Tuesday 24 February 2015

Which are the Most Fertile Days to get Pregnant

Pregnant woman in the garden
 


For a lot of women trying to get pregnant,the best thing to do would be to look up the important and "pregnancy-friendly" days on the calendar.


Ovulation is the most fertile period to get pregnant in. A woman is most fertile when she is ovulating and at least two-three days post ovulation. Fertile days to get pregnant vary from one person to another. Most women ovulate on the 14th day before the beginning of the next menstrual cycle. To know when you'd be your most fertile to get pregnant, you must be attentive to the changes taking place in your body. Here are some signs of ovulation.

Release of Hormones and Cervical Mucus

    When a woman is ovulating, a lot of hormones begin to be released in the body, trying to prepare it for pregnancy. Just before ovulation, the estrogen level rises and prepares the uterus for implantation. One of the first signs of ovulation is a change in the quantity and quality of certical mucus. When the cervical mucus is thin and flowing out in increased amount, you are at your best time to get pregnant.
      Therefore, the best way to determine ovulation is to keep track of vaginal discharge. As soon as the ovary releases egg, you will notice colourless and slippery vaginal discharge. If you notice these changes when you are approaching the 14th day before your expected period, it is time to try and get pregnant. 

      Change in Position of the Cervix

      1. Another sign of ovulation is the position of your cervix. During the entire phase of menstrual cycle, the cervix is close, firm and positioned low. But, during ovulation, the pelvis begins to soften and open up slightly. This is because of an increase in estrogen levels.

      Change in Basal Body Temperature

        Another indication of fertile days is a change in the basal body temperature. During ovulation, the body's temperature rises by 0.5 to 1.6 degrees. Being low in intensity, this change in temperature usually goes unnoticed. If you want to know whetheryou are in your most fertile days of menstrual cycle, then use basal thermometers to detect body temperature.
         You can even use calendar method to keep track of your ovulation period.

        If your menstrual cycle is of 28 days, you are more likely to ovulate around the 14th day post beginning of last menstrual period. This may, however, not be true for all the women as the span of cycle does vary in most cases. Therefore, the best way to increase your chances to get pregnant is to have sex on a daily basis (between 12th to 16th days of menstrual cycle).  If you have long a menstrual cycle .i.e. of 32 days then you are likely to ovulate on 18th day post beginning of your period. 

        H1N1 Flu Virus (Swine Flu)

        H1N1 flu is also known as swine flu. It's called swine flu because in the past, the people who caught it had direct contact with pigs. That changed several years ago, when a new virus emerged that spread among people who hadn't been near pigs.
        In 2009, H1N1 was spreading fast around the world, so the World Health Organization called it a pandemic. Since then, people have continued to get sick from swine flu, but not as many.
        While swine flu isn't as scary as it seemed a few years ago, it's still important to protect yourself from getting it. Like seasonal flu, it can cause more serious health problems for some people. The best protection is to get a flu vaccine, or flu shot, every year. Swine flu is one of the viruses included in the vaccine.

        Causes of Swine Flu

        Swine flu is contagious, and it spreads in the same way as the seasonal flu. When people who have it cough or sneeze, they spray tiny drops of the virus into the air. If you come in contact with these drops or touch a surface (such as a doorknob or sink) that an infected person has recently touched, you can catch H1N1 swine flu.
        Despite the name, you can't catch swine flu from eating bacon, ham, or any other pork product.

        Swine Flu Symptoms

        People who have swine flu can be contagious one day before they have any symptoms, and as many as 7 days after they get sick. Kids can be contagious for as long as 10 days.
        Most symptoms are the same as seasonal flu. They can include:
        • cough
        • fever
        • sore throat
        • stuffy or runny nose
        • body aches
        • headache
        • chills
        • fatigue
        Like seasonal flu, swine flu can lead to more serious complications, including pneumonia and respiratory failure. And it can make conditions like diabetes or asthma worse. If you have symptoms like shortness of breath, severe vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, or confusion, call your doctor or 911 right away.

        Tests for Swine Flu


        It's hard to tell whether you have swine flu or seasonal flu, because most symptoms are the same. People with swine flu may be more likely to feel nauseous and throw up than people who have seasonal flu. But a lab test is the only way to know for sure. Even a rapid flu test you can get in your doctor's office won't tell you for sure.

