Foods for Male fertility
Let’s just say it: infertility sucks.
By now, we all have friends or family who are struggling with the inability to easily conceive. We have loved ones who are hurting. Broken at every new baby announcement on Instagram, feeling dry, their grief and barrenness confronts them.
Infertility rates are skyrocketing. It’s devastating couples all across our continent. The total fertility rate dropped from 4.45 to 2.5 between 1970 and 2014. And today in 2022, it’s estimated that 15% of couples have trouble conceiving (UCLA Health, 2020.)
There’s lots of emphasis on females in the conversation about fertility. We have tons of resources on eating for fertility, on reducing toxicity for fertility, exercise, hormone balancing, and more.
But little do we talk about the man’s role in fertility.
Toxins like BPA found in plastic and phalates in body care products can affect male fertility. It’s wise for the male in any partnership trying to conceive, take a look at their toxic load. Medications, scented products, anything on the body, skin, and hair, and stress are all common players in male infertility.
But let’s talk about diet.
Food is powerful. In every bite, you have the power to heal or the power to harm. When it comes to men and superfoods for fertility, there is relevant research suggesting that specific foods do contribute to stronger swimmers!
One study from the University of California, concluded that incorporating walnuts into their dietary intake improved semen quality in men.
Healthy fats can contribute to the quality and strength of sperm, because the cell membranes are made of omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. Foods like wild-caught fish, raw nuts and seeds, olives and oysters are a great addition, therefore, to a man of reproducing age’s diet.
The consumption of unhealthy fats (found in potato chips, fast food, fried foods) on the other hand, decreased sperm concentrations in another study.
Beyond these specific foods, it’s important that a man consider their own individualized diet. A walnut is only a fertility superfood for men who can digest and absorb them. If someone is sensitive to eggs, eggs are no longer a good option for your fertility. Your body will be fighting inflammation, not geared to reproduce.
Finding professional help to personalize your diet to what your body needs is a great idea for anyone wanting to improve their fertility and their overall health.
