What is the Best Food for Men to Consume During Fertility Preparation?

Preparing for pregnancy is not just a matter for women. Pregnancy occurs when sperm and egg are normally combined. However, in reality, many infertile couples have issues with the male partner. Poor sperm quality and low sperm count can affect fertility and reduce the chances of pregnancy. During the preparation for pregnancy, it is essential to undergo comprehensive prenatal examinations and eat foods that are beneficial for pregnancy, such as eggs, dairy products, meat, and vegetables. Let's take a look at what men should eat during pregnancy preparation:

1. Adequate and high-quality protein can ensure the quantity and quality of sperm. High-quality protein can be converted into arginine in the body, which is a necessary component for sperm formation. Eating foods rich in arginine can improve sperm quality. Foods containing high amounts of arginine include eggs, dairy products, walnuts, peanuts, beef, chicken, and shrimp. However, it is important to note that although protein is good, excessive intake should be avoided to maintain a balanced diet and good nutritional status.

2. Minerals and trace nutrients play an important role in male fertility. Elements such as zinc, manganese, and selenium are involved in improving sperm motility and reproductive physiological processes such as fertilization. During pregnancy preparation, a lack of zinc in men can reduce libido and sperm count. Therefore, to increase sperm production, foods rich in zinc should be consumed. Such foods include oysters, chicken, pork liver, pork, fish, egg yolks, and shellfish. The daily intake of zinc should be approximately 10-20mg. Selenium deficiency can reduce sperm motility, and selenium-rich foods include seafood, animal viscera, eggs, lean meat, and sesame. Manganese deficiency can lead to impaired sperm maturation and reduced sperm count. Foods rich in magnesium include soybeans, baked potatoes, walnut kernels, oatmeal, macaroni, leafy vegetables, and seafood.

3. Vitamins are not only components of sperm production but also protect the male reproductive system. Excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) can lead to abnormal sperm structure and function, which is an important factor causing male infertility. Vitamin E can protect the structure and function of sperm by counteracting membrane lipid peroxidation caused by ROS. Studies by Schmid et al. have found that increased intake of vitamin E can significantly reduce sperm DNA damage, especially in older men. Antioxidants and trace elements can protect against sperm DNA damage caused by aging. Foods rich in vitamin E include lettuce, cabbage, cauliflower, tomatoes, spinach, lean meat, dairy products, eggs, animal liver, corn, coix seed, and brown rice.