healthy body tips

Infertility affects every 1 in 6 couples. About 90% of male infertility problems are caused by the failure to produce enough sperm. Here is some advice on how to make lifestyle and dietary changes to boost your sperm count without resorting to medication or surgical procedures.

Electromagnetic radiation emitted by mobile phones is thought to have an effect on the health of a man's sperm. Research from the European Society of Human Reproduction & Embryology suggests that men who carry their phones in their pockets on standby have a third less sperm than those who keep their phones switched on. This research is not definitive, and needs to be backed up with further studies but consider keeping your phone in a different pocket in the meantime.

The sun has been shown to boost men's testosterone levels, which must be kept nicely topped up to maintain healthily sperm production. The sunshine also reduces levels of the hormone melatonin in the body, which suppresses fertility.

Maintaining a healthy weight is an important factor in fertility. Having a BMI of below 20 will reduce fertility whilst having a figure above 25 means your sperm count will be 22% lower than normal. To calculate your BMI divide your weight in Kg by your height in Metres squared.

Foods rich in zinc and folic acid like sardines, broccoli and avocado are recommended to help increase fertility as they both improve sperm general health, whilst any foods rich in Vitamin A, C and E will help to repair damage done to the DNA of your sperm. Green tea is thought to boost energy levels and Ginkgo has been show to increase circulation to blood capillaries which will help to improve sexual energy and performance.

Cigarettes and other tobacco products have an adverse effect on both sperm count and sperm motility. So cutting down on smoking is a necessity if you wish to boost your sperm count. Some research suggests smoking lowers the sex drive, and that diminished blood circulation to the penis caused by smoking can cause impotence.

There is also a growing body of evidence that suggest that excessive stress levels can reduce sperm quality and quantity as a result of hormonal changes in the body. In some cases, the fear of infertility or problems conceiving a child can itself be a source of stress. Try and work out what makes you stressed, and banish, or minimize those influences from your life. Make time for more activities that de-stress you, and make sure your work-life balance is healthy. For a variety of ways to distress your life, see Videojug's film 'How to change your lifestyle to manage stress.'