Walnuts Improve Sperm Quality In Men: Study
Research published in the recent issue of Biology of Reproduction Papers-in-Press reports that 75 grams (approximately 2.5 ounces) of walnuts consumed per day improved sperm vitality, motility, and morphology (normal forms) in a group of healthy young men between 21-35 years of age. It was reported by the California Walnut Commission.
These findings are of particular interest to the 70 million couples worldwide who experience sub-fertility or infertility. In fact, 30 – 50% of these cases are attributed to the male partner, and in the United States the prevalence of men seeking help for fertility is estimated at ~3.3 – 4.7 million.
This research suggests that walnuts provide key nutrients that may be essential in male reproductive health. According to Professor Wendie Robbins, who led the research at the University of California, Los Angeles, School of Nursing, “the positive finding of walnuts on sperm may be a result of their unique nutrient profile.”
[ Also Read: Sex Life Survey Gives a Peek Beneath the Sheets ]The young men eating walnuts in the study conducted by Dr. Robbins experienced improved blood lipid profiles which reinforces these previous studies and provides one more reason to include walnuts in the daily diet.
This randomized, parallel two-group dietary intervention trial evaluated the effect of 75 grams of walnuts/day on semen quality. The study included 117 healthy young men who routinely eat a Western-style diet.
Approximately half consumed the 75 grams of walnuts per day for 12 weeks, while the remaining half served as the control group. After 12 weeks, compared to the control group, the walnut group experienced improvement in sperm vitality, motility, and morphology – key components in male fertility.
