Amy Swan - United Kingdom
Abstract of the presentation
A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis Exploring the Role of Dietary Supplements on Oxidative Stress and the Impact on Sperm Parameters in Infertile Men
Co-authors: Miranda Harris MSc, SFHEA, BANT, CNHC
Branch: Other (Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine)
Introduction: Male fertility is declining faster than expected, with links between oxidative stress and infertility increasing, and evidence to suggest dietary supplements may improve sperm oxidative stability. This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated dietary supplement effects on oxidative stress and their role in enhancing sperm parameters.
Methods: Registered on PROSPERO (CRD42024585107), the inclusion criteria were humans, male adults of reproductive age, and studies evaluating dietary supplements, oxidative stress, and sperm parameters. Four databases were searched from inception to May 2024. Cochrane’s Risk of Bias tool assessed quality, and random-effects meta-analysis with standardised mean differences and 95% confidence intervals were conducted using Review Manager.
Results: Five studies involving 359 participants examined the effects of 12-week supplementation on sperm parameters. Significant improvements were observed in sperm concentration (mean difference = 3.93, p = 0.004), forward/progressive motility (mean difference = 4.07, p = 0.05), total sperm motility (mean difference = 5.75, p = 0.003), total sperm count (mean difference = 11.50, p = 0.03), total antioxidant capacity (mean difference = 0.67, p = 0.02), and malondialdehyde levels (mean difference = –0.12, p = 0.001). Sperm concentration saw the greatest effects with 200mg of coenzyme Q10 and 25mg of lycopene; forward/progressive motility with 465mg of DHA, 600IU of vitamin E and 25mg of lycopene; total sperm motility, total sperm count and total antioxidant capacity with 600mg of alpha-lipoic acid and 25mg of lycopene; malondialdehyde levels with 465mg of DHA, 600IU of vitamin E and 600mg of alpha-lipoic acid. Results showed mixed heterogeneity and GRADE assessment revealed variability in study quality.
Conclusion: Sperm concentration, forward/progressive motility, total sperm motility, total sperm count, total antioxidant capacity, and malondialdehyde saw enhancements following antioxidant supplementation, identifying some preliminary antioxidant benefits in reducing oxidative stress and enhancing male fertility parameters, which may be confirmed with further research.
Curriculum vitae
Professional Profile
I am a registered Nutritional Therapist specialising in fertility and hormone health. As founder of Amy Swan Nutrition, I provide evidence-based nutrition and lifestyle support for individuals and couples navigating infertility, PCOS, endometriosis and male fertility challenges.
Alongside clinical practice, I deliver signature talks and workshops for businesses, helping to normalise conversations about fertility and reproductive health in the workplace.
Key Skills & Expertise
- Fertility & Hormone Health (women & men)
- Personalised Nutrition & Lifestyle Coaching
- Behaviour Change & Motivational Interviewing
Career Experience
Planning Director
Battersea Power Station Development Company | 2014 – 2024
My career began in property development in a corporate environment, including as Planning Director at Battersea Power Station Development Company, London, giving me a unique ability to connect with both individuals and businesses.
- Responsible for gaining planning permissions for the 42-acre redevelopment of Battersea Power Station.
- Oversaw applications for the Grade II* Listed Power Station, tube station integration, affordable housing, and new retail and residential phases.
- Managed complex stakeholder relationships across local authorities, architects, investors, and community groups.
Founder & Nutritional Therapist
Amy Swan Nutrition | Feb 2025 – Present
- Provide tailored nutrition and lifestyle plans for individuals and couples on their fertility journey.
- Specialist focus: infertility, IVF support, PCOS, endometriosis, and male fertility.
- Deliver corporate talks and workshops on fertility and workplace wellbeing.
- Completed specialised fertility training with the Fertility Nutrition Centre.
- Registered with BANT, CNHC, NTOI, and Fertility Nutrition Centre.
Speaking Engagements & Workshops
- Fertility & Hormone Health in the Workplace
- Supporting Employees Through Fertility Journeys
- Nutrition & Lifestyle Strategies for PCOS and Endometriosis
- Male Fertility: Breaking the Silence
Education & Professional Training
- MSc Nutrition & Lifestyle Medicine, University of Worcester, 2023-2025
- Specialised Fertility Training, Fertility Nutrition Centre, 2024-2025
- Zest4Life, Health Coaching Programme – 20024-2025
- MSc Environmental Planning, Queens University Belfast, 2007-2008
- University College Dublin, Humanities (Geography & History of Art) 2004-2007
Professional Memberships
- BANT (British Association for Nutrition & Lifestyle Medicine)
- CNHC (Complementary & Natural Healthcare Council)
- NTOI (Nutritional Therapists of Ireland)
- Fertility Nutrition Centre
- Zest4Life
Personal Note
After years of navigating infertility and IVF, I am now a proud mum of two. My personal journey, combined with professional expertise, fuels my mission to support others on their fertility path and to open up conversations about reproductive health in the workplace.
Please note that some of the texts also include machine-generated translations.
