Folic acid is not only beneficial for women but also for men, including those planning a pregnancy.
One of the nutrients that plays an important role in overall health and fertility is folic acid. Many married couples consume folic acid in specific amounts to prepare their bodies when planning for pregnancy.
While many people believe that folic acid, or vitamin B9, is only intended for women, it can also be consumed by men. Folic acid has several important roles in maintaining sperm health.
Benefits of Folic Acid for Men
Folic acid is known to improve both reproductive health and fertility in men. Below are several benefits of folic acid for men.
1. Maintaining Sperm Cell Health
One of the roles of folic acid in male fertility is maintaining the quality and health of sperm cells produced. Sperm quality is assessed based on sperm count, shape (morphology), and movement (motility).
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According to a study published in the journal Urology, researchers compared the effects of folic acid, vitamin E, and selenium supplementation with a placebo in 64 men experiencing fertility problems.
After six months of observation, the researchers found that men who consumed the supplements had more motile sperm compared with those who received the placebo. In addition, low levels of folic acid were also associated with reduced sperm quality.
2. Reducing the Risk of Abnormal Sperm Cells
Another benefit of folic acid for male fertility is reducing the risk of producing abnormal sperm cells. Abnormal sperm production may lead to aneuploidy, a condition in which cells have an abnormal number of chromosomes, either more or fewer than normal.
Chromosomal abnormalities can result in congenital disorders in offspring, such as Down syndrome, Turner syndrome, and triple X syndrome.
A study published in the Journal of Experimental and Clinical Assisted Reproduction reported that among 89 men who consumed 772 micrograms and 1,150 micrograms of folic acid, the risk of abnormal sperm decreased by approximately 20–30 percent. These findings suggest that folic acid supplementation in men may help prevent abnormal sperm production.
Read also: 5 Benefits of Folic Acid for Pregnancy Programs You Should Know!
3. Helping to Manage Erectile Dysfunction
One of the causes of male infertility is erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction prevents men from achieving or maintaining an erection during sexual intercourse.
According to a study published in the journal Andrology, folic acid supplementation may help manage erectile dysfunction. The researchers also found that daily folic acid supplementation for three months reduced the severity of erectile dysfunction from severe to mild or moderate.
Now, fathers understand the importance of folic acid in supporting male fertility. This nutrient can be found in vegetables, legumes, and dietary supplements. Folic acid can be consumed while preparing for or actively participating in a pregnancy program with a partner.
