Obesity is a common disease in our current era, especially among men, as it can greatly affect sexual health. Many people who seek to start a family and have children face challenges related to obesity and fertility, which may lead to reproductive problems. In this article, through the                Dalili Medical website, we will review the effect of obesity on male fertility and its relationship to obesity, in addition to reviewing effective methods available to overcome obesity and fertility problems.

What is the concept of male reproductive health?

 

Reproductive health in men is determined by their fertility level, which is affected by the number, quality and movement of sperm.

The more sperm produced by the testicles and the faster they reach the egg, the greater the chances of fertilizing the egg, which indicates a good level of fertility in the man.

The doctor diagnoses reproductive health problems and delayed childbearing in men through semen analysis, which measures the amount of fluid, its viscosity, acidity or alkalinity, in addition to the number of sperm and their characteristics such as their movement and the percentage of deformities in them.

When does excess weight begin to increase the risk of obesity?

 

Excess weight becomes dangerous when the body mass index exceeds 23, then the person becomes a candidate for many diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and blood vessels, which causes many severe health and psychological complications.

**What are the diseases associated with obesity?**

 

Excessive obesity causes many diseases, including: heart disease, strokes, digestive problems, diabetes, sleep apnea, arthritis, and some types of cancer.

**Can the number of sperm be increased in men who suffer from obesity?**

 

Yes, this is possible by following a set of steps to get rid of obesity and its risks, which leads to improving the number and quality of sperm naturally. The most important of these steps are:

1. Eating healthy foods.

2. Exercising regularly.

3. Consult a doctor to get the necessary treatments or vitamins.

4. Quit smoking.

5. Be aware of the challenges associated with weight loss, and be patient during this journey, in addition to getting support from friends and family.

6. Set simple, short-term goals to make them easier to achieve.

7. Choose a suitable plan that is in line with your lifestyle to ensure adherence to it.

What are the factors that affect reproductive health in men?

 

Men's reproductive health and their ability to reproduce are affected by several factors, summarized by Dr. Karim Sabry in the following points:

- Unhealthy lifestyle.

- Smoking.

- Alcohol addiction.

- Exposure to environmental pollutants such as radiation, heavy metals, and industrial chemicals.

- Some medications such as anabolic steroids.

- Obesity.

- Previous injury in the testicles.

**Does obesity lead to infertility in men?**

 

Many people are unaware of the effect of obesity on male fertility, although it is considered a common health problem between both sexes, and negatively affects the reproductive ability of both, which may lead to infertility in some cases. Fat accumulation causes a decrease in male hormone levels (testosterone), and some studies have shown that an increase in a man's waist circumference by 4 inches can lead to a decrease in the male hormone by up to 75%. This negative relationship between obesity and fertility is most clearly evident in its effect on the health of semen, as the number of sperm necessary for the fertilization process decreases, and their movement becomes slower, which negatively affects the chances of pregnancy for partners.

**Does the sleeve gastrectomy affect male fertility?**

 

Yes, the sleeve gastrectomy has a positive effect on male fertility. In cases of extreme obesity, a man may suffer from erectile dysfunction and difficulty breathing during intercourse, in addition to low testosterone levels and weak sexual ability. However, after the sleeve gastrectomy, male fertility increases due to higher levels of testosterone, which improves sexual ability.

Does gastric sleeve surgery affect fertility in men?

 

Yes, gastric sleeve surgery affects men's reproductive ability, as excessive obesity is the main reason behind weak sexual and reproductive ability. Gastric sleeve surgery is considered one of the best solutions to get rid of excessive obesity. After this operation, you can lose more than 60% of your excess weight within about 6 months, which leads to an increase in male hormone levels. The body is also able to reorganize metabolic and construction processes, which improves overall health and enhances sexual ability and sperm health and movement.

What is the relationship between obesity and reproductive health in men?

 

The effects of obesity on men appear directly and indirectly, as it affects male hormones and semen. Obesity can also lead to sleep disorders and sexual desire, which are factors that negatively affect reproductive health.

