The Effect of Propolis on Anthropometric Indices and Body Composition in Men with Asthenozoospermia: A Randomized Double-Blind Clinical Trial

Abstract

Background: Male infertility represents a significant clinical concern. Obesity adversely affects male fertility, largely through mechanisms related to oxidative stress. Propolis, a bioactive substance produced by bees, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and has been suggested to exert potential anti-adiposity effects. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of propolis supplementation on anthropometric indices and body composition in men with asthenozoospermia. Methods: In this 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 60 men diagnosed with asthenozoospermia were randomly allocated to receive either Iranian propolis (1500 mg/day) or a matched placebo. Anthropometric measures, including body weight and waist and hip circumferences, as well as body composition parameters, including fat mass (FM), fat-free mass (FFM), percentage body fat (PBF), and visceral fat area (VFA), were assessed at baseline and after 12 weeks. Assessments were conducted using a three-dimensional body-scanning system in conjunction with bioelectrical impedance analysis. Results: Twelve weeks of propolis supplementation did not result in significant changes in body weight, body mass index (BMI), or waist-to-hip ratio. However, after adjustment for multiple comparisons, significant improvements in body composition were observed compared with the placebo group. In both per-protocol and intention-to-treat analyses, participants receiving propolis showed a significant increase in FFM and significant reductions in FM, PBF, and VFA (all Benjamini-Hochberg adjusted P < 0.05). No significant between-group difference was observed for basal metabolic rate. Conclusions: Although propolis supplementation did not result in an overall reduction in body weight, it favorably modified body composition in men with asthenozoospermia by reducing adiposity, particularly visceral fat, and increasing lean body mass. These changes may mitigate a known risk factor for male reproductive dysfunction; however, confirmatory studies that assess direct fertility outcomes are warranted.