Effect of Lycopene on Spermatic Function and Morphology: A Prospective Evaluation

Abstract

Oxidative stress resulting in production of excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) is now considered the causative factor for sperm damage. Lycopene is naturally synthesized carotenoid found in fruits and vegetables. It is also a component of human redox mechanism that scavenges free radicals including ROS. This study was performed to analyze the effects of lycopene on sperms of infertile men. Seventy men who consulted our clinic with idiopathic infertility with oligo/astheno/teratozoospermia were included in the study. The patients in the study group were given 8 mg of lycopene in the form of two capsules twice daily. One capsule containing 2000 mcg of lycopene. It was concluded that, Lycopene supplementation showed significant effect on improving sperm count, motility and morphology in men with oligozoospermia.