The increase in fatty tissue in the body as a result of obesity or excessive obesity causes physical and hormonal changes. Among these changes is the increase in the temperature of the scrotum, which negatively affects sperm production.

In addition, the likelihood of developing sleep apnea increases, as well as sexual dysfunction or erectile dysfunction.

As for hormonal changes, they include increased levels of leptin, insulin and estrogen hormones, and decreased levels of testosterone. These hormonal imbalances lead to a decrease in the number of sperm or even their absence in the semen.

The relationship between weight gain and infertility

Obesity and fertility in men are associated with the adhesion of the thighs, causing the testicles to be buried in the fat accumulated in the lower abdomen, and they are exposed to high temperatures that affect the quality of sperm in terms of number, shape and movement, and thus lead to infertility.

AndThis is in contrast to its presence outside the body in the scrotum, because it needs a temperature three degrees lower than the normal body temperature, so obesity here negatively affects the conditions necessary for the testicles to remain healthy. In addition, obesity in women leads to increased secretion of the male hormone, which stops ovulation and thus causes infertility. It is worth noting that those who suffer from obesity are more susceptible to various cancers such as breast, cervical and ovarian cancer in women, while for men they may develop prostate and testicular cancer. In addition to the above, excessive obesity causes what is known as insulin resistance, which is a cause of immaturity of sperm or eggs, which means infertility, which is the main reason behind polycystic ovary syndrome due to the accumulation of fat around it, which reduces its efficiency in producing eggs suitable for fertilization, which is the most common cause of infertility among women. **Effect of Obesity on Sperm Formation**

Patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes have found that high levels of insulin in the blood, resulting from increased body resistance to insulin, lead to genetic changes in sperm DNA, which negatively affects fertility.

**Environmental toxins and oxidative stress** Most environmental toxins are fat-soluble substances, and when a person is obese, these toxins accumulate in large quantities in the fatty tissues spread throughout the body, especially in the tissues surrounding the testicles. This accumulation causes an imbalance in fertility hormones in men. Therefore, the presence of large amounts of these environmental pollutants in cases of extreme obesity is associated with disorders in sperm formation and decreased semen production. Obesity and its associated factors, such as insulin resistance and lipid disorders, increase levels of oxidative stress in the body, which leads to damage to sperm DNA. These factors also affect sperm formation, function, and motility.

**Obesity and Erectile Dysfunction** Obesity is a major factor in erectile dysfunction, with studies indicating that about 76% of obese or morbidly obese people experience erectile dysfunction and loss of sexual desire. Some research has also shown a link between erectile dysfunction and type 2 diabetes and heart disease, all of which can be complications of obesity.

**Obesity and Fertility Surgeries** In order to improve reproductive health and increase fertility in overweight individuals, weight control is an important first step. This can be achieved through lifestyle changes, including improving eating habits and exercising, which contribute to enhancing fertility levels. However, lifestyle changes may not be enough for some people, prompting them to seek more effective solutions, such as weight loss surgeries, which have shown a positive effect on weight and fertility. Among these solutions, the sleeve gastrectomy is one of the most common, where 80% of the stomach is removed, resulting in the stomach being shaped like a narrow tube resembling a sleeve. This procedure reduces the amount of food consumed, which contributes to gradual weight loss in a short period of time, which increases the chances of pregnancy. In addition, a gastric bypass can be performed, which aims to reduce the size of the stomach and bypass a large part of the small intestine, which helps reduce the absorption of fats and thus lose weight. Pregnancy after bariatric surgery is considered safer compared to pregnancy during the period of obesity, as many health problems associated with obesity improve.

**The effect of obesity on fertility** The health risks associated with obesity are no secret, as it increases the likelihood of heart disease, diabetes, and back pain. In addition, obesity can be a cause of infertility or reduce the chances of pregnancy in many cases. Therefore, we will review the effect of obesity on fertility and the chances of pregnancy.

