Evidence supporting the use of: Folic Acid
For the body system: Male Reproductive System

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Folic acid, a synthetic form of the B-vitamin folate, has scientific support for its use in supporting aspects of the male reproductive system, particularly male fertility. Research indicates that folic acid plays a role in DNA synthesis, cell division, and the overall health of sperm. Several studies have found associations between adequate folate status and improved sperm quality, including concentration, motility, and reduced sperm DNA damage. For example, a randomized controlled trial published in Fertility & Sterility (2002) showed that supplementation with folic acid (combined with zinc) significantly increased sperm count in subfertile men. Additionally, a 2017 systematic review in Andrology concluded that folate supplementation may improve certain sperm parameters, especially in men with subfertility issues. However, the magnitude of benefit appears modest, and not all studies have found significant improvements in fertility outcomes such as pregnancy rates. Still, the biological plausibility is strong due to folic acid's critical role in nucleotide metabolism and methylation processes necessary for spermatogenesis. There is no substantial traditional use of folic acid for male reproductive health, as this knowledge comes from more recent scientific investigations. Thus, while folic acid is not a guaranteed or primary treatment for male infertility, there is moderate scientific evidence supporting its role in supporting male reproductive health, mainly in men with suboptimal folate levels or fertility challenges.

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