Vitamin d male
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The Role of Vitamin D in Male Fertility
Vitamin D Receptors and Male Reproductive System
Vitamin D plays a significant role in the male reproductive system, as evidenced by the presence of vitamin D receptors (VDR) and metabolizing enzymes in the testis and spermatozoa. These receptors and enzymes suggest that vitamin D is involved in various reproductive functions, including hormone production and spermatogenesis1 4 6.
Vitamin D and Semen Quality
Positive Effects on Sperm Motility
Several studies have highlighted a positive correlation between vitamin D levels and semen quality, particularly sperm motility. Observational and interventional studies consistently show that higher vitamin D levels are associated with improved sperm motility in both fertile and infertile men2 3 4 6. This improvement is attributed to the non-genomic actions of vitamin D, which increase intracellular calcium concentration, thereby enhancing sperm motility and capacitation4 6.
Inconclusive Effects on Other Semen Parameters
While the positive impact of vitamin D on sperm motility is well-documented, its effects on other semen parameters such as sperm concentration and morphology remain inconclusive. Some studies report no significant differences in these parameters between men with sufficient and deficient vitamin D levels5 9.
Vitamin D and Hormone Production
Controversial Impact on Testosterone Levels
The relationship between vitamin D and testosterone levels is still debated. Observational studies suggest a correlation between higher vitamin D levels and increased testosterone. However, most randomized clinical trials have not found significant effects of vitamin D supplementation on testosterone levels3 6 8 10. Some studies indicate that vitamin D may influence bioavailable testosterone rather than total testosterone6.
Potential Role in Estrogen Signaling
Vitamin D is also implicated in estrogen signaling, which is crucial for male reproductive health. Functional animal models and cross-sectional studies support the role of vitamin D in enhancing estrogen responsiveness, which may indirectly benefit male fertility4 7.
Vitamin D Deficiency and Pregnancy Outcomes
Vitamin D deficiency in men has been linked to higher rates of pregnancy loss. One study found that men with vitamin D levels below 20 ng/mL had a significantly higher rate of pregnancy loss compared to those with sufficient levels5. This suggests that maintaining adequate vitamin D levels may be important for successful pregnancy outcomes.
Need for Further Research
Despite the promising findings, the current evidence is not sufficient to establish a definitive role for vitamin D supplementation in improving male fertility. The studies reviewed exhibit wide heterogeneity in design, population, and methodology, making it difficult to draw concrete conclusions1 2 3. Future research should focus on well-designed clinical trials to clarify the exact role of vitamin D in male reproductive health.
Conclusion
Vitamin D appears to play a beneficial role in male fertility, particularly in enhancing sperm motility. However, its effects on other semen parameters and hormone levels remain inconclusive. While maintaining adequate vitamin D levels may improve pregnancy outcomes, more research is needed to determine the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation in treating male infertility.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Vitamin D and Male Fertility: An Updated Review
Vitamin D may positively impact male fertility through better sperm motility and better pregnancy outcomes, but more research is needed to clarify its exact role in male reproductive system.
Systematic Review
Very Rigorous JournalVitamin D and Male Reproduction: Updated Evidence Based on Literature Review
Vitamin D supplementation positively affects semen quality and sperm motility in both fertile and infertile men, but its effect on male sex steroid hormone levels remains inconclusive.
Systematic ReviewVery Rigorous JournalThe Association between Vitamin D and the Components of Male Fertility: A Systematic Review
Vitamin D supplementation positively affects sperm motility, but there is no clear evidence to support its use for improving male fertility or hormonal disorders.
Systematic Review
Rigorous JournalVitamin D and male reproduction
Vitamin D signaling positively affects semen quality, increases estrogen responsiveness, and differentiates germ cell tumors in male reproductive function.
Highly CitedMale vitamin D status and male factor infertility.
Vitamin D deficiency in male partners does not significantly impact semen parameters or treatment outcomes in couples with mild male factor infertility.
RCTThe role of vitamin D in male fertility: A focus on the testis
Vitamin D improves semen quality and sperm motility in male fertility, but its effect on testosterone levels remains controversial.
Literature ReviewHighly CitedPossible influence of vitamin D on male reproduction
Vitamin D may play a role in male reproduction, with high serum levels linked to better semen quality and fertility in both fertile and infertile men.
Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation on Testosterone Levels in Men
Vitamin D supplementation may increase testosterone levels in overweight men undergoing a weight reduction program, but no significant change was observed in the placebo group.
RCTHighly CitedEvaluation of the effect of vitamin D supplementation on spermatogram, seminal and serum levels of oxidative stress indices in asthenospermia infertile men: a study protocol for a triple-blind, randomized controlled trial
Vitamin D supplementation may improve oxidative stress status and affect sperm parameters and endocrine factors involved in male fertility in infertile men with insufficient levels or deficiency.
RCTVery Rigorous JournalReviewing the Evidence on Vitamin D Supplementation in the Management of Testosterone Status and Its Effects on Male Reproductive System (Testis and Prostate): Mechanistically Dazzling but Clinically Disappointing.
Vitamin D supplementation may have essential roles in the testis and prostate, but there is no clear evidence to support its use to increase testosterone levels or improve clinical outcomes related to the male reproductive system.
Systematic Review