How Oxidative Stress Impacts Male Fertility

A potentially harmful occurrence known as oxidative stress could have a negative effect on male fertility. This event occurs when the typical process of oxidation goes awry.

Overview of Oxidative Stress

Usually, when the event proceeds smoothly, oxygen-based molecules are properly metabolized by the body’s cells and tissues. However, during oxidative stress, potentially harmful substances known as free radicals are produced and collected in the body’s cells, tissues and organs.

Furthermore, the accumulation of free radicals can precipitate a decreased concentration of beneficial nutrients known as antioxidants. These chemicals are crucial to preventing a systemic buildup of inflammation. Normally, inflammation is vital to cell repair and the healing process. However, when seen in large quantities or when left unchecked, the occurrence often causes pain and may ultimately lead to serious illnesses like autoimmune disorders, diabetes, heart and blood vessel problems and possibly even cancer.

Oxidative Stress Causes

There are numerous factors that could precipitate an increased systemic concentration of free radicals. Sometimes, stricken individuals may be exposed to a combination of underlying issues including a poor diet, excessive exposure to environmental toxins or allergens, ingestion of certain medications, specific medical conditions and potentially harmful vices like cigarette smoking, and excessive alcohol intake.

Effect on Male Fertility

In addition to potentially causing the preceding health issues, researchers opine that oxidative stress can have a negative effect on male fertility levels. Sperm cells are particularly prone to free radical damage. Ergo, men exposed to elevated or chronic quantities of oxidative imbalances often register diminished sperm counts, which makes conception challenging and sometimes impossible.

Reversing or Alleviating the Problem

Fortunately, stricken men might overcome or reduce the incidents and associated effects of oxidative stress:

• Consume Foods Containing Antioxidants – A major key to conquering oxidative stress is increasing systemic concentration of antioxidants. Common antioxidants found in foods and vitamin supplements include flavonoids, resveratrol, vitamin C, pantothenic acid, and carotenoids. The most direct edible sources of these products are produce items.
• Limit Alcohol Consumption – Alcohol contains countless chemicals that can precipitate cellular damage and accelerate or exacerbate oxidative stress.
• Quit Smoking – Toxins in cigarettes may cause numerous health problems including the release of systemic free radicals.
• Exercise – Researchers suggest that routine physical activity has been shown to provide a natural boost in antioxidant levels.
• Monitor Chemical Exposure – This tip might not always be feasible, especially in relation to airborne substances. However, physicians caution individuals to carefully monitor and, wherever and whenever possible, minimize their contact with chemicals such as cleaning solvents and gardening pesticides. These products are rife with chemicals capable of negatively impacting the oxidation process.
• Obtain Adequate Rest – Receiving sufficient quantities of sleep is vital to achieving and maintaining a proper oxidative balance. Healthcare professionals suggest that adults get anywhere from seven to nine hours of restful and uninterrupted sleep per night.
• Consume Food Wisely – In addition to maintaining a healthy and well-balanced diet, nutritionists and doctors opine that consuming small meals is more likely to promote oxidative harmony than eating three large meals per day.