Obesity leads to hormonal disorders Doctors indicate that women who suffer from obesity (body mass index 30 or more) may experience unbalanced hormonal levels that negatively affect the ovulation process (egg production), which is reflected in the chances of pregnancy.

Obesity leads to insulin resistance Hormonal disorders resulting from obesity increase the body's resistance to insulin, which increases the risk of diabetes. Obesity also affects egg production, which may lead to irregular or complete cessation of menstrual cycles.

Obesity may hinder natural pregnancy or pregnancy using assisted means. Due to the factors mentioned above (hormonal disorders and increased body resistance to insulin), obesity increases the likelihood of miscarriage, whether the pregnancy was achieved naturally or using assisted techniques such as IVF or artificial insemination.

Obesity also negatively affects men. The effects of obesity are not limited to women's fertility only, but also extend to men's fertility. Obesity leads to lower levels of testosterone in the body, which may contribute to a decrease in sperm count. In addition, obesity can cause problems with erectile dysfunction in men.

Losing weight can help improve these factors

Treatment of these problems depends on reducing body weight, as losing weight helps restore hormones to their normal levels, treats the body's resistance to insulin, and reduces the chances of miscarriage to a minimum, which increases the chances of pregnancy.

**Fertility hormones in men and obesity**

 

Obesity interferes with male hormone (testosterone) levels, which negatively affects fertility. Fat cells contain a group of enzymes, including the aromatase enzyme, which converts male hormones into female hormonesObesity leads to a decrease in testosterone levels by 25% to 32% compared to normal levels.

The imbalance of male hormones affects the functions of the testicles, which hinders the production of testosterone and sperm.

High levels of insulin in the blood, resulting from the body's resistance to insulin as a complication of obesity, also affect the level of testosterone. Therefore, men with obesity and type 2 diabetes suffer from hypogonadism.

White adipose tissue produces the hormone leptin, which plays an important role in metabolism and appetite regulation. In addition, leptin contributes to the regulation of neuroendocrine functions, and also affects the process of puberty and sexual reproduction. When this hormone is secreted in large quantities as a result of increased adipose tissue in cases of obesity, it may lead to reduced semen production and lower testosterone levels.

How does obesity affect male fertility?

 

Endocrine disorders: Men who suffer from obesity and infertility usually suffer from low levels of testosterone and high levels of estrogen in the blood. Low levels of androgens, especially testosterone, are associated with obesity. Levels of the female hormones oestrogen and estradiol are also increased due to increased conversion of androgens to aromatic rings in the body. In addition, increased white adipose tissue contributes to increased estrogen levels. Changes in the ratio of testosterone to estrogen negatively affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, disrupting the negative feedback loop (which is affected by low testosterone) and leading to reduced sperm count. Other hormones are also affected by this, with lower levels of sex hormone-binding globulin in men with a high BMI. Sex hormone-binding globulin plays an important role in spermatogenesis and Sertoli cell function. In addition, leptin levels are elevated in obese and infertile men, while they are lower in obese men without infertility. Leptin is secreted by white adipose tissue in the body, making its serum levels related to the amount of body fat. Elevated leptin also inhibits testosterone production from Leydig cells.

*Insulin resistance:** Secondary hypogonadism is often seen in obese men with type 2 diabetes, as a result of insulin resistance. This resistance is thought to disrupt the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis through mechanisms that are not fully understood. In addition, increased insulin resistance is independently associated with lower testosterone levels. Obesity is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes, and difficulty conceiving is a significant health risk associated with it.

Oxidative stress: Obesity increases the production of reactive oxygen species, which negatively impacts the genetic material in sperm cells. A high body mass index is also associated with increased levels of oxidative stress, which leads to increased production of these oxygen species.

