Abstract
In order to obtain a successful outcome in artificial insemination programs, a few precautions must be taken with regard to male breeders. It is established that environmental factors can change the hormonal secretion, the cell differentiation that occurs in the testicles, as well as sperm maturation and transport in the epididymis. In view of adverse nutritional factors, reproductive organs can present degeneration and disorders in different degrees and intensities, affecting the animal fertility. The term nutraceutical describes products derived from foods, which may provide additional health benefits, beyond the basic value found in diets. Among the main nutraceuticals used in male reproduction, there are omega-3, arginine, B-complex vitamins, L-carnitine, β-carotene and antioxidants. The aim of this paper is to present the main substances used as nutraceuticals, in order to improve semen quality, obtaining most favorable outcomes in the use of artificial insemination.