Sperm count is one of the most important factors in male fertility. There are many things that can affect sperm count, including nutrition. A diet rich in certain foods can lower sperm count, making it more difficult to conceive.
Here are 30 foods that can lower sperm count:.
1. Soy Products
Soy products contain phytoestrogens, which mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. This can lead to decreased production of testosterone, which can lower sperm count.
2. Alcohol
Drinking alcohol in excess can lower sperm count and quality. It can also cause impotence and other sexual problems.
3. Processed Foods
Processed foods are often high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. They can also contain preservatives and other chemicals that can lower sperm count.
4. Trans Fats
Trans fats are found in many packaged foods, baked goods, and fast food. They can lower sperm count and reduce overall fertility.
5. High Mercury Fish
High mercury fish like tuna and swordfish can damage the reproductive system and lower sperm count. It’s best to limit consumption of these species.
6. Red Meat
Studies have shown that high consumption of red meat can have a negative impact on sperm count and quality.
7. Caffeine
Consuming high levels of caffeine can lower sperm count and contribute to other fertility issues.
8. Refined Carbohydrates
Refined carbohydrates like white bread, pasta, and rice have a high glycemic index and can contribute to insulin resistance and lower sperm count.
9. Low Fat Dairy
Low fat dairy products like skim milk and low-fat cheese can lower sperm count due to their high levels of estrogen-like hormones.
10. Pesticide-Laden Produce
Fruits and vegetables that are high in pesticides can have a negative impact on fertility and sperm count.
11. Artificial Sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose can have a negative impact on sperm quality and may contribute to infertility.
12. Fast Food
High calorie, high fat, and high sugar fast food can contribute to low sperm count and other fertility problems.
13. Non-Organic Meat
Meat that is not organic can be filled with growth hormones and antibiotics that can lower sperm count.
14. Processed Meats
Processed meats like hot dogs and lunch meat can contain preservatives and chemicals that can lower sperm count.
15. Microwave Popcorn
Microwave popcorn can contain chemicals like perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) that can have a negative impact on fertility and sperm count.
16. Diet Soda
Diet soda can have a negative impact on sperm count and quality due to its artificial sweeteners and other chemicals.
17. Canned Foods
Canned foods can contain high levels of BPA, a chemical that can lower sperm count and damage the reproductive system.
18. Energy Drinks
Energy drinks can contain high levels of caffeine, sugar, and other chemicals that can lower sperm count and cause other fertility issues.
19. Breaded Chicken
Breaded chicken strips and nuggets often contain additives and fillers that can lower sperm count and fertility.
20. Fried Foods
Fried foods like french fries and fried chicken can be high in unhealthy fats and can lower sperm count.
21. High Sugar Foods
High sugar foods like candy, cookies, and cake can cause insulin resistance and lower sperm count.
22. High Glycemic Index Foods
Foods with a high glycemic index, like white bread and corn flakes, can cause insulin resistance and lower sperm count.
23. White Rice
White rice can contribute to insulin resistance and lower sperm count.
24. Fruit Juice
Fruit juice can cause insulin resistance and lower sperm count due to its high sugar content.
25. Low Fiber Foods
Foods that are low in fiber, like white bread and pasta, can cause insulin resistance and lower sperm count.
26. Ice Cream
Ice cream can be high in sugar and unhealthy fats, which can lower sperm count and contribute to other fertility problems.
27. Low-Nutrient Foods
Foods that are low in nutrients, like candy and soda, can contribute to insulin resistance and lower sperm count.
28. Junk Foods
Junk foods like chips, cookies, and snack cakes can be high in sugar and unhealthy fats, which can lower sperm count and fertility.
29. Fatty Foods
Foods that are high in unhealthy fats, like fast food and processed meat, can contribute to insulin resistance and lower sperm count.
30. Low-Protein Foods
Foods that are low in protein, like sugar and white bread, can contribute to insulin resistance and lower sperm count.