Planning a pregnancy means getting your body ready for it. That is relevant for both women and men. The probability of conception undoubtedly depends on the quality of the semen. Therefore, man’s body should be prepared as well – it is an important step towards pregnancy, especially if a couple cannot get pregnant for some time. In this case, they will not do without an advice of a medical specialist.

On the other hand – why wait? You can start today! Give up harmful habits, change your lifestyle and diet… Here are some simple but effective tips experts claim can help improve male fertility.

Avoid overheating

High temperatures and sperm do not go well together. The temperature of the testicles should be lower than the body temperature so that they could produce sperm. High temperature decreases its production, so:

• wear loose underwear made of natural materials (boxer shorts instead of tight briefs);

• do not take long hot showers and baths;

• do not place your laptop on your laps;

• avoid sitting for long periods of time and bike riding;

Eat healthy

Some foods can increase male fertility whereas others can harm it. Proper diet is important if you want to conceive a child and can help solve fertility problems unless they are chronic. It is better to give up fast-food and lower your consumption of fats and start eating more foods rich in protein (lean meat, fish, diary), greens, vegetables and whole grains. These foods will be beneficial:

• Foods rich in vitamins A, C and antioxidants help improve sperm motility (oranges, grapefruit, broccoli, tomatoes, dried fruits);

• Foods containing folic acid promote production of healthy semen (kidney beans, green leafy vegetables);

• Foods rich in zinc help prevent the adhesion of sperm (oysters, eggs);

Pay attention to the medications you are taking

Some drugs have negative impact on the likelihood of conception, it is true even if you buy prescription drugs online (antidepressants, anabolic steroids, etc.). Be sure to talk to your doctor about possible side effects affecting fertility before taking any new medicine.

Quit cigarettes and alcohol

Scientists have discovered that smoking negatively affects many aspects of semen health – sperm count, motility and shape. This harmful habit also decreases the ability of the sperm to fertilize a woman’s egg. Even if a man undergoes fertility treatment, it doesn’t mean that he should continue smoking. Researchers have found that heavy drinking also reduces sperm quality and quantity and decreases production of testosterone.