Diet is an important aspect of lifestyle to address post-operatively as clinical trials have proven that a diet high in the correct nutrients can make sperm healthier.
Here are some recognised foods for male fertility:
ZINC: found in fish, chicken, pulses, pumpkin seeds, wholegrains and eggs.
VITAMIN C: citrus fruits, peppers
FOLATE: peas, green beans, chickpeas, bananas, asparagus
CARNITINE: red meat, chicken, fish, dairy foods, avocado, eggs.
Smoking: slower, weaker sperm are found in smokers
Alcohol: studies have shown that alcohol can reduce the quality and quantity of sperm
Illegal drugs: Marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines and opiates all reduce quantity and motility, and increase abnormalities in sperm.
Heat: hot baths, saunas and steam rooms can all have a negative impact on sperm quality.
Hormones: anabolic steriods can drastically reduce fertility
Sexual lubricants: All including saliva except for vegetable based lubricants have a negative effect on sperm.
Our Advice
Follow our diet and lifestyle tips and keep your scrotum cool. Sperm production is known to decrease in the summer months so avoid prolonged activities where the scrotal temperature could be raised for long periods of time. This way you will be doing what you can to increase the chances of healthy sperm production.
If this page has raised any questions you would like answering or would just like to get in touch, please email us or ring my secretary, Bev, on
0845 9011 891 during office hours or 0800 559 3922 (evenings and weekends).
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All the information on this site does not replace the personal information that can be obtained through direct doctor/patient contact but is to help you find information about vasectomy reversals and possible outcomes.