        Health Benefits of Corn




        Health benefits of corn include controlling diabetes, prevention of heart ailments, lowering hypertension and prevention of neural-tube defects at birth. Corn or maize is one of the most popular cereals in the world and forms the staple food in many countries, including the United States and  many African countries.
        The kernels of corn are what hold the majority of corn’s nutrients, and are the most commonly consumed parts of the vegetable. The kernels can come in multiple colors, depending on where the corn is grown and what species or variety they happen to be. Another genetic variant, called sweetcorn, has more sugar and less starch in the nutritive material.

        NUTRITIONAL VALUE OF CORN

        Corn not only provides the necessary calories for healthy, daily metabolism, but is also a rich source of vitamins A, B, E and many minerals. Its high fiber content ensures that it plays a significant role in the prevention of digestive ailments like constipation and hemorrhoids as well as colorectal cancer. The antioxidants present in corn also act as anti-carcinogenic agents and prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

        HEALTH BENEFITS OF CORN

        Corn provides many health benefits due to the presence of quality nutrients within. Besides being a delicious addition to any meal, it is also rich in phytochemicals, and it provides protection against a number of chronic diseases.  Some of the well-researched and widespread health benefits of corn are listed below.
        of calories and is a staple among dietary habits in many populations. Thecalorific content of corn is 342 calories per 100 grams, which is among the highest for cereals. It is why corn is often turned to for quick weight gain, and combined with the ease and flexibility of growing conditions for corn, the high calorie content makes it vital for the survival of dozens of agricultural-based nations.

