Male fertility is on the decline worldwide, with sperm counts falling by nearly 60% since 1973. While there are a number of factors that may be contributing to this decline, certain unhealthy habits can also play a role.
Here are five unhealthy habits that may be harming your sperm:
1. Smoking
Smoking is one of the worst things you can do for your sperm. Cigarette smoke contains over 7,000 chemicals, many of which are harmful to sperm. Smoking can damage sperm DNA, reduce sperm count, and impair sperm motility.
2. Heavy alcohol consumption
Heavy alcohol consumption can also damage sperm and reduce fertility. Alcohol can interfere with the production of testosterone, a hormone that is essential for sperm production. Alcohol can also damage sperm DNA and reduce sperm count.
3. Drug use
Certain drugs, such as marijuana, cocaine, and anabolic steroids, can also harm sperm. Marijuana can reduce sperm count and motility. Cocaine can damage sperm DNA and reduce sperm count. Anabolic steroids can interfere with testosterone production and reduce sperm count.
4. Obesity
Obesity is another major risk factor for male infertility. Obese men are more likely to have lower sperm counts and lower quality sperm. Obesity can also lead to hormonal imbalances that can interfere with sperm production.
5. Overheating
The testicles need to be kept cool in order to produce healthy sperm. Overheating the testicles, such as by wearing tight underwear or spending too much time in a hot tub, can damage sperm production.
What can you do to improve your sperm health?
There are a number of things you can do to improve your sperm health and fertility, including:
- Quit smoking.
- Limit your alcohol intake.
- Avoid using drugs.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Avoid overheating your testicles.
- Eat a healthy diet.
- Get regular exercise.
- Get enough sleep.
- Manage stress.
If you are concerned about your fertility, talk to your doctor. They can test your sperm health and offer advice on how to improve your chances of conceiving.
Additional tips for improving sperm health:
- Wear loose-fitting clothing.
- Avoid hot baths and saunas.
- Take breaks from sitting for long periods of time.
- Use a laptop computer on a desk or lap tray to avoid keeping it on your lap.
- Keep your testicles cool when showering or taking a bath.
- Avoid exposure to environmental toxins, such as pesticides and herbicides.
- Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Limit your intake of processed foods and sugary drinks.
- Get regular checkups and screenings to identify and treat any underlying health conditions.
By following these tips, you can help to improve your sperm health and fertility.
