When fertility is discussed, there is a tendency to assume that the problem lies with the female. However, it is increasingly common for males to have low sperm counts or poor sperm quality with modern lifestyles. Simple changes to lifestyle such as losing weight, taking more exercise and wearing looser underwear can see the man’s sperm count and quality increase. Many studies have shown that several foods can be eaten to boost sperm count and increase their partner’s chances of becoming pregnant.
If you and your partner have been having regular sexual intercourse for over a year, but she has failed to become pregnant, it would suggest that there may be a problem. Speaking to your doctor should be your first step. You may get referred to a fertility clinic in Bangkok that does semen analysis, and should a problem be identified, the doctor will discuss the options available. Lifestyle changes and eating foods that can boost sperm count might be recommended, so we will look at some foods known to increase sperm count in this article.
Asparagus: Asparagus is a vegetable that you can find in most markets and supermarkets in Thailand. It is commonly found in Thai and western dishes and is not only delicious but packed with vitamins A, B9, and K. It also contains selenium which boosts semen and what’s even better, you only need to consume three or four spears eaten for it to have an impact.
Avocado: Avocados are a fruit that is grown in Northern Thailand, so again, readily available. It is a fashionable product rich in essential fatty acids, potassium and magnesium, along with vitamins B6, B9, C, E and K. Avocados can be used in salads, sandwiches, smoothies or as dip such as guacamole.
Bananas: Bananas are almost a staple of the Thai diet and are frequently eaten raw or included in smoothies. They are rich in vitamins A, B1 and C and help the body produce stronger and healthier sperm cells when consumed daily. These vitamins are essential for boosting sperm count, and bananas are an excellent source of the enzyme Bromelain, improving sperm count and quality. Bromelain is an enzyme that is not found in many foods, so adding bananas to your diet is a great solution.
Berries: There is no need to worry too much about which berries you opt for as all berries are packed with antioxidants, folate, potassium and magnesium. They are also high in vitamins C and K and can be eaten as an alternative to sweets as they are low in sugar. It would be best if you aimed to consume about 120g (1 Cup) per day.
Dark Chocolate: You will not often hear anyone in the medical profession telling you to eat more chocolate! However, on this occasion, we will do. Still, it is important to understand we are only talking about dark chocolate and not milk chocolate and stress it should be consumed in moderation. It is loaded with an amino acid known to increase sperm counts and volume, L-Arginine HCI.
Eggs: Another food available in a plentiful supply is eggs that are high in protein, which is needed in sperm production. They have also been proven to increase sperm motility and protect sperm from free radicals. Regular consumption of eggs will make your sperm healthier and more robust.
Maca Roots: Maca Roots are not as easy to come by as many of the other items on our list, but you can find them in health food shops and some supermarkets stocking large amounts of foreign foodstuffs. The herb is believed to improve motility and increase semen volume.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is said to be the healthiest and most nutritious of all the oils, not to mention that it tastes great! It is high in Omega 9 fatty acid, oleic and vitamin E. It will also improve your daily consumption of essential fatty acids, so try to aim for two tablespoons of olive oil a day which can be added to a salad.
Oysters: We have all heard that oysters are an aphrodisiac and whether this is true, we will probably never know. However, we know that they are high in zinc and selenium, along with being high in vitamin B12, which has a multitude of health benefits. It would help if you aimed for wild oysters rather than farmed to gain the maximum benefits.
Pumpkin Seeds: Although we have focused more on sperm count, it is vital to appreciate the role that testosterone plays in fertility. Pumpkin seeds are high in phytosterol, which boosts testosterone and also increases sperm count. They are also packed with Omega-3, which improves circulation and increases semen volume.
Tomatoes: Most of us probably already knew that this is a fruit that is packed with goodness and an excellent source of vitamins A, C and K, but how many knew they were good for your sperm count? Ripe tomatoes contain large quantities of lycopene, and eating one medium tomato a day can dramatically increase your sperm count. When combined with extra virgin olive oil, you have a delicious dish that will help to improve your sperm count and quality.
Prawns: Prawns, like lots of seafood, are high in protein and selenium, which we have recognised as essential in healthy sperm and semen production. They are loaded with vitamins B3, B6, B12, E, and D. Fresh prawns are easy to come by in Thailand and a relatively cheap option.
Spinach: It is not only Popeye who benefitted from spinach but your sperm will too as it is loaded with folic acid, essential for healthy sperm development. Regular consumption of spinach will increase the strength and quality of your sperm whilst also reducing the number of abnormal sperm cells in your semen.
Walnuts: All nuts that aren’t covered in salt are beneficial for semen production, but the fat found in walnuts is the best as they contain the highest quantities of healthy fatty acids. They are also high in vitamin B6, folate, magnesium, copper, folate, protein, fibre and zinc. Try to eat one handful a day to gain the optimal benefits.