Improves Prostate Health and Spermatogenesis
Getting enough selenium is important for overall health, but it may be especially important for men’s reproductive health. Selenium is important for fertility and plays a role in spermatogenesis, the process by which sperm are produced. Studies have shown that selenium deficiency can lead to reduced sperm motility and abnormalities in sperm morphology.
In addition, research has shown that selenium supplementation can improve sperm motility and increase the percentage of normal sperm in men with poor semen quality. Selenium may also protect against oxidative stress, which can damage sperm DNA and contribute to infertility.
One study found that men who regularly took adequate levels of selenium were at a lower risk of developing prostate cancer than men who didn’t take selenium supplements. Selenium supplements are sometimes taken to prevent or treat selenium deficiency.
Selenium deficiency is rare, but it can occur if you don’t eat foods containing selenium or your body can’t absorb it properly. Signs and symptoms of selenium deficiency include fatigue, muscle weakness, irritability, and depression. While these studies suggest that selenium may play a role in reducing the risk of prostate cancer, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
