by Dr Agilan Arjunan, Fertility Specialist & Gynaecologist, evelyn Women Specialist Clinic (Petaling Jaya, Malaysia).
Many couples in Malaysia are affected by infertility and specifically male infertility. Around 40% of all occurrences of infertility are caused by male infertility. Being a fertility specialist in Malaysia for over many years, I do see couples facing obstacles in getting pregnant daily. Sometimes I do feel sad because generally women are blamed for infertility.
Male infertility can range from low sperm count to erectile dysfunction. While there are many causes that contribute to male infertility, research has shown that food may have a big impact on increasing male fertility. The following dietary habits could help male infertility:
Boost your antioxidant intake.
Antioxidants are nutrients that guard the body against harm from dangerous chemicals known as free radicals. Free radicals can produce oxidative stress, which can harm sperm DNA and reduce sperm count and motility, according to studies. By consuming more antioxidants, you may be able to lower oxidative stress and increase male fertility. Antioxidant-rich foods include fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
Consume a healthy diet.
As a fertility doctor in Malaysia, I have always advised couples who are trying to conceive to watch what they eat. Male fertility can be increased by eating a balanced diet that contains a variety of meals from all food categories. The necessary elements the body needs to function effectively are given to it by a balanced diet. Male fertility may be negatively impacted by a diet rich in processed foods, refined sugars, and saturated fats. Instead, concentrate on consuming nutrient-dense whole meals.
Boost your consumption of omega-3 fatty acids.
Essential fatty acids like omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for overall wellness. Omega-3 fatty acids may increase sperm motility and count, according to studies. Fatty fish (such as salmon, tuna, and sardines), nuts, and seeds are foods high in omega-3 fatty acids. Guys, start eating your fish to reduce male infertility.
Limit your alcohol consumption.
Male fertility may be negatively impacted by excessive alcohol use. Alcohol can lower testosterone levels, reduce sperm count and motility, and increase the number of defective sperm, according to studies. Limiting your alcohol intake is crucial if you want to increase your fertility.
Reduce your consumption of processed foods.
Salt, sugar, and bad fats are all found in abundance in processed foods. Also, they could have preservatives and substances that are bad for their health. Research has suggested that a diet heavy in processed foods may reduce sperm motility and count. Instead, concentrate on consuming nutrient-dense whole meals.
Boost your zinc intake.
An essential mineral required for good health is zinc. According to studies, zinc may increase sperm motility and count. Oysters, cattle, pigs, poultry, beans, and nuts are among the foods high in zinc.
Think about taking a multivitamin every day.
The body can receive the vital elements it requires to function effectively via a daily multivitamin. A daily multivitamin may increase sperm motility and count, according to studies.
In conclusion, food habits might be quite important for enhancing male fertility. Sperm count and motility may be enhanced by consuming a balanced diet high in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and other necessary minerals. Male fertility may benefit from avoiding excessive alcohol use and restricting their intake of processed meals. Consider making some dietary adjustments and speaking with your male infertility doctor about further measures you may take to increase your chances of getting pregnant if you’re attempting to increase your fertility. More often than not, we always look for the best Fertility Clinic or Fertility Center in Malaysia or the best Male Infertility Clinic in Malaysia, but we fail to realize that the ‘best fertility doctor’ is you and your determination to make a difference in your fertility.