The nutrient known as Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, transports electrons within the mitochondria, the cell’s “power plant,” making it essential for energy production and biochemical reactions. But CoQ10 is also a powerful antioxidant, a nutrient that protects against cellular damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals. And this antioxidative benefit may make CoQ10 an effective nutrient for male and female fertility, including that for improving sperm and egg quality and health.
What Is CoQ10?
CoQ10 is a substance naturally made by the human body, and while found in almost all cells, it’s mostly concentrated in the mitochondria. CoQ10 is also a potent antioxidant, with anti-inflammatory benefits. While found in such foods as oily fish, eggs, nuts, and whole grains, you can also consume CoQ10 supplements. It’s the only fat-soluble one produced by your body, meaning it is better absorbed when consumed in a meal with oil or fat.
How Does CoQ10 Benefit Fertility?
CoQ10 supplementation may improve male and female fertility, including egg quality, sperm quality, and pregnancy rates. Because it can help those who are trying to conceive, many fertility experts consider it an important component of any fertility treatment plan. For the best results, it is typically recommended that CoQ10 supplements be taken for at least 90 days.
CoQ10 and Male Fertility
This nutrient’s antioxidative and energy-generating benefits play large roles in its effectiveness for male fertility. Research suggests that among infertile men, between 30 and 80 percent have high amounts of free radicals in their semen. These free radicals attack the membrane surrounding sperm and damage their DNA, leading to genetic errors. But CoQ10 helps protect cells against free radicals. In addition, daily CoQ10 supplementation has been associated with increases in overall sperm health and motility (i.e. movement).
CoQ10 and Female Fertility
This nutrient has also displayed benefits for female fertility. Multiple studies show that 600 mg daily of CoQ10 supplements resulted in improved egg health and fertilization rates. Again, this may be due to CoQ10’s role as a powerful antioxidant, as oxidative stress is associated with poor egg quality or quantity of egg. Also known as diminished ovarian reserve, this is a big contributor to female infertility.
Consider Taking CoQ10 Supplements To Improve Fertility
For individuals or couples experiencing fertility issues, CoQ10 may promote benefits to boost sperm and egg health and function. If you are interested in CoQ10 supplementation for male fertility, Nutrabloom’s Male Fertility Formula, which contains CoQ10 as well as other ingredients designed to support optimal sperm health and quality, can potentially provide the boost you’re looking for. Or, if you’re interested in taking CoQ10 to supplement female fertility, consider Nutrabloom’s Preconception Formula, which contains CoQ10 as well as other essential nutrients for women before conception.