Mediterranean Diet and Male Fertility

Abstract

Diet has an impact on male reproductive potential, but few studies have focused on the specific impact of food groups or dietary patterns on fertility. Male reproductive health, as indicated by improved semen parameters and increased chances of conceiving, is associated with the Mediterranean diet, while the Western diet is considered a risk factor for male infertility. The potential mechanisms that may explain the impact of these diets on semen quality are still largely unknown. However, numerous studies suggest that nutritional interventions are crucial for the preservation and improvement of male fertility. This review aims to summarize the most recent evidence on the influence of components of the Mediterranean diet on sperm parameters. Unlike other risk factors, dietary modulation represents a great opportunity for improving overall health and can also be an important tool in recommendations for male reproductive health.

Keywords

• Mediterranean diet
• male fertility
• sperm quality parameters
• nutrition