Is there anything I can do to improve the viability of my sperm?
You are what you eat!
Nutrition, lifestyle and exercise all play a vital role in the health of your body…and the same goes for sperm health too. Being overweight, leading a sedentary yet stressful life, addictions like alcohol and tobacco…all have an impact on the quality of your sperm.
Eat well, to improve your sperm health
If you and your partner are trying to get pregnant (and even if you’re not) now is a good time to start eating better.
Cut down on fatty, fried foods; bulk up on fresh fruit and vegetables; switch to whole grain bread, rice and pasta, avoid processed meat and fish likely to contain increased mercury levels, and start taking a quality vitamin supplement to balance out all your vitamin and mineral needs. Men-specific supplement called Menovit would be a good choice.
The diet essentials for sperm health
You’re looking to increase your intake of the following vitamins and minerals for the best chance of increasing your fertility:
- Vitamins B12, C & E
Selenium - Betacarotene
- Zinc
- Omega 3 (Fish oils/Flax oil)
Balancing exercise and rest to improve your sperm
To maintain a healthy weight ( a body mass index between 25-30 is ideal) and to maximise your chances of producing healthy, fertile sperm, regular exercise is a must. It doesn’t need to be a sweaty workout at the gym, simply go for long, brisk walks with your partner a couple of times a week, go swimming, uncover that bicycle in the back of the garage and get on it!
But remember, as equally as important as exercise is getting proper and adequate rest too. That normally means 6-8 hours of solid sleep.
Distress or de-stress for sperm health?
Reducing your stress levels by taking time out to relax is really important if you want to give yourself the best chances of fathering a child. Meditation, soaking in a warm (not too hot) bath, listening to music, reading, reducing your workload…all good!
And remember…alcohol, drugs and tobacco all have adverse effects on your health and fertility. Now is a great time to quit!
For more information on male infertility and the treatments available, contact us now!