        Reduces risk of hemorrhoids and colorectal cancer: The fiber content of one cup of corn amounts to 18.4% of the daily recommended amount. This aids in alleviating digestive problems such as constipation and hemorrhoids, as well as lowering the risk of colon cancer due to corn being a whole-grain. Fiber has long been promoted as a way to reduce colon risk, but insufficient and conflicting data exists for fiber’s relationship withpreventing cancer, although whole-grain consumption, on the whole, has been proven to reduce that risk. Fiber helps to bulk up bowel movements, which stimulates peristaltic motion and even stimulates the production of gastric juice and bile. It can also add bulk to overly loose stools, which can slow reduce the chances of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and diarrhea.
        Rich source of vitamins: Corn is rich in vitamin B constituents, especially Thiamin and Niacin. Thiamin is essential for maintaining nerve health and cognitive function. Niacin deficiency leads to Pellagra; a disease characterized by diarrhea, dementia and dermatitis that is commonly observed in malnourished individuals. Corn is also a good source of Pantothenic acid, which is an essential vitamin for carbohydrate, protein, and lipid metabolism in the body. Deficiency of folic acid in pregnant women can lead to the birth of underweight infants and may also result in neural tube defects in newborns. Corn provides a large percentage of the daily folate requirement, while the kernels of corn are rich in vitamin E, a natural antioxidant that is essential for growth and protection of the body from illness and disease.
        Provides necessary minerals: Corn contains abundant minerals which positively benefit the bodies in a number of ways. phosphorous, along with magnesium, manganese, zinc, iron and copper are found in all varieties of corn. It also contains trace minerals like selenium, which are difficult to find in most normal diets. Phosphorous is essential for regulating normal growth, bone health and optimal kidney functioning. Magnesium is necessary for maintaining a normal heart rate and for increasing bone strength.
        Antioxidant properties: According to studies carried out at Cornell University, corn is a rich source of antioxidants which fight cancer-causing free radicals. In fact, unlike many other foods, cooking actually increases the amount of usable antioxidants in sweet corn. Corn is a rich source of a phenolic compound called ferulic acid, an anti-carcinogenic agent that has been shown to be effective in fighting the tumors which lead to breast cancer as well as liver cancer. Anthocyanins, found in purple corn, also act as scavengers and eliminators of cancer-causing free radicals. Antioxidants have been shown to reduce many of the most dangerous forms of cancer because of their ability to induce apoptosis in cancerous cells, while leaving healthy cells unaffected. This is particularly relevant when phytochemicals are the source of the antioxidants, which is another type of chemical found in high volumes in corn.
        Protecting Your Heart: According to researchers, corn oil has been shown to have an anti-atherogenic effect on cholesterol levels, thus reducing the risk of various cardiovascular diseases. Corn oil, particularly, is the best way to increase heart health, and this is derived from the fact that corn is close to an optimal fatty acid combination. This allows omega-3 fatty acids to strip away the damaging “bad” cholesterol and replace them at the binding sites. This will reduce the chances of arteries becoming clogged, will reduce blood pressure, and decrease the change of heart attack and stroke.
        Prevents Anemia: Corn helps to prevent anemia caused by deficiency of these vitamins. Corn also has asignificant level of iron, which is one of the essential minerals needed to form new red blood cells; a deficiency in iron is one of the main cause of anemia as well.
        Lowers LDL Cholesterol: According to the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, consumption of corn husk oil lowers plasma LDL cholesterol by reducing cholesterol absorption in the body. As mentioned earlier, this reduction of LDL cholesterol does not mean a reduction in HDL cholesterol, which is considered “good cholesterol” and can have a variety of beneficial effects on the body, including the reduction of heart disease, prevention of atherosclerosis, and a general scavenger of free radicals throughout the body.
        Vitamin-A Content: Yellow corn is a rich source of beta-carotene, which forms vitamin A in the body and is essential for the maintenance of good vision and skin. Beta-carotene is a great source of vitamin-A because it is converted within the body, but only in the amounts that the body requires. Vitamin-A can be toxic if too much is consumed, so deriving vitamin-A through beta-carotene transformation is ideal. Vitamin-A will also benefit the health of skin and mucus membranes, as well as boosting the immune system.
        The amount of beta-carotene in the body that is not converted into vitamin-A acts as a very strong antioxidant, like all carotenoids, and can combat terrible diseases like cancer and heart disease. That being said, smokers need to be careful about their beta-carotene content, because smokers with high beta-carotene levels are more likely to contract lung cancer, while non-smokers with high beta-carotene content are less likely to contract lung cancer.
        Controls diabetes and hypertension: In recent decades, the world has seemed to suffer from an epidemic of diabetes. Although the exact mechanism for this cannot be pinpointed, it is generally assumed to relate to nutrition.  Eating more organic fruits and vegetables, like corn, has been thought to be a return to an older style of diet, and it has been linked to reduced signs of diabetes.  Studies have shown that the consumption of corn kernels assists in the management of non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) and is effective against hypertension due to the presence of phenolic phytochemicals in whole corn. Phytochemicals can regulate the absorption and release of insulin in the body, which can reduce the chance of spikes and drops for diabetic patients and help them maintain a more normal lifestyle.
        Cosmetic benefits:Corn starch is used in the manufacturing of many cosmetic products and may also be applied topically tosoothe skin rashes and irritation

        . Corn products can be used to replace carcinogenic petroleum products which are major components of many cosmetic preparations. Many of the traditional skin creams contain petroleum jelly as a base material, which can often block pores and make skin conditions even worse.

        How to select and store Corn

        Corn is easily available across markets all over the world. Its always good to consume fresh corn however frozen corn can also be used. While buying fresh corn make sure the husks are not dried out. Also consume fresh corns within few days to ensure good taste. For storing fresh corns you may keep the husk and store in air tight containers in refrigerator.

        QUICK IDEAS TO SERVE

        Steamed corn: Clean the fresh corns and cook them in a container filled with water. Add butter, lime, salt to the cooked corn for additional flavour.
        Soups and salads: Add cooked corn kernels to salads and soups for additional flavor. Mix chopped onion, tomato, lettuce, cooked corn kernels in a bowl. Season with salt, pepper, lime juice and olive oil.
        A Few Words of Warning: Corn does contain large amounts of fatty acid, so for people who are already at high risk for heart disease, excess corn or corn oil can dangerously exacerbate those conditions and risks. Also, corn is frequently turned into high fructose corn syrup, which is extracted from corn to use as a cheap sweetener. It  is worse than table sugar and is a cause of obesity, as well as having a negative impact on your blood sugar levels. It is found in many artificially sweetened foods and syrups, so avoid these if you want to only get the positive benefits of corn.
        Corn is a rich source of many essential nutrients and fiber. A meal rich in corn can go a long way in protecting against many diseases and ailments. So start shucking!

