Dietary Fatty Acids as Modulators of Sperm Quality - From Molecular Pathways to Nutritional Interventions

Infertility affects a growing number of families worldwide. Male factors contribute to 20–50% of infertility cases, and their improvement can help reduce the rising infertility rates. Recent studies have increasingly shown that fatty acids (FAs) can modulate sperm quality and significantly impact male fertility. This review investigates recent studies on the role of FAs in infertility, including their impact on sperm quality, FA profiles in infertility-related conditions, and the therapeutic potential of dietary and supplemental FAs. Our review reveals that omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are crucial for spermatogenesis and sperm function, and their imbalance with omega-6 PUFAs is associated with oxidative stress. FA metabolism is a promising target for infertility management. Precision nutrition strategies may complement conventional therapies, but further RCTs are needed to standardize protocols.