Research looking at the connection between reproductive medicine and nutrition points to the male's role in the effect of lifestyle on fertility. Just as fertility experts have long been advising women to change their diets and manage their weight, men are being asked to do the same.
Weight and Fertility
Weight, measured by body mass index, or BMI, is clearly linked to fertility. Based on numerous studies, fertility specialists are regularly instructing men and women to lose weight to enhance their fertility. A 2007 study in "Human Reproduction" documented that as male BMI went up, so did their rates of infertility. The optimal range for fertility is what's considered a "normal" BMI of 19 to 25.
Basic Healthy Diet
The starting point for any man, whether he's been diagnosed with infertility or not, is a basic healthy diet. Moderation is the key. Research recommends slow-burning carbohydrates that are low on the glycemic index, low-fat meats--more fish and poultry and less red meat--and plenty of fruits and vegetables every day.
Special Nutrients
There are no miracle foods that will cure infertility or even instantly boost normal fertility. But there are some nutritional components that have been found to be more valuable in the daily diet of a man with fertility issues. Antioxidants are important to the production and protection of sperm cells. Fruits and vegetables are the primary source. Zinc and folic acid have been spotlighted in recent research, as described by the Bastyr Center for Natural Health, for boosting sperm count. Sources for zinc include shellfish, meats, dairy and beans, while the B vitamin folic acid is found in many fruits and veggies.
Nutritional Supplements
If your daily diet isn't loaded with the good basics, taking a multivitamin can help. Some supplements are made especially for fertility-focused men to make sure you're getting those special nutrients. Additional supplements that are recommended to men by nutrition experts and fertility specialists alike include CoQ10, an antioxidant that studies have linked to sperm motility, as well as selenium and N-acetylcysteine (NAC), both of which are associated with improved sperm count and movement.
References
- "Human Reproduction"; Men's body mass index and infertility; RH Nguyen et al.; September 2007
- Shady Grove Fertility: The Effect of Weight on Fertility
- What to Expect: Fertility Foods for Men
- Bastyr Center for Natural Health: Folic Acid, Zinc Supplementation May Help Infertile Men
- "Journal of Endocrinological Investigation"; Coenzyme Q10 and male infertility; G. Balercia, et al.; July 2009
- "Journal of Urology"; Efficacy of Selenium and/or N-Acetyl-Cysteine for Improving Semen Parameters in Infertile Men: A Double-Blind, Placebo Controlled, Randomized Study; M. R. Safarinejad; December 2008
