Effect of ascorbic acid supplementation on the sperm quality of smokers.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the effect of ascorbic acid supplementation on the sperm quality of heavy smokers.


METHODS
Microscopic examination of semen for 1 month during supplementation with placebo or ascorbic acid at dose levels of 200 or 1,000 mg/d.


METHODS
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch.


METHODS
Seventy-five men (20 to 35 years old) randomly divided into one of three supplementation groups: placebo, 200 mg and 1,000 mg of ascorbic acid.


RESULTS
Improvement in sperm quality as compared with presupplementation levels and between the three treatment groups.


RESULTS
The placebo group showed no improvement in sperm quality. The groups receiving ascorbic acid showed improvement in sperm quality with most improvement in the 1,000-mg group. Pearson's correlation showed statistically significant relationships between the weekly group means of serum and seminal plasma ascorbic acid levels and sperm qualities.


CONCLUSIONS
Ascorbic acid supplementation of heavy smokers in excess of 200 mg/d results in improved sperm quality.
Dawson
E B
EB
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston 77555.
Harris
W A
WA
Teter
M C
MC
Powell
L C
LC
D000328:Adult; D001205:Ascorbic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000378:metabolism / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002449:Cell Aggregation; D002470:Cell Survival; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012661:Semen / Q000378:metabolism; D012907:Smoking / Q000009:adverse effects*; D013076:Sperm Count; D013081:Sperm Motility; D013094:Spermatozoa / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology*
D001205:Ascorbic Acid