Nutrition plays a big part in Men’s health. Studies have shown that a diet that is lacking in nutrient richness can lead to male infertility. Ensuring you have a well rounded, healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, nutritious food and required sleep is crucial for healthy sperm production.

 

Male Infertility

Male infertility most commonly occurs when a male cannot produce or deliver fully functioning sperm to the female ova, development or shape of sperm is different, inhibiting it’s ability to move properly or sperm count is abnormally low. Infertility is not uncommon in both men and women. Other factors that can lead to infertility include:

  • hormonal imbalances such as testosterone deficiency, oestrogen excess, sperm antibody production
  • increased toxic load from smoking, excess alcohol, recreational drugs
  • Obesity
  • Environmental Toxins

Male infertility affects roughly 7% of men.

 

Nutrition for Men’s Health

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Zinc

Zinc is an essential mineral that has many health benefits. It can be found in seafood, meat, nuts/seeds and certain veggies. Zinc is very important for our bodies and is considered one of the most important minerals for male sexual function. High levels of Zinc can be found in both the prostate and testes and is involved with almost all aspects of male reproduction. When Zinc intake has been increased, studies have shown improvement with not only sperm count but other areas also.

 

Selenium

Selenium is a mineral that can be found in Brazil Nuts, Tuna, Cooked Brown Rice and eggs. It has many benefits. Selenium is essential for male fertility as it is needed for the synthesis of testosterone, the production and maturation of healthy sperm and more. It greatly influences the structure of sperm, especially the tail. A deficiency in Selenium can impact the sperms ability to travel in the needed direction.

 

L-Carnitine

L-Carnitine is an Amino Acid Derivative that can be found (in small amounts) in meat and fish. It is needed for quality and the maturing of sperm. When L-Carnitine levels are lower than normal, sperm development, function and motility are impacted.

 

Withania (Ashwagandha Root)

Ashwagandha is a type of shrub that can be found growing in Asia or Africa. It is most commonly used for stress. Research shows that taking Ashwagandha Root for roughly 3 months can improve hormone levels as well as sperm count and motility.

 

Panax Ginseng

Panax Ginseng is a plant that’s roots are used by some people, to make medicine. Taking Panax Ginseng orally for 8 weeks can improve sexual function in men with Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

 

Tribulus

Tribulus is a plant that is seen as an aphrodisiac in many cultures. It can improve libido in both men and women, increase sperm count and improve the quality of sperm.

 

 

For more information on Nutrition for Men’s Health, our Nutritionist Marriam Hammoud is conducting online consultations.

Our Naturopath Katherine De Jonge can offer help with any of the above mentioned supplements and is also currently doing online consultations.

 

Katherine De Jonge                          Marriam Hammoud