        SWINE FLU PRECAUTIONS

        Stay Home
        If you are sick or have any flu-like symptoms, stay home. Do not go to school or work. Swine flu symptoms may mimic those of regular flu and cold symptoms.





        Contain Your Cough
        Cough or sneeze into the crook (inside elbow) of your arm. This way you do not transfer the germs to your hands and then to every object you touch. Swine flu is very contagious, and can spread easily by touching an infected object and then touching your face. A flu mask will help you avoid infection in enclosed spaces. 

        Wash Hands Frequently
        Wash hands constantly to avoid swine flu. Anything you touch may be affected, so keeping hands clean will help you avoid infection. 

        Hand Sanitizer
        Carry hand sanitizer with you. If you have things others have touched, use your hand sanitizer to avoid swine flu infection. In addition, avoid shaking hands or other hand to hand contact whenever possible. Also avoid kissing on the cheek or other face to face contact as a greeting method. 

        Public Facilities
        Touch public handles and pens as little as possible. These are loaded with germs that may carry the swine flu virus. 

        Air Travel
        When you fly, be most diligent about following these guidelines. Transferring any flu, including swine flu, is most likely in close quarters like an airplane. 

        Clean Your Produce
        The life span of a virus is different for each and can vary from as much as 48 hours to 100 years depending on the hardiness of the virus. Although there have been no known cases of swine flu transmission through fruit and vegetable consumption, there does seem to be some concern about the possibility. The best bet is to buy locally grown fruits and vegetables if possible. Make sure you wash your fruits and vegetables with water, and soak for greater effectiveness. Washes and using chlorinated rinses have not been proven to work. So far there have been no cases of swine flu transmission through fruits and vegetable sources. 

        Avoid Crowds
        Stay out of crowds as much as possible. Close proximity to other people will heighten your chances of to get swine flu. Wear a surgical mask in areas of high traffic concentration. Try to stay at least 3-6 feet away from people. 

        Eating and Drinking
        Do not eat or drink after others without complete sanitization of containers or utensils. Swine flu can be transmitted by contact with infected eating utensils. 

        Vaccinations
        Vaccinations are not effective against the H1N1 virus. If you contract the virus get to the doctor within 36 hours and ask for Tamiflu or Relenza. These antiviral medicines will halt the progression of H1N1 or Swine flu virus. 

        Visit Your Doctor
        Get to a doctor immediately if you develop symptoms of swine flu including high fever and body aches. Swine flu can be deadly, and it is imperative to get to a physician immediately if you think you have swine flu symptoms and think you might have contracted the swine flu virus. Both Tamiflu and Relenza are antiviral medicines that are currently effective against some strains of Swine Flu. These medicines should be taken within 36 hours of flu infection for maximum effectiveness.

        Wednesday 18 February 2015

        10 Foods that Increase Your Sperm Count

        Sperm Count is one of the most important characteristics in male fertility. Research shows that in more than half of  infertility issues in couples, low sperm count is the cause. According to the World Health Organization, sperm count of more than 15 million sperms per milliliters in considered normal. In semen analysis which is a test for sperm quality to find the underlying cause of male infertility, the following parameters are measured: sperm countsperm motilitysperm morphology, volume, fructose level and pH.
        sperm-quality
        Several environmentallifestyle and medical causes can lower the sperm count significantly.
        Here is a list of the most common causes of low sperm count:
        • Drugs such as cocaine and marijuana
        • Drinking alcohol
        • Exteneded uses of computers and laptops
        • Long-term sitting, such as driving and bicycling for a long time
        • Smoking
        • Stress
        • Obesity
        • Medical issues:
        varicocele, infections, inflammation of testicles and prostate, ejaculation issues, anti-sperm antibodies, tumors, homonal imbalance, gluten intoleance and some medications.


