It's estimated that infertility affects one in seven heterosexual couples in the UK.
Award-winning British scientists R. John Aitken explains in his new book, The Infertility Trap: “Research clearly reveals how the consequences of modern life affect fertility and suggest that now would be a good time to consider the behavioural, social, medical and environmental changes we should be making to reduce the severity of what is about to come.”
Aitken, who is one of the highest ranked experts in the world of sperm and germ cells, spoke exclusively with The Mirror to discuss the reasons why our modern age and nonchalance has us walking into an infertility trap and how certain foods could help.
Speaking about various factors contributing to declining fertility rates, Aitken mentioned "exposure to environmental toxicants, and false expectations regarding assisted reproductive technology".
He added: “All over the world we are seeing a dramatic falls in human fertility rates.
“This may seem counterintuitive because the global population is expanding and we are surrounded by the myriad legacies of over-population in the form of global warming, widespread pollution, resource depletion and the spread of diseases like Covid-19.
“In light of such factors, we might conclude that there are too many humans on this planet already and that a gentle correction would not come amiss.
“The trouble is that when the correction comes it will not be gentle and, if we are not prepared, will not be reversible.”
He added: “Research clearly reveals how the consequences of modern life affect fertility and suggest that now would be a good time to consider the behavioural, social, medical and environmental changes we should be making to reduce the severity of what is about to come.”
What to eat and what to avoid for better fertility?
Obesity is associated with both male and female infertility, according to Aitken, adding "so, food intake and exercise have to be carefully balanced, just as we might have anticipated".
He added: “As for the composition of the diet, an adequate supply of antioxidants is essential. Both male and female reproduction are sensitive to oxidative stress."
Foods rich in antioxidants include:
- Blueberries
- Red kidney beans
- Cranberries
- Artichokes
- Prunes
- Apples
- Dark leafy green vegetables
Aitken continued: “The cause must be environmental/lifestyle linked and, although we are not yet certain which specific factors are involved, diet is likely to be important.
“In the book I hypothesise that the oestrogen content of the diet may be a significant factor in the disruption of normal testicular function.
“These compounds can be found in meat and dairy products.
“In many ways you can consider the reproductive system like a 'canary in the coal mine'.
“If you are not maintaining a healthy balanced diet, then your fertility may well be the first aspect of your physiology to suffer.”
Melissa Snover, a registered nutritionist, and founder of 3D-printed personalised vitamin brand, Nourished, says: “Research shows that healthy eating can improve the fertility of men and women at reproductive age.
“In fact, multiple studies have found a link between enhanced fertility and diets with a high consumption of whole grains, unsaturated fats, fruits, vegetables, and fish.
“Whilst alcohol, caffeine, sugar, and saturated fats have been associated with poorer fertility outcomes.
“ Vitamin D3 has also been shown to improve fertility, with research finding that conception levels were significantly higher for those who supplemented their diet with Vitamin D3.”
