Sperm quality: physical activity

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Extract from the article: In Togo, health authorities estimate that a large proportion of men suffer from varying degrees of fertility problems, particularly poor or deteriorating sperm quality. Tobacco, alcohol, a sedentary lifestyle, junk food and a number of chemical produ

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In Togo, health authorities estimate that a large proportion of men suffer from varying degrees of fertility problems, particularly poor or deteriorating sperm quality. Tobacco, alcohol, a sedentary lifestyle, junk food and a number of chemical products are all suspected. Fortunately, a healthy lifestyle helps to promote healthy sperm production.  Spanish scientists at the Universidad de Córdoba have established a link between moderate physical activity and improved sperm quality in men.  According to the study, published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology, sport alters sex hormone levels, putting the body in better conditions to produce male semen. Men who engage in moderate or vigorous physical activity or sport for at least 1 hour a day have significantly higher sperm concentrations than those who are sedentary.

Physical activity also increases sperm concentration. According to the results of a study published by Harvard researchers in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, men who exercise for more than 15 hours a week have a sperm concentration 73% higher than those who exercise for less than 5 hours. Sportsmen had a higher proportion of normal gametes, which were faster overall.For the authors, the explanation lies in the hormonal environment in which the body evolves. Moderate physical activity increases levels of LH, FSH, testosterone and the testosterone/cortisol ratio, providing a more favorable environment for sperm production. In the same way, a sedentary lifestyle or lack of physical exercise will « play down » sperm quality and thus reduce male fertility.In short, too much screen time and not enough exercise will significantly affect sperm count and shape. Conversely, and this is the most recent finding, regular exercise can increase a man's sperm count, and therefore improve his chances of conceiving. Too much sport kills sperm, so exercise in moderation.

Jean ELI