Connection Between Obesity and Low Sperm Count in Men

A lot of men worry about their weight having an impact on their fertility. The sperm count is one of the primary parameters for determining fertility among men. This is why there are so many queries about how to increase sperm count in semen. Modern lifestyle conditions are among the main reasons for low sperm count. In fact, male obesity is closely linked with infertility.  

What is Low Sperm Count? 

Sperm count refers to the density of sperms in the semen. Normal spermatozoa count means at least 1.5 crore sperms are present per millilitre of semen. Anything below that is considered a low sperm count or oligospermia in medical terms. 

Rise of Obesity in India 

A study by Lancet revealed that obesity is rapidly increasing in India. Over 44 million women and 26 million men of 20 years or above are obese. Shockingly, 12.5 million children (ages ranging between 5 and 19) were found obese. The numbers are alarmingly high and a concern, as obesity is among the top causes of oligospermia globally. Men suffering from obesity are 42% more likely to have a low sperm count, while overweight men have an 11% higher chance of developing oligospermia. Obesity may also result in azoospermia, which is the complete absence of sperm in the semen. 

The Indian Diet and Its Role in Obesity 

The Indian diet includes a variety of vegetables, grains, fruits, and herbs. However, being an agricultural country, grains like wheat and rice, rule the plate. A grain-heavy diet is unsuitable for those who have a more sedentary lifestyle. Processed foods and low protein content, combined with little physical activity, have led to a rise in obesity in males and females across the country.  

How Obesity Affects the Sperm Count 

Male obesity can cause many problems, resulting in infertility among men: 

Hormonal Imbalances 

Testosterone is a critical hormone for producing healthy sperms. Fat cells are known to affect the testosterone levels by turning this hormone into a form of oestrogen or leptin, causing a low sperm count.  

Heat Regulation 

Obesity may lead to inflammation in the testicles. Poor heat regulation affects the sperm count and quality in obese men, causing oligospermia.  

Oxidative Stress 

Obesity, combined with poor lifestyle choices, such as junk food, smoking, and excessive drinking, causes oxidative stress (OS) in the body. OS is the imbalance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants. While it does not directly impact the sperm count, it causes low viability and poor sperm function, leading to infertility in obese males.  

Insulin Resistance and Metabolic Syndrome 

Increased visceral fat (fat in the liver, pancreas and other internal organs) may cause insulin resistance. Inadequate insulin levels interfere with testicular pathways, through which follicle-stimulating hormones reach the scrotum, affecting sperm generation. High insulin affects the body’s metabolism and impairs sperm growth, resulting in a low sperm count.   

How to Manage Weight and Improve Sperm Count 

Wondering how to enhance male fertility? Maintaining a healthy weight is a good starting point. Here are some tips to manage your weight and increase the sperm count.  

Dietary Changes 

The key is to maintain a balanced diet, with lots of vegetables and lentils, instead of focussing on grains. Micronutrients, such as zinc, vitamin A, and selenium, play a significant role in bringing the spermatozoa count to a normal range in men. Foods, such as asparagus, avocados, bell peppers, berries, dark chocolate, flax seeds, spinach, and kiwis, can be of great help in improving the sperm count. Building a regular eating pattern also helps to boost the metabolic rate and nutrient absorption.  

Physical Activity 

Include 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity in your routine. Start with walking and light exercises at least thrice a week or getting 30 minutes of active time every day and build from there.  

Lifestyle Modifications 

Did you know that lack of quality sleep can lead to obesity? This is because it reduces your metabolic rate. Busy schedules increase screentime and high stress levels affect sleep quality. Lifestyle choices, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug abuse, and eating packaged and fast foods, also cause obesity, which increases infertility among men. Making better lifestyle choices, with a proper sleep schedule, increased water intake, and controlling addictions can help improve the sperm count. 

Monitoring and Professional Guidance 

Professional guidance from fertility experts can help you manage obesity and a low sperm count. They can diagnose the underlying causes and suggest lifestyle and dietary changes to increase sperm count. A fertility expert may also advise you on oligospermia treatments, like hormonal therapy. If you have been trying to conceive or lose weight for over 6 months, it is time to seek professional help.  

Consult fertility specialists at Oasis Fertility to improve your reproductive health. You can search for a fertility clinic near you or simply begin a live chat here. You can also call 1800-3001-1000 for immediate assistance. 

FAQs on Obesity & Low Sperm Count 

Q: Can losing weight improve sperm? 

A: Yes, losing weight can definitely help improve your sperm count. Extra weight, especially around your belly, can mess with your hormones, especially testosterone, which is important for sperm production. By eating healthier and staying active, you can boost your sperm count and overall fertility. 

Q: Does belly fat affect sperm count? 

A: Yes, belly fat can lower your sperm count. It affects your hormones, reducing testosterone and increasing oestrogen, which isn’t good for sperm production. It can also lead to other health issues like insulin resistance that can make things worse. Losing belly fat through exercise and a balanced diet can help get your sperm count back to normal. 

Q: Can obese men father children? 

A: Yes, obese men can still father children, but being overweight may reduce fertility. Obesity can lower sperm count and affect sperm quality, but by making lifestyle changes, losing weight, and getting medical advice, you can improve your chances of having a baby. 

Q: Are overweight men infertile? 

A: Not necessarily, but being overweight does increase the risk of fertility issues. Overweight men are more likely to have a lower sperm count or poor sperm quality, which can make it harder to conceive. However, staying active, eating right, and making healthy lifestyle choices can help improve fertility.