Carob effects on antioxidant enzyme and elements level in infertile men: Secondary data analysis from a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

IntroductionAntioxidants play important roles in sperm quality. Carob (Ceratonia siliqua) is a natural source of antioxidants and it is used traditionally to improve the quality of semen. The current study aimed to evaluate the effect of carob syrup administration on the copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn-SOD) activity and Zn and selenium (Se) levels in the serum of infertile men. Based on the authors knowledge, this is the first study on this topic. MethodsThis study was a parallel, randomized controlled trial that included 60 infertile men. Patients were divided randomly into two groups. Carob group received carob syrup twice a day and vitamin E group received vitamin E 100 mg twice a day for 3 months. SOD activity and Zn and Se levels were measured before and 3 months after the intervention. ResultsSe level was significantly increased in the carob and vitamin E groups after intervention; however, this difference was not significant between the two groups (P = 0.65). No significant differences were observed in SOD activity and Zn level between the carob and vitamin E groups (P = 0.07 and P = 0.65, respectively). The regression analysis showed an improvement in sperm count with increasing Se level (P = 0.05). Correlation between SOD activity and sperm motility was not significant at α = 0.05; however, it can be considered marginally significant at α = 0.1 (P = 0.08). ConclusionsCarob administration can improve Se level in infertile men; however, its effects on Zn level and SOD activity are unclear. Nevertheless, more studies are required to investigate the different doses and duration of carob administration.