Recent studies have highlighted a concerning decline in sperm count among men aged 25 to 40, with lifestyle and environmental factors playing a significant role in this decline. Experts stress the importance of adopting healthier habits to combat this trend and improve male fertility.
Fertility Crisis Among Men
Dr. Ankita Kaushal, a fertility and IVF specialist at Motherhood Fertility and IVF in Navi Mumbai, explains that the decrease in sperm count is linked to multiple lifestyle factors. “Men, like women, are experiencing fertility challenges,” Dr. Kaushal says. “The reduction in sperm count is largely due to environmental pollution, poor dietary choices, sedentary lifestyles, and high stress levels.”
Dr. Sulbha Arora, clinical director at Nova IVF Fertility in Mumbai, underscores that while aging does not drastically impact sperm count like it does egg count in women, various other factors still influence male fertility. These include lack of physical activity, poor diet, environmental pollutants, and addiction to harmful substances.
Key Contributing Factors
According to Dr. Arora, the changing lifestyle is one of the most significant contributors to declining sperm health. A diet high in processed foods, coupled with inadequate physical activity, is linked to obesity and exposure to harmful chemicals. These can hinder sperm production. Additionally, environmental pollutants like phthalates and bisphenol-A (BPA) disrupt hormone levels and compromise sperm quality. Stress, which increases cortisol levels, further inhibits testosterone production, which is crucial for maintaining healthy sperm.
What You Can Do to Improve Sperm Health
To address this issue, doctors recommend several lifestyle changes to improve sperm health:
Adopt a Balanced Diet: Focus on whole foods, including green leafy vegetables, whole grains, legumes, lentils, soybeans, eggs, bananas, walnuts, tomatoes, and pumpkin seeds. Avoid fast food and processed snacks.
Engage in Regular Exercise: Physical activity is key to maintaining a healthy reproductive system.
Practice Stress Management: Yoga, meditation, and other relaxation techniques can help manage stress, which impacts sperm health.
Avoid Harmful Substances: Reduce exposure to chemicals, drugs, and steroids, as well as limit alcohol and tobacco use.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: A balanced weight supports overall reproductive health and improves sperm quality.
Consult a Specialist: For personalized treatment, visit a fertility consultant who can provide tests and tailored recommendations.
By making these changes, men can improve both sperm quality and quantity, significantly enhancing their fertility.
Related topics:
Understanding the True Impact of Chronic Pain
The Rise of Muscle Dysmorphia Among Men: A Growing Crisis Fueled by Social Media
Local Man Shares Health Care Story, Urges Support for Hospital Fundraising Campaign
