One of the most common causes of male infertility is a low sperm count
This affects around one in three couples who are struggling to get pregnant. So we thought we’d take a look at what foods can help to increase the health of those little swimmers, who have such an important job
When trying to start a family (either naturally or through assisted conception) or just protecting your fertility for your future, it is important to ensure your body is in the right condition.
If your diet is lacking the proper nutrients, then your ability to conceive could be reduced
Neema Savvides, nutritional therapist at Harley Street Fertility Clinic runs us through a few simple dietary changes that can have a significant impact on the quantity and quality of your sperm.
Fertility Boosting Foods
Bananas contain a rare enzyme called Bromelain, which has been shown to regulate sex hormones. There’s also a good amount of vitamin B1, vitamin A, and vitamin C which will help increase stamina and boost the body’s ability to make sperm.
Oysters is the food chain’s most concentrated source of zinc, a nutrient that’s crucial for conception. Increasing zinc levels has been shown to boost sperm levels; improve the form, function and quality of male sperm. You can find zinc in smaller amounts in other fertility-friendly foods, including beef, poultry, dairy, eggs and whole grains.
Walnuts are full of omega-3 fatty acids that help boost sperm volume and production by increasing blood flow to the testicles. Walnuts also contains twice as much antioxidants other nuts, helping you fight toxins in your blood stream. They’re a great way to add flavour and crunch to salads or as a nutritious mid-afternoon snack to help manage blood sugar levels.
… and two things to give up
Diet drinks research shows that aspartame (sweetener widely used in diet drinks) is linked with lower sperm count and can contribute to sperm DNA damage. A fantastic alternative for a fizzy fix is swapping it for some sparkling mineral water.
Alcohol heavy intake has been linked to reduced libido, impotence and decreased sperm quality. The good news is even if you’ve been drinking regularly, the effects of alcohol on male fertility can be reversed. So, if you are aiming to conceive in the future, start reducing your alcohol intake now.
