Vitamin B12 or cobalamin is one of the 8 vitamins that are collectively recognized as Vitamin B complex. B12 benefits for male fertility are many but the body does not make the vitamin on its own. It has to be taken from outside sources and men have to keep a track of their B12 levels as the deficiency may decrease fertility, and make them less healthy, forgetful, and sluggish.
Key Points
- Vitamin B12 or cobalamin is a component of the vitamin B complex that can only be taken from outside sources
- The daily recommended amount of B12 in males increases as you age since the ability of the body to absorb the vitamins decreases in old age (over 40 years)
- Vitamin B12 is essential to treat sexual dysfunction in men as it increases semen quality, sperm count, and sperm motility and prevents premature ejaculation.
- It is recommended for men to keep a track of their B12 levels as the deficiency may lead to infertility, muscle weakness, and neurological problems including depression.
Daily Vitamin B12 Requirement in Males
Keeping a track of Vitamin B12 levels is important. The table enlists the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of cobalamin (B12) in males;
| Age | RDA in Males
(mcg) |
| 0-6 months | 0.4 |
| 7-12 months | 0.5 |
| 1-3 years | 0.9 |
| 4-8 years | 1.2 |
| 9-13 years | 1.8 |
| 14-18 years | 2.4 |
| 19+ years | 2.4 |
As men age, their ability to absorb the vitamins also decreases. Hence, as you age the daily intake must be increased accordingly to avoid the symptoms of deficiency.
If you are facing a deficiency of Vitamin B12, consult a doctor for anemia.
Is Vitamin B12 Important for Men?
Vitamin B12 is also known as cobalamin as it contains cobalt in the center. B12 is essential for increasing male fertility and preventing neurological, and blood-related disorders. The vitamin B12 benefits for males are discussed in detail below;
Vitamin B12 Improves Semen Quality in Men
You might be thinking is B12 good for sperm? Data shows that almost 40-50% of infertility cases are due to male factors. This results in an increased need to improve fertility in males. Vitamin B12 plays a vital role in this regard as it has shown an ability to improve semen quality.
The quality of semen is enhanced by increasing sperm count and motility. Vitamin B12 for male fertility acts primarily by enhancing the function of the male reproductive organs and decreasing the levels of an amino acid called homocysteine in the body. Homocysteine toxicity may result in decreased male fertility and blood flow obstruction in the testes.
Also, read about the role of selenium in male fertility.
B12 is Essential for Maintaining Testicular Function
The Vitamin B complex component, B12 is investigated for its effects on male reproductive organs. Research shows that the decreased levels of Vitamin B12 in males decrease testicular function. Several complications associated with the decreased vitamin levels include atrophy or decreased size of seminiferous tubules, and abnormal development of spermatocytes, spermatids, and spermatozoa.
Vitamin B12 is also important for the process of production of sperm which is known as spermatogenesis.
Vitamin B12 for male fertility and the morphological changes in the testes resulting from its deficiency was supported by research conducted on rats. Decreased vitamin levels also reduce testosterone levels in men, which further reduces fertility.
Vitamin B12 prevents Premature Ejaculation in Men
Premature ejaculation occurs when the semen leaves the body sooner than required during intercourse. Vitamin B12 is a cofactor required for the synthesis of the serotonin hormone. Serotonin is an excitatory neurotransmitter and its decreased levels due to Vitamin B12 deficiency results in an inhibitory effect on ejaculation. Hence, it is important to maintain the levels of vitamin b12 for male fertility contributes to treating infertility in males.
Do you know about the foods that help erections in men?
B12 Reduces Sperm DNA Damage to Increase Male Fertility
Vitamins including B12 and folic acid play a key role in the synthesis of genetic material which includes DNA and RNA. The maintenance and synthesis of DNA in the body are highly affected by the deficiency of vitamin B12. Sperm DNA also requires this vitamin for imparting reproductive effects in males.
The major factor contributing to infertility in males is sperm DNA damage as it can decrease sperm count and motility. Hence, the semen analysis confirms that maintaining the optimum levels of B12 is important in males in order to reduce oxidative sperm damage and prevent and treat infertility.
Vitamin B12 is Essential for Preventing the Loss of Libido
Vitamin B12 benefits for males also include the prevention of low sex drive in men. An indirect relation is established between vitamin B12 deficiency and decreased sex drive. Deficiency of B12 results in pernicious anemia which if left untreated, results in loss of libido. In addition, the resulting depression, fatigue, and lack of energy from the deficiency of B12 can also contribute to the loss of sex drive, especially in men.
Also, read to know the other health benefits of Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 Boosts the production of RBCs and Neuronal Functioning
Vitamin B12 contributes to the production of healthy red blood cells along with folic acid. The deficiency of B12 results in the production of abnormal RBCs lacking the oxygen-carrying capacity which is also known as pernicious anemia. This causes a decrease in the blood supply to the tests and hence the reduced testicular function.
Additionally, a protective covering of the neurons in the brain, the myelin sheath also requires vitamin B12 for its synthesis. Lack of vitamins results in nerve damage and hence the signaling to the different organs of the body including the testes. This contributes to infertility in males.
What are the symptoms of low B12 in Men?
Reduces levels of vitamin B12 results in;
- Fatigue
- Pale skin
- Depression
- Infertility
The deficiency can result from inadequate dietary consumption of the vitamin, or due to certain diseases such as gastritis or gout.
Conclusion
Vitamin B12 is an essential component of the body that is obtained only from outside sources including foods, dietary supplements, and prescription medicines. Vitamin B12 contributes significant benefits to males by increasing their fertility. It plays a vital role in increasing sperm count, and sperm motility, decreasing sperm DNA damage and promoting testicular functions.
FAQs
1. How much B12 is considered safe in men?
The levels of vitamin B12 up to 2000 mcg are considered safe in men but the values may vary depending on age and other underlying medical conditions. Hence, it is recommended to consult a doctor prior to taking any dietary supplements.
2. Can Vitamin B12 make you fertile?
Optimum levels of vitamin B12 increase sperm count, motility, and testosterone production, and reduces sperms damage. These factors contribute to increased fertility in males. Vitamin B12 is also good for female fertility as plays a role in improving egg health.
3. Does Vitamin B12 increase sperm count?
Vitamin B12 has a positive effect on semen quality as it has been shown that it increases sperm count, and enhances sperm motility, and reduces sperm DNA damage.
4. Does sperm contain Vitamin B12?
Sperm contains vitamin C, B12, ascorbic acid, lactic acid, magnesium, calcium, citric acid, fructose, zinc, potassium, sodium, fat, and hundreds of multiple proteins.