        Exercise and a healthy diet can help you to increase your sperm count. Here we gathered a list of 10 foods that can help you to boost your sperm count :

        • Bananas

        Bananas are effective at increasing sperm count, since they contain a rare enzyme calledBromelain. Bromelain is also found in pineapples, and mostly  in their stem. Beromelain is anatural anti-inflammatory enzyme  which also boosts greater production of the male sex hormone, testosterone.
        Bananas are also a rich source of vitamins B1, A and C. These essential vitamins help the body enhance its sperm producing ability and increases stamina significantly.
        • Dark chocolate


        Dark chocolate is not just used in seduction, but it also has enormous health benefits. According to a research published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, dark chocolate can increase the feeling of attraction between two people by releasing the same endorphins that are secreted during sex.
        Dark chocolate also contains L-arginine, which is also present in red meat, nuts, spinach and lentils, whole grains,soy, seafood and eggs. This amino acid is needed for sperm production and when consumed, increases sperm count and boosts semen volume. According to The University of Michigan Health System , several months of L-arginine supplementation increases sperm count, quality, and fertility.
        L-arginine is also known to improve the dilation of blood vessels, which increases blood flow to the genitals, which can help the penis to enlarge. That’s the reason why men who consume dark chocolate everyday have reported stronger and more intense orgasms.
        • Garlic






        Garlic has the ability to increase blood flow in the body. Garlic contains a chemical called allicin. Allicin is responsible for many of garlic’s amazing health benefits including its antimicrobial, and anti-hypertension properties. This compound prevents plaques from building up in arteries and enhances blood flow to the genital area which increases the production of sperm. Garlic also contains nitric oxide synthase, or NOS, which plays an important role in a healthy erection. Garlic provides the body with selenium and vitamin B6 which are responsible for the mechanism of healthy sperm production.
        • Pomegranates

        Pomegranates are useful in problems ranging from cold and flu to low sperm count. Pomegranates contain anti-oxidants that fight a chemical in the blood which destroys sperm. This chemical is known as malondialdehyde (MDA). Malondialdehyde is also found in the semen and is associated with low sperm quality . A new study published in the International Journal of Medical Research and Health Sciences (2013)  shows that smoking increases the levels of MDA in semen and lower the sperm count in semen.
        Aother study published in Clinical Nutrition Journal  shows that daily consumption of pomegranate juice destroys free radicals and boosts sperm quality.
        • Beef

        Beef is a rich source of zinc which possesses protective properties that prevent free radicals from becoming part of sperm. Zinc stops testosterone from converting into estrogen which is responsible for low libido. According to Mayoclinic, daily consumption of 66 milligrams of zinc may increase sperm counts in subfertile men and 220 milligrams of daily zinc is helpful for sexual dysfunction in men.

        6 Ways To Boost Male Fertility Naturally

        The presence of couples unable to conceive is an increasingly common scenario in my clinic compared to two decades ago. About 15 percent of couples experience conception problems, and this percentage is growing. Infertility is defined as the absence of conception after one year of regular intercourse without the use of any contraceptive. Men are responsible for this problem at least 40 percent of the time. Where modern medicine has developed its own technical solutions for assisting infertile couples in getting pregnant, complementary medicine can also offer its own assistance in increasing male fertility. Before attempting natural remedies, it is important to rule out any underlying treatable medical conditions.



        1. Improve sperm count 

        The average sperm count is between 120 and 350 million per cubic centimeter. A low sperm count is below 40 million per cubic centimeter. Low sperm counts or poor sperm motility may be due to environmental toxins such as chemicals, radiation, drugs, heavy metal exposure, cigarette smoking, excessive alcohol use, street drug use and pollution.
        Heat can also reduce sperm production. Hot baths, sitting for long periods of time and tight-fitting underwear that constricts the testes can all elevate temperatures long enough to suppress sperm production.
        The anti-ulcer drugs cimetidine and ranitidine have both been reported to decrease sperm count and produce impotence.
        2. Reduce chemical exposure 

        The semen of the average man today has half the sperm, and of poorer quality, than 50 years ago.
        This is believed to be caused by exposure to xenoestrogens (PCBs, DDT, dioxin, other pesticides, plastics and industrial pollutants) that mimic the effects of estrogen. You can prevent or minimize the impact of xenoestrogens on your health by doing the following:

