Slim Down, Sperm Up: Weight Loss Doubles Men’s Sperm Count

New research has revealed a significant connection between weight loss and improved sperm counts in men. This study sheds light on how managing body weight can positively affect male fertility. Such findings offer hope for those looking to enhance their reproductive health through lifestyle changes.

Scientists at the University of Copenhagen conducted a study involving 56 men aged between 18 and 65. All participants had body mass indices (BMIs) ranging from 32 to 43, placing them well above the healthy range. The men were placed on a strict 800-calorie diet for two months to assess the impact of weight loss on sperm quality.

After eight weeks, men who lost at least 8 pounds saw a 41% increase in their sperm counts. Furthermore, those who maintained their weight loss for a year experienced a doubling of their sperm counts. These substantial improvements highlight the potential benefits of sustained weight management on male reproductive health.

Lead study author Professor Signe Torekov expressed surprise at the significant improvement in semen quality linked to weight loss. She emphasized that this was the first long-term randomized study to demonstrate such a clear connection. Torekov and her colleague, Professor Romain Barrès, work at the Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research.

The men in the study lost an average of 36 pounds, which led to a 50% increase in sperm concentration and a 40% rise in sperm count. A normal sperm count is considered to be 15 million or more swimmers per milliliter of semen. These findings are particularly important given the long-term decline in sperm quality observed since the 1970s.

In addition to the Copenhagen study, research from the University of Worcester in England found that high-protein diets may increase the risk of male infertility. The study showed that diets rich in meat can lower testosterone levels by 37%, advising men to reduce their intake of chicken, beef, and lamb to improve sperm counts.

The connection between weight loss and improved sperm counts underscores the broader health benefits of maintaining a healthy weight. These studies highlight the importance of balanced diets and lifestyle changes in promoting male fertility. By managing weight effectively, men may not only enhance their overall health but also boost their reproductive capabilities.