they were not able to move effectively and could not, in nearly all cases, achieve fertilization of an egg.
When the researchers supplemented the mice´s diet with omega 3 fatty acids fish oil, which are rich in DHA, their fertility was completely restored. Sperm from the mice examined after the treatment were discovered to be elongated and to move well, just as any other normal mouse´s sperm would do.
While this research is still in early stages and has not been applied directly to humans, if you or someone you love is experiencing problems with infertility, it may behoove you to consult your doctor about the viability of adding omega 3 fatty acids, usually in the form of omega 3 rich salmon oil, to your daily vitamin and supplement routine in case your infertility stems from a genetic issue or a DHA deficiency.
Mice who were infertile due to a missing gene were found to be completely absent the enzyme docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an enzyme that is one of the most critical parts of the omega 3 fatty acid nutritional benefits. Prior to treatment, the mice´s sperm were round rather than the normal, elongated shape. As a result, they were not able to move effectively and could not, in nearly all cases, achieve fertilization of an egg.
When the researchers supplemented the mice´s diet with omega 3 fatty acids fish oil, which are rich in DHA, their fertility was completely restored. Sperm from the mice examined after the treatment were discovered to be elongated and to move well, just as any other normal mouse´s sperm would do.
While this research is still in early stages and has not been applied directly to humans, if you or someone you love is experiencing problems with infertility, it may behoove you to consult your doctor about the viability of adding omega 3 fatty acids, usually in the form of omega 3 rich salmon oil, to your daily vitamin and supplement routine in case your infertility stems from a genetic issue or a DHA deficiency.
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