As is well known, it is necessary to supplement folic acid during pregnancy preparation, but most people only know that women need to supplement folic acid. Do you know that men also need to supplement folic acid when preparing for pregnancy? What are the benefits of this? Besides folic acid, what other nutrients are necessary to supplement?
Do men preparing for pregnancy also need to supplement with folic acid?
Yes, men preparing for pregnancy should also take folic acid supplements. Studies have shown that folic acid can affect male fertility and sperm count to some extent. Clinical studies have shown that low levels of zinc in men's bodies are an important factor leading to male infertility, and the combination of zinc sulfate and folic acid can effectively treat this condition. In addition, there is a certain relationship between sperm count and folate content. Research shows that on average, men consume 722-1500 micrograms of folic acid per day, which can reduce sperm count by 20% -30%. Therefore, men also need to supplement folic acid before preparing for pregnancy.
5 essential nutrients for men preparing for pregnancy
Protein: Protein is an important component of cells and a crucial raw material for generating sperm. Reasonably supplementing foods rich in high-quality protein is beneficial for coordinating male endocrine function and improving the quantity and quality of male sperm. High quality protein foods: deep-sea fish and shrimp, oysters, soybeans and their products, lean meat, eggs, etc.
Zinc: Zinc deficiency can cause a decrease in sperm count, an increase in abnormal sperm count, as well as a decline in sexual and reproductive function, and even infertility. Foods with high zinc content: mainly shellfish and seafood, animal organs, cereal germ, sesame, shrimp, etc.
Selenium: Selenium deficiency reduces the energy source required for sperm activity, leading to a decrease in sperm vitality. Foods with high selenium content: mainly including kelp, cuttlefish, shrimp, seaweed, etc.
Vitamins: Both vitamin A and vitamin E have the effect of delaying aging, slowing down sexual function decline, and also have good effects on sperm production and improving sperm activity. Foods containing vitamin A: carrots, corn, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, etc. Foods containing vitamin E: lettuce, cabbage, tomatoes, etc
Fat: Human sex hormones are mainly converted from cholesterol in fat, which also contains fatty acids required for sperm production. If lacking, it not only affects sperm production but may also cause a decrease in libido. Fatty foods: Meat, fish, and poultry eggs contain a high amount of cholesterol, and moderate intake is beneficial for the synthesis of sex hormones. But we should eat less pork and choose more fish and poultry, especially deep-sea fish.
