Foods That Increase Sperm Count

Types

There are a number of foods that may increase fertility in men who are trying to get a woman pregnant. Each has particular nutrients known to help the body produce more sperm. Popular examples include oysters, because their high level of zinc increases testosterone and semen production; clams and liver, both of which contain good amounts of vitamin B-12; whole grains, legumes and leafy green vegetables, known for their vitamin E content; and vitamin C-rich foods such as oranges and limes.

Function

Getting adequate nutrition not only ensures your body's health, it helps with its processes, including sperm production. Between 20 million and 100 million sperm per milliliter of semen is considered normal, with volumes below 20 million per milliliter believed to cause infertility issues. Foods high in nutrients like vitamin B-12, vitamin C and vitamin E are what the body needs to function efficiently, leading to proper sperm volumes in semen.

Misconceptions

Eating a lot of a certain food isn't going to increase your sperm count, no matter how many olives, sunflower seeds or other rumored foods you scarf down. A healthy overall diet is essential to proper sperm production. Also, eating specific foods won't always result in success, because there could be an underlying medical condition that needs to be addressed.

Considerations

While changing your diet to include certain foods, men should also eliminate fatty foods and avoid alcohol. Taking vitamin supplements may also help--vitamins B-12, C, E and zinc, in particular. Cease smoking and increase exercise and avoid saunas and hot tubs, which increase the testicles' temperature and impede sperm production.

Time Frame

The sperm count in the semen of a man decreases with age, but also is affected by smoking and excessive alcohol intake. If you stop smoking and avoid alcohol, your sperm count will likely increase in a matter of weeks or months.

Warning

Avoid non-FDA-approved supplements that make outrageous claims, as they can be unsafe. And avoid illegal steroid use, since anabolic steroids are scientifically proved to lower sperm count and damage sperm. Stick to natural foods and supplements to keep your sperm count as high as possible.