THEMale fertility is closely linked to lifestyle, and in particular also to nutrition. The latest alert comes from Italian Society of Andrology on the occasion of the VI Nature, Environment, Man (NAU) Congress. According to studies, excessive consumption of protein bars and drinks or a diet too rich in proteins could damage male fertility and impact the number and good quality of sperm.
Male fertility: what is the maximum amount of protein to consume?
High-protein bars and drinks could damage sperm. In fact, according to SIA Andrologists, «Excess protein in the diet is as dangerous as its deficiency». But what is the correct protein intake to avoid putting fertility at risk?”. It is essential to follow a balanced diet with a quantity of 54-63 grams of protein per day for normal weight, healthy men.
Under the lens of specialists, not only a high protein intake deriving from natural food sources, but above all i foods fortified with proteins which are very often found on supermarket shelves: from enriched water, to “pro” snacks and sweets.
Male fertility can also depend on eating style (Getty Images)
Because an excess of proteins can alter sperm
«A healthy, balanced diet, including adequate protein intake, is important for overall reproductive health. There sperm production in fact, it requires an adequate supply of essential amino acids obtained from food protein sources. When these are lacking, the number and quality of sperm can be reduced. But if the deficiency has negative effectsalso theexcess could constitute a risk factor for fertility. This is explained by Alessandro Palmieri, SIA president and professor of Urology at the Federico II University of Naples.
«Excessive protein consumption does not necessarily translate into an increase in sperm count. On the contrary, ahigh protein intake could increase oxidative stress in the body, with a consequent negative impact on the concentration and quality of sperm. However, individual responses to protein intake may vary, as the geneticsit lifestylethe health conditions in general, they can influence how high protein intake affects the good quality of semen.”
Fertility and balanced diet
«When it comes to fertility, it is essential to follow a balanced diet – he underlines Serena Capurso, nutritional biologist of the SIA scientific commission -. For healthy men under the age of 65, the daily amount of protein needed by the body is 0.9 g per kilogram of body weight. A normal weight individual, therefore, needs approximately 54-63 grams of protein per day – he continues -.
Too much protein? Deficiency of vitamins and minerals
With the introduction of “pro” foods, the amount of protein consumed rises far above these numbers, with consequences not only on fertility, but also on all-round male health. A high-protein diet can lead to imbalances of essential nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals. By focusing exclusively on proteins, we risk neglecting other important substances, with long-term health consequences. Furthermore, an excess of proteins increases the loaded with uric acid and can predispose to kidney problems. But not only that. Consuming a large number of “pro” foods also contributes to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and of osteoporosis: too many proteins alter calcium metabolism causing bone malabsorption.”
Proteins yes, but in moderation and of high quality
“Although protein intake plays a critical role in sperm count, moderation and a balanced diet are essential to maintaining optimal sperm health. Men should therefore aim for a complete diet that includes protein sources of high qualityhow lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy products and plant-based proteins. And without excess in added foods and without forgetting all the other nutrients fundamental for health”, he concludes Fabrizio Palumbo, urologist and andrologist at the Urology Complex Operating Unit of the “Di Venere” hospital in Bari.
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