        • Avoid plastic containers for food storage, plastic bottles, wraps and utensils.
        • Use office paper products whitened without chlorine.
        • Use only non-bleached coffee filters, paper, napkins and toilet tissue to reduce dioxin exposure.
        • Avoid chlorinated tap water, chlorine bleach and other chlorinated products; use hydrogen peroxide as an alternative.
        • Eat organic food as much as possible to avoid pesticides and herbicides.
        • Avoid synthetic deodorants and cosmetics; use only organic products whenever possible.
        • Avoid animal products with a high fat content that contain hormones, especially conventional milk and dairy products, chicken, beef and pork.
        • Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
        • Avoid fried, charcoal-broiled or barbecued forms of cooking.
        • Eat lots of foods high in antioxidants (carotenes, vitamins A, C, E and selenium) such as green leafy vegetables, kale, carrots, citrus, broccoli, cauliflower and yams.
        3. Improve diet
        Getting plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes can help boost fertility. Also avoid tobacco, refined carbohydrates, coffee, tea, alcohol and foods with artificial additives.
        Maintain your ideal weight. Food deprivation in men leads to a loss of sex drive and structural changes to reproductive tissue leading to infertility.
        Obesity, on the other hand, can be associated with a low sperm count and impotence, possibly because of higher temperatures caused by excess fat near the testes.

        4. Exercise regularly 

        According to the American Society of Reproductive Medicine, regular exercise (five times a week for at least 45 minutes) and a healthy diet enhance fertility by keeping body weight at normal levels and relieving stress and anxiety.
        Excessive amounts of exercise (marathon running and associated training) can be a cause of infertility because it can lead to amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) in women and a lowered sperm count in men.
        If you are not sure what type of exercise is best for you, get yourself a personal trainer. He or she can give you an exercise program to bring your weight and fitness levels into the ideal range.

        5. Take nutritional supplements
        For men, the most important supplemental nutrients to enhance fertility are vitamin C and zinc. Vitamin C (2,000 to 6,000 milligrams daily) helps prevent sperm from clumping or sticking together, thus improving the chances for fertility.
        Zinc supplementation (100 to 200 mg daily) has been shown to increase testosterone levels, sperm count and sperm motility. High zinc sources include oysters, organ meats, lean beef, turkey, lamb, herring, wheat germ, legumes and nuts.
        Arginine is an amino acid the body produces from the digestion of protein. It is found in high amounts in the head of the sperm. Although not available as a supplement in Canada, arginine has been shown to help low sperm counts and poor motility. In high doses, arginine is also a potent dilator of arteries, leading to better erections. Food sources of arginine include nuts, chocolate, meat, poultry, fish and dairy.
        Other nutrients that have been shown to improve sperm counts include essential fatty acids (9 to 12 grams daily), chromium (1,000 mcg daily), selenium (200 mcg daily), copper (2 mg daily), vitamin E (800 IU daily), coenzyme Q10 (400 mg daily) and B-complex vitamins (50 mg daily), especially vitamin B12 (1,000 mcg daily).

        6. Try herbal helpers
        The herbs listed below may be effective for improving erections, sexual desire, blood flow to the sexual organs and general sexual health with virtually no side-effects:

        • panax ginseng (Korean ginseng): 500 milligrams, 1 to 3 capsules daily
        • saw palmetto berry: 80 mg, 1 to 2 capsules daily
        • muira puama: 500 mg, 3 to 6 capsules daily
        • ginkgo biloba extract: 250 mg, 1 to 3 capsules daily
        • rhodiola rosea: 500 mg, 1 to 3 capsules daily
        • nutmeg: 500 mg, 1 capsule daily
        • horny goat weed: 500 mg, 1 capsule daily
        • elk antler velvet: 500 mg, 1 to 3 capsules daily
        • Tribulus terrestris: 500 mg, 1 to 3 capsules daily
        Since sperm formation takes almost three months, it will take at least this amount of time before experiencing the benefits of a nutrient supplementation program.


        Causes of Male Infertility

        • inadequate sperm production by the testes
        • poor sperm motility
        • varicocele (dilated veins in the scrotum)
        • undescended testis/testes
        • excessive xenoestrogen (environmental estrogen) exposure
        • infectious disease of the epidydimis (storage tube for sperm), testes, seminal vesicles, urethra, prostate or vas; benign prostatic hypertrophy (enlargement)
        • endocrine (glandular) diseases affecting the hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, adrenals and the testes (e.g. low DHEA and low testosterone levels)
        • congenital abnormalities
        • urethral stricture
        • malnutrition, especially protein deficiency
        Infertility Statistics
        • Ten to 20 percent of all men have low sperm counts.
        • Two to three percent of all men are completely infertile, producing no sperm at all.
        • Infertility affects at least 15 percent of the reproductive age population, with roughly 40 percent of the cases attributable to men.
        • Eighty-five percent are treated with conventional medications (synthetic hormones) or surgery to repair diseased reproductive organs.
        • Less than five percent of infertile couples attempt in vitro fertilization, which has a 10 to 20 percent success rate at a cost of $10,000 per attempt

