Male infertility is a growing concern worldwide, with 1 in every 6 couples facing fertility and fertility problems and traditionally, fertility concerns have been primarily associated with women, however, There are increasing efforts to raise awareness about male reproductive issues. According to recent research, male infertility occurs in 30-50 percent of cases and while there are medications available to address this challenge, there are also natural ways to increase fertility.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Aswati Nair, fertility specialist at Nova IVF Fertility in Rajouri Garden, Delhi, shared, “The most common causes of infertility include conditions like varicocele, smoking, radiation, urinary tract infection and nutritional deficiency. Are. Additionally, environmental factors and oxidative stress adversely affect one’s fertility rate. Oxidative stress affects about 50 percent of men struggling with infertility. A 2019 human reproductive science study indicates that oxidative stress reduces sperm motility, increases sperm DNA damage, as well as increases the risk of miscarriage and genetic abnormalities.
How does oxidative stress occur?
Dr. Aswati Nair answered, “Free radicals are unstable molecules that are constantly formed in the body and if the levels become too high they are harmful to the DNA in cells and tissues, hence they are associated with risk factors such as cancer, diabetes and heart disease. Is linked to various diseases. While free radicals play an important role in supporting cell division and helping immune cells fight infection, an excess of these molecules, also known as reactive oxygen species (ROS), can lead to oxidative stress (OS). Becomes the reason. The body naturally produces antioxidant compounds to counteract free radicals. However, an imbalance between ROS and antioxidants results in OS, which damages sperm DNA and hinders fertilization by disrupting normal sperm function. Therefore, it is important to maintain the balance by neutralizing ROS with antioxidants for normal sperm functionality.
Major role of antioxidants
According to Dr. Ashwati Nair, antioxidants are substances or compounds that neutralize free radicals, interrupting the chain reactions that result in oxidative stress. “By restoring balance and eliminating reactive oxygen species (ROS), antioxidants improve motility and morphology and prevent DNA damage in sperm,” he explains. These beneficial compounds are prevalent in food, especially plant-based sources like fruits and vegetables. Key vitamins and minerals including vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc and selenium act as antioxidants. Thus, these essential compounds are important in helping the body maintain the balance between free radicals and antioxidants, promoting reproductive health and overall well-being.
DT Nisha, consultant dietitian and nutritionist at Motherhood Hospitals, Gurgaon, suggests the following antioxidant-rich foods that are beneficial for your sperm health –
- nuts and seeds: Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, selenium and antioxidants, walnuts can help improve sperm quality, motility and morphology. Whereas, almonds are rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect sperm cells from oxidative damage and may improve sperm motility. Pumpkin seeds, on the other hand, contain zinc, which is essential for testosterone production and sperm formation, as well as antioxidants like vitamin E and selenium, and Brazil nuts are an excellent source of selenium, a mineral that helps with sperm production and motility. Plays an important role and helps in. Protect sperm from oxidative stress.
- Turmeric: A common spice in Indian cuisine, turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties that may benefit sperm health.
- Ginger: Another key spice in Asian cooking, ginger contains gingerol, a bioactive compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that may support reproductive health.
- Green Tea: Green tea, widely consumed in Asian countries, is rich in catechins, powerful antioxidants that may help protect sperm from oxidative damage and improve sperm quality.
- leafy greens: Vegetables like spinach, fenugreek and broccoli are rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, beta-carotene and lutein, which may help protect sperm from oxidative stress and improve overall reproductive health.
- Jamun: Berries like strawberries, blueberries and raspberries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants like anthocyanins, which may help improve sperm quality and motility.
- Garlic: A common ingredient in Indian cooking, garlic contains allicin, a compound with antioxidant properties that may help improve sperm quality and protect against oxidative damage.
