Couples in the modern world are facing more fertility issues than ever before. In fact, approximately 1 in 6 couples will face infertility, and 30-50% of those cases involve male factor infertility. The below outline some of the main factors you should stay aware of:
Smoking
So many studies have been conducted into the negative impact that smoking has on health in general. There has been several studies into the affects of smoking on male fertility, but much more research is needed to draw more conclusions. However, there are inferences that can be seen from evidence based reviews of the studies. It suggests that there is a correlation between smoking and reduced sperm function, and semen quality.
Diet
An unhealthy diet is another factor that not only affects all aspects of your health, but also your fertility. There’s many so called fertility diets available online, but most of them have no scientific value. Essentially, all you should do is follow a balanced diet, with anti-oxidant fruit and vegetables. If you do want to add some supplements for increasing your fertility, then zinc is needed to help sperm productions. Studies have shown that the male sex glands, and sperm have high concentrations of zinc, but most diets are low in the nutrient. You can take a zinc supplement, or you can try adding foods that are naturally high in zinc, such as eggs, whole grains, brown rice, nuts, sardines and fish.
Alcohol
Excessive drinking of alcohol can lead to problems with fertility. There’s some scientific evidence that excessive alcohol consumption can lower testosterone levels, which leads to reduced sperm quality, and reduced sperm quantity. It can also cause problems with libido, and impotence. Reducing the amount of alcohol you consume can help to reverse these effects.
Heat
The testicles are outside the body as a way of regulating the temperature needed for proper sperm production. Overheating them can cause reduced motility, because prolonged heat can actually make the sperm die. You should avoid things like hot saunas, hot tubs, tight underwear, and keep your laptop off your lap. If you work in a hot environment, such as a kitchen, make sure that you take regular breaks to cool off.
Sleep
Your sleep patterns are another factor that will impact on all aspects of your health, and this may include your fertility. Research from the Boston University School of Public Health found that the needed level of sleep for optimum health is 7 to 8 hours. Men who slept for 6 hours or less, and men who slept for 9 hours or more, had a 42% reduced probability of conception. The research seems to suggest that there is a link between sleep and testosterone production. Other studies have also found a correlation between sleep and decreased libido, and a more generally unhealthy lifestyle.
Stress
There has been a number of studies conducted on the effects of stress on male infertility. The evidence suggests that the hormone released due to stress can inhibit testosterone production, which in turn negatively affects sperm production. The extent of this negative impact is difficult to measure, and the data available currently has come mostly from animal models, however, there is enough evidence to prove that stress is a causative factor.
Weight
Your weight can impact your fertility. Most people are aware of the health risks associated with being over weight, and the affect that this can have on sperm production. Obesity can cause hormone imbalance, which affects sperm, and it can decrease your sex drive. The excess weight can also increase the temperature around the testes, and it can lead to erection dysfunction.
Caffeine
Caffeine can cause damage to sperm. Most people think of coffee, but tea, cola, soda, and even chocolate contain caffeine. The studies that have been conducted suggest that caffeine damages the DNA structures within sperm.
There’s so many other factors involved when determining your fertility, but adjusting your lifestyle, and making changes now can improve your sperm. Another factor is age, which is why many men are looking to Legacy to preserve their future fertility. There’s a range of packages available to suit everyone, and it is the best way to ensure that in the years to come, you will be prepared for whatever your future brings.