**Metabolic syndrome:** Obesity is a major contributor to metabolic syndrome, along with other factors such as high blood pressure, high blood glucose, and high cholesterol. This syndrome increases the risk of diabetes and is closely linked to hypogonadism and erectile dysfunction. Although not all men with erectile dysfunction are infertile, maintaining an erection is a major challenge for men who have difficulty conceiving. One study found that 27% of infertile men also have erectile dysfunction. Additionally, individuals with erectile dysfunction have been found to be more likely to be overweight or obese. Men who are obese and have metabolic syndrome often have elevated levels of insulin and glucose in their blood, which can negatively impact sperm quantity and quality.

**High temperature:** Sperm formation is very sensitive to temperature, with the optimal temperature being between 34-35 degrees Celsius. Increased fatty tissue in the scrotum can increase the temperature of the gonads, causing damage to developing sperm cells. Common effects of this include decreased sperm motility and increased degradation of genetic material, which reduces a man’s ability to reproduce.

**Tips to get rid of obesity**

 

1. Make sure to drink at least 8 cups of water a day, or about 2 liters.

2. Get enough sleep at night, at least 6 hours a day.

3. Eat plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits in a variety of colors.

4. Avoid eating white sugar completely, as sugar is found in juices, baked goods, sauces, ketchup, and Chinese foods.

5. Stay away from fried foods with hydrogenated oils, and replace frying with grilling or using an air fryer.

6. Exercise regularly for at least half an hour a day.

7. Follow a low-calorie diet, and you can seek the expertise of Dr. Hesham Al-Wasif to develop the appropriate system for you.

8. Chew your food well and eat your meals slowly, as this helps reduce the amount of food you eat.

9. Replace snacks such as chips and chocolate with oatmeal, boiled corn, popcorn, and nuts.

**Best Supplements to Boost Sperm Quality**

 

**Fertil Aid**FertilAid is one of the most prominent supplements that contribute to improving sperm quality. FertilAid consists of a combination of botanical supplements, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that enhance fertility and sperm health in men. It is recommended for people who suffer from low sperm count or motility. Research has shown that using FertilAid can significantly improve sperm count, motility, and shape.

Among the active ingredients in FertilAid are maca root, Asian ginseng, selenium, zinc, CoQ10, L-carnitine, folate, in addition to vitamins A, C, D, the B-complex, and beta-carotene.

Each of these ingredients plays a role in improving sperm quality. For example, the amino acid L-carnitine helps in energy production, which positively affects the maturation and health of sperm, while vitamin C protects sperm from damage resulting from oxidative stress, and beta-carotene contributes to their maturation.

**Proxeed Plus Fertility**Proxeed Plus works as a nutritional supplement to enhance and strengthen the reproductive system in men, and also contributes to improving sperm quality thanks to the active ingredients in it. This supplement contains a group of minerals and vitamins such as L-Carnitine, Zinc, Coenzyme Q10, Selenium, Folic Acid, Vitamin C, and Vitamin B12.

Clinical studies indicate that the ingredients in Proxeed Plus support sperm health and maturation in a safe and effective way. Proxeed Plus contributes to improving sperm quality in four main aspects, including:

- Increasing sperm count and concentration

- Enhancing progressive sperm motility

- Reducing DNA damage in sperm

- Improving the shape and appearance of sperm and increasing their volume

**Wellman Conception**Wellman Conception is considered one of the most prominent supplements used to enhance male fertility. This supplement provides a complete formula of vitamins and minerals that support men's health and contribute to providing the necessary nutrients for sperm production and nutrition. In the manufacture of the Wellmen Conception supplement, ingredients such as L-Carnitine, Maca extract, Pine Bark Extract, a group of B vitamins, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Zinc, Riboflavin, and Coenzyme Q10, among others, were used. Zinc is an essential mineral for the male reproductive system, as its percentage in semen is 100 times that found in blood. In addition, zinc and vitamin B6 help regulate testosterone levels, which enhances sperm count and motility. Therefore, the compounds found in Wellmen Conception tablets contribute to improving men's ability to reproduce.