Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B9 (methyltetrahydrofolate)
For the body system: Male Reproductive System

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Synopsis

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

Vitamin B9, particularly in its active form as methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF), has scientific backing for its role in supporting male reproductive health, though the evidence is moderate rather than definitive. Folate is crucial for DNA synthesis, repair, and methylation, processes essential for spermatogenesis (the production of sperm). Several studies have demonstrated that adequate folate levels are associated with improved sperm quality parameters, such as concentration, motility, and DNA integrity. For example, a 2017 review in Andrology summarized that men with higher folate intake or blood levels tend to have better semen parameters. Furthermore, randomized controlled trials have shown that folate supplementation, sometimes in combination with zinc, can modestly increase sperm count and quality in subfertile men, although not all studies have found significant improvements in fertility outcomes (like pregnancy rates).

Methyltetrahydrofolate is the bioactive form of folate and is especially important for individuals with genetic polymorphisms (e.g., MTHFR mutations) that reduce their ability to convert folic acid to active folate. While 5-MTHF is not always studied specifically, it is presumed to have similar or better efficacy compared to folic acid. Overall, the evidence supports a role for Vitamin B9 in supporting male reproductive health, particularly in the context of optimizing sperm health, but more research is needed to determine its direct impact on male fertility.

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