Final answer:
Deficiencies in vitamin C, zinc, vitamin D, and folate are related to poor sperm quality and concentration, along with abnormal sperm shape. These nutrients are essential for healthy sperm development and function. Nutrition, lifestyle factors, and structural issues within the reproductive tract can impact male fertility.
Step-by-step explanation:
Poor sperm quality and concentration, along with abnormal sperm shape, are related to deficiencies in certain nutrients, including vitamin C, zinc, vitamin D, and folate. Each of these nutrients plays a critical role in ensuring the development of healthy and functional sperm. For instance, zinc is essential for sperm formation and testosterone production, while folate is involved in DNA synthesis and repair, crucial for the genetic quality of sperm. Vitamin C, an antioxidant, can protect sperm from oxidative stress, and vitamin D has been linked to sperm motility.
Nutrition directly affects semen production, and good proteins and vitamins are necessary to maintain semen quality. Factors such as body temperature, atmospheric temperature, alcohol use, smoking, and certain medications can negatively impact spermatogenesis, which is the process of sperm development. Furthermore, structural issues within the male reproductive tract can also contribute to male infertility by hindering the proper ejaculation of sperm.