Zinc levels in seminal plasma and their correlation with male infertility: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Zhao J, Dong X, Hu X, Long Z, Wang L, Liu Q, Sun B, Wang Q, Wu Q, Li L
Published in Scientific Reports
Methodology
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 20 studies (2,600 cases and 867 controls) on seminal plasma zinc and effects of zinc supplementation on sperm parameters
Key Findings
Seminal plasma zinc was significantly lower in infertile than fertile men (SMD -0.64), and zinc supplementation significantly increased semen volume, sperm motility and normal morphology.
Conclusions
Low seminal zinc is associated with male infertility and supplementation may improve sperm quality, though further trials are needed.
Limitations
Mostly small observational and non-blinded supplementation studies with high heterogeneity; surrogate sperm endpoints rather than births.
Supplements Studied
Zinc supplementation was found to significantly increase the semen volume, sperm motility and the percentage of normal sperm morphology.
Outcomes Measured
Zinc supplementation was found to significantly increase the semen volume, sperm motility and the percentage of normal sperm morphology.
Seminal zinc was significantly lower in infertile men and zinc supplementation significantly increased semen volume, motility and normal morphology
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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Disclosures
Funding
Academic/institutional
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.