It takes two
Often, when we think about the factors that can affect fertility, the focus of the conversation has primarily (and unfairly) been only about women. More studies are emerging, however, that shift that narrative, showing that the overall health and lifestyle of the male partner can play a huge part in conception. This development is a welcome one, offering men the opportunity to examine their own lifestyle and consider how they can positively impact their fertility journey.
A closer look at the numbers
More and more data support the notion that men have the ability to take an active role in preparing for conception by analyzing and adjusting their own general health and lifestyle. In fact, based on research, male partners contribute to 40% of fertility challenges in couples. Additional data from research shows that diet and exercise are key factors as well. Something as simple as obesity in male partners has shown to greatly reduce chances of conception.
How lifestyle affects fertility health
For both men and women, when we talk about lifestyle and how it affects fertility, we’re referring to general habits or routines that define someone’s overall health. These are factors that the individual usually has some degree of control over. For instance, it may be difficult to change the day-to-day realities of a stressful career, but consistent yoga practice or regular meditation may help keep that stress in check. Lifestyle choices are where men can make the most impact in their journey with their partner toward conception.
Top five lifestyle considerations for male fertility health
According to fertility specialist Randall A. Loy, M.D. in his practice he’s looking for a spirit of partnership among the men he works with, “I try to instill the same values in both men and women, I want ‘buy in’ on both sides.” This means men taking seriously the 5 lifestyle factors that are most closely tied to fertility:
- Diet - Establish a diet that is high in protein and fiber, low in simple carbohydrates. It should be primarily based on whole foods and greatly reduces the consumption of red meat, high fructose corn syrup, table sugar and artificial sweeteners.
- Weight - It’s important to maintain a weight that is at or near the defined body mass index for an individual (between 19-25 kilograms per meter squared). In simple terms—work toward maintaining a healthy body weight.
- Exercise - Make movement and fitness a daily activity. . At a minimum, men should pursue aerobic exercise, each day for at least 30 minutes.
- Alcohol & Tobacco - Studies show that the toxins in alcohol can affect fertility, so the recommendation is to greatly reduce or even abstain from drinking. According to Dr. Loy, even one cigarette can prevent sperm from doing their job, so he suggests completely avoiding all tobacco or smoking products.
- Vitamins & Supplements - Find a supplement to augment and complement a high protein diet / low carbohydrate diet. Look for one that is high in antioxidants, both B and C vitamins.
Gain An Advantage With A Holistic Approach
While minimizing unhealthy lifestyle factors related to conception is easy to understand—less red meat, less sugar, eliminating smoking and reducing alcohol—it can be more challenging to land on a clear plan to add the right nutrients to your body. NutraBloom takes some of the guesswork out of supplements with our Male Fertility Blend that is specifically designed for male partners who are focusing on their preconception health. Using only the purest, highest quality ingredient, our NutraBloom formula for men includes Coenzyme Q10 , Lycopene, L-Carnitine, and other high-antioxidant ingredients designed to promote optimal sperm health and quality. Created for male partners who are ready to start a family, or are undergoing fertility treatments, this is our most-recommended supplement for men.