        10 Foods that Increase Your Sperm Count

        Sperm Count is one of the most important characteristics in male fertility. Research shows that in more than half of  infertility issues in couples, low sperm count is the cause. According to the World Health Organization, sperm count of more than 15 million sperms per milliliters in considered normal. In semen analysis which is a test for sperm quality to find the underlying cause of male infertility, the following parameters are measured: sperm countsperm motilitysperm morphology, volume, fructose level and pH.
        sperm-quality
        Several environmentallifestyle and medical causes can lower the sperm count significantly.
        Here is a list of the most common causes of low sperm count:
        • Drugs such as cocaine and marijuana
        • Drinking alcohol
        • Exteneded uses of computers and laptops
        • Long-term sitting, such as driving and bicycling for a long time
        • Smoking
        • Stress
        • Obesity
        • Medical issues:
        varicocele, infections, inflammation of testicles and prostate, ejaculation issues, anti-sperm antibodies, tumors, homonal imbalance, gluten intoleance and some medications.


        Exercise and a healthy diet can help you to increase your sperm count. Here we gathered a list of 10 foods that can help you to boost your sperm count :

        • Bananas

        Bananas are effective at increasing sperm count, since they contain a rare enzyme calledBromelain. Bromelain is also found in pineapples, and mostly  in their stem. Beromelain is anatural anti-inflammatory enzyme  which also boosts greater production of the male sex hormone, testosterone.
        Bananas are also a rich source of vitamins B1, A and C. These essential vitamins help the body enhance its sperm producing ability and increases stamina significantly.
        • Dark chocolate


        Dark chocolate is not just used in seduction, but it also has enormous health benefits. According to a research published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, dark chocolate can increase the feeling of attraction between two people by releasing the same endorphins that are secreted during sex.
        Dark chocolate also contains L-arginine, which is also present in red meat, nuts, spinach and lentils, whole grains,soy, seafood and eggs. This amino acid is needed for sperm production and when consumed, increases sperm count and boosts semen volume. According to The University of Michigan Health System , several months of L-arginine supplementation increases sperm count, quality, and fertility.
        L-arginine is also known to improve the dilation of blood vessels, which increases blood flow to the genitals, which can help the penis to enlarge. That’s the reason why men who consume dark chocolate everyday have reported stronger and more intense orgasms.

        • Garlic






        Garlic has the ability to increase blood flow in the body. Garlic contains a chemical called allicin. Allicin is responsible for many of garlic’s amazing health benefits including its antimicrobial, and anti-hypertension properties. This compound prevents plaques from building up in arteries and enhances blood flow to the genital area which increases the production of sperm. Garlic also contains nitric oxide synthase, or NOS, which plays an important role in a healthy erection. Garlic provides the body with selenium and vitamin B6 which are responsible for the mechanism of healthy sperm production.
        • Pomegranates

        Pomegranates are useful in problems ranging from cold and flu to low sperm count. Pomegranates contain anti-oxidants that fight a chemical in the blood which destroys sperm. This chemical is known as malondialdehyde (MDA). Malondialdehyde is also found in the semen and is associated with low sperm quality . A new study published in the International Journal of Medical Research and Health Sciences (2013)  shows that smoking increases the levels of MDA in semen and lower the sperm count in semen.
        Aother study published in Clinical Nutrition Journal  shows that daily consumption of pomegranate juice destroys free radicals and boosts sperm quality.
        • Beef

        Beef is a rich source of zinc which possesses protective properties that prevent free radicals from becoming part of sperm. Zinc stops testosterone from converting into estrogen which is responsible for low libido. According to Mayoclinic, daily consumption of 66 milligrams of zinc may increase sperm counts in subfertile men and 220 milligrams of daily zinc is helpful for sexual dysfunction in men.