Where Has the Sperm Gone?

Sperm counts are dropping all across Western society. According to a meta analysis, sperm counts have dipped over 52% since 1973.

Now, that could be partly caused by our improved technology for measuring sperm counts, but researchers think it also has to do with exposure to endocrine disruptor chemicals in the environment and the fact that men just aren't as healthy as they used to be.

Oddly enough, eating more walnuts can help.

The Studies

A study was done on 117 healthy men between the ages of 21 and 35 who consumed Western style diets. The group that ate 75 grams of walnuts daily experienced improvement in sperm vitality, motility, and morphology. No changes were seen in the group that avoided tree nuts. There was also a decrease in sperm with chromosomal abnormalities in the walnut group which was associated with levels of alpha-linolenic acid.

Another study on older guys showed that walnuts have a protective effect when it came to prostate and vascular status.

So, Why Walnuts?

Walnuts are loaded with ideal amounts of nutrients that correlate with male health and vitality, including alpha-linolenic acid, magnesium, selenium, and zinc. The latter three minerals have been associated with increased serum testosterone levels and sperm production and quality. (Note: You can also supplement them with Elitepro™ Minerals.)

So have a serving of walnuts every day. Your nuts and other manly bits will thank you.

References

1. Levine, H., Temporal trends in sperm count: a systematic review and meta-regression analysis. Human Reproduction Update, 1-14.
2. Robbins, (2012). Walnuts Improve Semen Quality in Men Consuming a Western-Style Diet: Randomized Control Dietary Intervention Trial 1. Biology of Reproduction,87(4).
3. Spaccarotella, (2008). The effect of walnut intake on factors related to prostate and vascular health in older men. Nutrition Journal, 7(1).