Many couples struggling to conceive try a variety of natural or alternative methods to increase the viability and amount of sperm the male produces. Quality and amount of sperm may be affected by a variety of factors, including diet. Men seeking to increase their virility can take natural herbal supplements known to increase libido, which can get expensive, or improve the production and viability of sperm through foods.
Seeds and Nuts
Pumpkin and sunflower seeds, which have long been used by those adhering to natural or herbal medicine to increase fertility in males, increase not only sex drive but also sperm count. AmazingPregnancy.com suggests that men consumer about 1/4 cup of raw pumpkin or sunflower seeds every day. Almonds are also recommended, according to HealthGuidance.org.
Organic Fruits and Vegetables
Whenever possible, consume only organic foods to reduce the amount of chemicals ingested into the body. Some foods contain chemicals or preservatives that may affect fertility or sperm quality. Stick to high-protein vegetables and fruits, such as celery, bananas and avocados. Tomatoes are high in lycopene, which may help increase sperm count, and fruits containing vitamins C and E may help promote production of sperm as well as their motility.
Oysters and Fish
Oysters have long held the coveted reputation of increasing a man's virility because of high contents of zinc, which increases testosterone levels as well as production of semen. Other types of fish, such as herring, mackerel and haddock, are not only rich in zinc but also other minters. Shellfish, such as lobster and crab, are also rich in zinc and can help increase the production of sperm.
