Antioxidants and egg quality
Understanding oxidative stress.
Oxidative stress refers to an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body's ability to neutralize and detoxify them. ROS are highly reactive molecules naturally produced in the body as byproducts of various metabolic processes. While a certain level of ROS is necessary for normal cellular function, excessive production can lead to oxidative stress, damaging cells, proteins, lipids, and DNA.
Scientific data indicate that oxidative damage impacts mitochondria, reducing energy production and quality and that eggs and embryos from older women and those with fertility issues have reduced antioxidants available for protection against ROS.
Oxidative stress can have a negative impact on male and female reproductive health.
Female fertility: Oxidative stress can negatively affect female fertility by damaging ovarian follicles, disrupting hormone balance, and impairing egg quality. It can also contribute to inflammation and damage in the reproductive organs, including the fallopian tubes and the uterus. Fortunately, ovarian follicles contain many different antioxidants to neutralise the effects of oxidation. Women with particular fertility issues have a diminished supply of antioxidants, increasing the need to source a greater quantity through diet and supplements.
Male fertility: Oxidative stress can impair sperm function and lead to male infertility. High levels of ROS can cause DNA damage in sperm, affecting their motility, morphology, and fertilizing ability. Increased levels of ROS in the seminal fluid can also reduce sperm count and viability.
*Researchers have found that women with higher antioxidant levels during IVF cycles have a greater chance of becoming pregnant.
increasing antioxidants
Antioxidants play a crucial role in counteracting oxidative stress. They are molecules that can neutralize ROS and prevent or minimize their damaging effects. Antioxidants work by donating electrons to ROS, stabilizing them, and reducing their reactivity. Some important antioxidants involved in fertility include:
Vitamin C: It helps protect sperm DNA integrity and improves sperm quality. It also plays a role in maintaining a healthy reproductive system in females.
Vitamin E: This fat-soluble antioxidant protects sperm and egg cells from oxidative damage. It also supports overall reproductive health.
Selenium: Selenium is an essential trace mineral that functions as a cofactor for antioxidant enzymes, such as glutathione peroxidase. It helps protect sperm and eggs from oxidative stress.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): CoQ10 is involved in energy production within cells and acts as an antioxidant. It has been shown to improve sperm and egg quality.
Glutathione: Glutathione is a potent intracellular antioxidant that helps protect eggs and sperm from oxidative damage. It is particularly important for sperm health.
Melatonin: Supplementing with melatonin reduces oxidative damage and improves egg and embryo quality. Melatonin is only suitable in the IVF context. If planning a natural pregnancy the beneficial impact of supplemental melatonin is unclear. In women with PCOS melatonin has been seen to have a positive impact on hormones that regulate ovulation.
A diet rich in rainbow colours, especially reds, blues and purples
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can provide a wide range of antioxidants.
‘making HEALTHY Babies’ preconception care program
The ‘Making Healthy Babies’ eCourse has oxidative stress reduction covered. Module 1, Cleaning Up will go a long way to detoxing your body and environment. Boosting your antioxidant levels is also supported with Eating to Conceive along with recommended supplements.
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34121193