The Best Fertility Supplements for Men, Backed by Science

Written By The Mr. Fertyl Research & Education Team

Key Supplements and Nutrients

Many male fertility supplements contain antioxidants and vitamins that support sperm health. Reviews note that ingredients like zinc, selenium, folate, carnitines, CoQ10, and vitamins C/E frequently appear in these products [3][7]. In practice, however, effectiveness can vary. For example, a large NIH trial found that daily zinc (30 mg) plus folic acid (5 mg) did not improve pregnancy rates or sperm parameters in infertile couples [1]. In fact, men taking these supplements had slightly higher sperm DNA fragmentation than placebo. Nonetheless, nutrients like folate remain important: a systematic review found that higher paternal folate status was linked to better sperm quality and fertility [8] (though 5 mg folic acid showed only a modest rise in sperm count in trials [8]).

  • Coenzyme Q10: A powerful antioxidant in mitochondria. Recent meta-analyses show CoQ10 significantly boosts sperm quality. For instance, a 2025 pooled analysis concluded that CoQ10 (typically 100–300 mg/day) increased total sperm count, motility, and normal morphology [2]. Another review ranked CoQ10 highly among antioxidants for improving motility and concentration [4]. CoQ10 is thought to protect sperm from oxidative damage and support energy production, making it a well-supported choice.
  • L-Carnitine: An amino acid derivative that helps sperm motility. A 2022 network meta-analysis found L-carnitine (1–3 g/day) was the most effective supplement for improving sperm motility and morphology among antioxidants [4]. Many studies report that infertile men taking L-carnitine show higher motility and count. Its role in cellular energy and antioxidant protection likely explains these benefits. Doses of 1–2 g/day (often combined with acetyl-L-carnitine) are commonly used in trials.
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Critical components of sperm cell membranes. In the same 2022 analysis, omega-3 supplements (fish oil or algal DHA) ranked first for increasing sperm concentration [4]. Omega-3s also reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which can help sperm function. Many experts recommend 1–2 grams of EPA/DHA daily for men trying to conceive. While omega-3s alone won’t “cure” infertility, studies suggest a beneficial effect on semen quality compared to no supplementation [4].
  • Vitamins C and E: Classic antioxidants. A 2023 systematic review found that vitamins C and E (often combined with other nutrients) generally improved semen parameters and assisted reproduction outcomes [7]. Vitamin C (200–500 mg daily) helps regenerate vitamin E and scavenges free radicals in semen, while vitamin E (200–400 IU) protects sperm membranes. These vitamins have been shown to reduce sperm DNA damage and improve motility, especially when oxidative stress is high [7]. They are widely used in fertility studies for their safety and antioxidant effects.
  • Vitamin D: A hormone-like vitamin important for many tissues. Most clinical data suggest adequate vitamin D is linked to better sperm motility and pregnancy outcomes. A 2020 review notes that men with normal vitamin D levels tend to have higher sperm motility and better fertility [9]. Small trials of vitamin D₃ supplementation (e.g. 1,000–2,000 IU daily) have reported improvements in motility and testosterone in vitamin-D-deficient men. Although evidence is still mixed, many experts advise repleting vitamin D in men with low levels as part of a fertility regimen [9].
  • Selenium: An essential trace mineral needed for sperm development. Randomized trials show selenium (often 100–200 µg/day) can improve semen quality. For example, infertile men given selenium (with vitamin E or NAC) saw significant rises in sperm count, motility and normal forms [7]. One study of selenium plus N-acetylcysteine reported higher testosterone and inhibin B, along with better overall sperm parameters [7]. Selenium works as part of antioxidant enzymes (like glutathione peroxidase), protecting sperm from oxidative damage. Supplementation at recommended doses appears safe and beneficial for many men.
  • Other Antioxidants: Many supplements also include compounds like N-acetylcysteine (NAC), lycopene, and amino acids (arginine, etc.). A broad review listed NAC, lycopene, zinc, folate, CoQ10, carnitines, and vitamins C/E as beneficial for sperm parameters [7]. For instance, lycopene (from tomatoes) has some data showing it can improve sperm motility. However, many commercial formulas pack in dozens of ingredients at low doses. A critical analysis found that most fertility supplements include substances (e.g. taurine, tribulus, B-vitamins) at unproven doses [10]. In short, while key nutrients above have evidence of benefit, buyers should avoid “mega-supplements” containing many unstudied additives or excessively high doses.
Flat lay of non-toxic bamboo men’s underwear in black and beige, fertility-safe and breathable.

Fertility Starts With Small Choices.

Shop Mr. Fertyl Underwear

Lifestyle & Other Tips

Healthy habits are as important as supplements. For example, quitting smoking and excess alcohol can substantially improve sperm quality. Cigarette smoke generates oxidative stress that harms sperm viability and DNA [11], so men who smoke often have poorer semen parameters. Likewise, achieving a healthy weight and eating a balanced diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and lean proteins) is linked to better sperm counts [5][11]. Regular moderate exercise also helps by improving hormone levels and reducing oxidative stress. In short, diet, exercise and lifestyle changes can raise sperm quality [5][11].

