Low sperm count is a common cause of infertility in men, MayoClinic.com reports. Not having enough sperm makes it less likely that a sperm cell will fertilize your partner's egg. If you are having issues with fertility, check in with your doctor to see what treatments may help you. Additionally, you may want to eat a diet that boosts your sagging sperm count.
Antioxidants
Like all your body's cells, your sperm cells are under a constant assault from renegade cells known as "free radicals." Free radicals are misshapen cells that attack and destroy the healthy cells around them. Consuming an antioxidant-rich diet can improve sperm count and overall sperm health, reports the April 2005 issue of "Human Reproduction." In this study, researchers from the University of California at Berkeley found that men who ate the most antioxidants in their diet had the highest sperm counts. Natural foods rich in antioxidants include green tea, green leafy vegetables, berries and whole grains.
Zinc
Zinc is an important part of a healthy diet because it helps your body produce enzymes that support metabolism. Poor zinc intake is a common dietary cause of low sperm count, MayoClinic.com states. According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, men need to consume at least 11 mg of zinc per day. Top sources of zinc in the diet include shellfish, fortified breakfast cereals, organ meats and fish.
Body Weight
A healthy diet that supports a healthy body weight is important for increasing sperm count. MayoClinic.com reports that being overweight throws off your body's hormones -- potentially interfering with sperm production. Cutting down on portion sizes, exercising more and reducing your intake of calorie-rich foods can help you achieve and maintain a body weight that supports healthy sperm production.
Vitamin B-12
Vitamin B-12 is a must for sperm health because of its role in the production of new sperm cells. A diet rich in vitamin B-12 can increase low sperm counts in certain people, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports. You can reach your daily vitamin B-12 target of 2.4 micrograms per day by consuming a diet rich in lean animal products such as salmon, clams, eggs and steak.
