A U.S. nutrition consortium today released updated dietary recommendations aimed at men seeking to improve fertility, calling for increased consumption of antioxidants and omega‑3 fatty acids, while significantly reducing ultra‑processed foods. The guidance comes from a five-year study published July 15 in the American Journal of Men’s Health, which found that men who adopted these nutritional habits showed marked improvement in sperm quality.
The consortium’s recommendations emphasize a shift toward a more plant-forward diet—rich in fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, low-fat dairy, and lean proteins such as poultry and shellfish. These foods are high in omega‑3s (found in fatty fish, walnuts, flaxseeds), essential vitamins (E, C, D, folate), zinc, selenium, and coenzyme Q10—all of which are associated with improved sperm count, motility, morphology, and DNA integrity.
Crucially, the guidelines highlight the importance of reducing consumption of ultra-processed foods—including packaged snacks, sugary drinks, refined carbohydrates, processed meats, and fried foods—due to growing evidence linking them to lower semen quality . Men in the study following lower intake of ultra-processed foods showed notably healthier sperm vitality and structure.
“This guidance is the first of its kind to offer evidence-based dietary targets specifically to enhance male reproductive health,” said the lead researcher. The recommendations align with prior observational studies demonstrating strong associations between Mediterranean-style diets and better sperm parameters, as well as adverse effects related to saturated fats, trans-fats, processed meats, caffeine, alcohol, and sugary beverages.
Medical professionals are urging wider adoption of the guidelines. Dr. Emma Johnson, a reproductive endocrinologist, noted: “Men’s dietary patterns were typically underemphasized in fertility counselling. These new, five-year study–based recommendations provide actionable strategies to legitimately support sperm health.”
Men who adhered to the dietary shifts during the trial experienced significant gains in sperm concentration and motility—two critical factors for conception—compared to control participants. The nutrition consortium is now calling for more randomized controlled trials to further validate these findings and explore potential impacts on actual pregnancy outcomes.
The study also underscored lifestyle components such as maintaining healthy weight, engaging in regular moderate exercise, reducing alcohol and caffeine, and avoiding smoking—all complementary to dietary change.
In conclusion, these new guidelines offer a simple yet scientifically grounded framework: increase whole, nutrient-rich foods—especially antioxidants and omega‑3s—while curbing ultra-processed foods. As more fertility clinics begin to integrate this guidance into men’s preconception care, experts say today marks a turning point in addressing male fertility nutrition.