Clothing matters: Wear loose-fitting, breathable fabrics. Tight underwear or hot, synthetic garments can raise testicular temperature, which hurts sperm production. One study found men wearing tight briefs had slightly lower sperm counts than those in boxers [12]. In a classic experiment, dogs wearing polyester underpants for 2 years showed a dramatic drop in sperm count and motility (cotton underpants had no effect) [6]. Similarly, choosing natural fibers (like cotton or bamboo) over synthetic materials may reduce exposure to potential chemicals and static that could impair spermatogenesis.

Flat lay of non-toxic bamboo men’s underwear in black and beige, fertility-safe and breathable.

Protect Your Sperm Quality

Get Fertilitywear™ Today

Debunking Common Myths

  • Myth: Testosterone boosters will help fertility. Fact: Taking testosterone or anabolic steroids actually suppresses sperm production. Testosterone injections or “T-boosters” can shut down the body’s own sperm-making process, often driving counts to zero [5]. Any supplements claiming to raise testosterone should be used only under medical supervision, as unsupervised use can harm fertility.
  • Myth: More supplements = better fertility. Fact: Higher doses aren’t always better. In fact, excessive vitamins can be harmful (e.g. high-dose vitamin A or E can cause side effects). A rigorous NIH trial showed that simply adding zinc and folic acid did not boost fertility outcomes [1]. Careful use of evidence-backed nutrients is smarter than megadosing. Always stick to recommended intakes unless supervised by a doctor.
  • Myth: Fertility is only a woman’s problem. Fact: Male factors contribute to about half of infertility cases. It’s important for men to address their own health. Optimizing diet, exercise, and avoiding toxins (like cigarette smoke or excessive heat) are critical. As one fertility expert notes, lifestyle changes can improve sperm counts [5].
  • Myth: Underwear choice doesn’t matter. Fact: Tight, warm clothing can impair sperm. Keeping the testes cool and unrestrained helps maximize sperm production. Studies show even subtle differences (briefs vs. boxers) affect sperm counts [12], and that synthetic fabrics can be worse than cotton [6]. Opt for loose, natural fabrics to support healthy spermatogenesis.

  1. National Institutes of Health. (2020, January 7). Zinc, folic acid supplement does not improve male fertility, NIH study suggests. Source.
  2. Akhigbe, T., Fidelis, A., Adekunle, A., Ashonibare, T., Akorede, A., Shuaibu, A., Hassan, A., Adegbola, A., Ashonibare, A., Oladapo, A., Adeogun, A., Bamidele, A., Oyedokun, A., Mukolokota, O., Kukoyi, O., Oladipo, O., Adelowo, A., Akangbe, A., Hughes, S., Ricken, A., Culty, M., Avellar, M. C. W., & Akhigbe, A. (2025). Does coenzyme Q10 improve semen quality and circulating testosterone level? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 15, 1497930. Source.
  3. Dimitriadis, F., Borgmann, H., Struck, J. P., Salem, J., & Kuru, T. H. (2023). Antioxidant supplementation on male fertility-A systematic review. Antioxidants, 12(4), 836. Source.
  4. Li, K.-p., Yang, X.-s., & Wu, T. (2022). The effect of antioxidants on sperm quality parameters and pregnancy rates for idiopathic male infertility: A network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Frontiers in Endocrinology, 13, 810242. Source.
  5. Hackensack Meridian Health. (2021, February 17). 5 male infertility myths demystified. Source.
  6. Shafik, A. (1993). Effect of different types of textile fabric on spermatogenesis: An experimental study. Urological Research, 21(5), 367–370. Source.
  7. Dimitriadis, F., Borgmann, H., Struck, J. P., Salem, J., & Kuru, T. H. (2023). Antioxidant supplementation on male fertility-A systematic review. Antioxidants, 12(4), 836. Source.
  8. Hoek, J., Steegers-Theunissen, R. P. M., Willemsen, S. P., & Schoenmakers, S. (2020). Paternal folate status and sperm quality, pregnancy outcomes, and epigenetics: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Molecular Nutrition & Food Research, 64(9), e1900696. Source.
  9. Cito, G., Cocci, A., Micelli, E., Gabutti, A., Russo, G. I., Coccia, M. E., Franco, G., Serni, S., Carini, M., & Natali, A. (2020). Vitamin D and male fertility: An updated review. World Journal of Men's Health, 38(2), 164–177. Source.
  10. Garolla, A., Petre, G. C., Francini-Pesenti, F., De Toni, L., Vitagliano, A., Di Nisio, A., & Foresta, C. (2020). Dietary supplements for male infertility: A critical evaluation of their composition. Nutrients, 12(5), 1472. Source.
  11. Harlev, A., Agarwal, A., Gunes, S. O., Shetty, A., & du Plessis, S. S. (2015). Smoking and male infertility: An evidence-based review. The World Journal of Men's Health, 33(3), 143–160. Source.
  12. Chisholm, P. (2018, August 8). Boxers or briefs? Experts disagree over tight underwear's effect on male fertility. NPR News. Source.