When it comes to sperm, quality is often more significant than quantity.  One of the primary factors in determining the quality of sperm is motility, which is the ability of the sperm to move and swim.  Obviously, sperm motility is important since sperm that cannot move or swim cannot reach the egg to fertilize it.

Some studies suggest that one cause of low sperm motility may be nutritional issues.  During a meeting of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine it was stated that the more produce a man consumed, the more sperm motility improved.  Results of a questionnaire indicated that men who consumed the fewest fruits and vegetables had the lowest sperm motility.  One possible explanation for this is that antioxidants may help to protect the sperm from damage that may lead to low sperm motility.

Some naturopathic  nutritional changes may help to correct low sperm motility:

• Drink plenty of water each and every day.  The importance of this cannot be overstated.
• Consume natural foods with a focus on vegetables, grains, nuts, fruits, fish and lean meats such as turkey or chicken.
• Consider a zinc supplement.  Taking 60 mg of this essential mineral every day over several months may improve sperm motility.
• Consider a vitamin E supplement.  Take 400 IUs twice daily. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps to improve the sperms’ ability to impregnate.
• Vitamin C is another antioxidant that helps to prevent oxidative damage and is believed to help prevent sperm from sticking together (sperm agglutination).

Some things to avoid include:

• Stay cool.  Testicles may become overheated by wearing tight underwear or by prolonged soaks in baths or spas.
• Do not smoke.  There is an association between smoking and low sperm count, low sperm motility, and abnormal sperm morphology (shape).
• Curb alcohol consumption.  Alcohol consumption has been associated with causing defective sperm.
• Avoid saturated fats and hydrogenated oils.  Instead, use olive or canola oil.

Proxeed, a fairly new nutritional supplement, contains many of the nutrients believed to aid in low sperm motility and male fertility in general. The ingredients in ProXeed improve sperm count, concentration, and motility when taken orally for about 2 months.  Since Proxeedis available without a prescription it may be a good starting point toward improving low sperm motility but those considering it should consult their physician first.