For couple-to-be-parent who successfully conceiving and smoothly giving birth to a child are not solely dependent on luck. It also requires a focus on daily diet and preparation starting six months to a year before attempting to conceive. In addition to women developing habits to keep the uterus warm, men should also strive to enhance their reproductive health, improve the quality of eggs and sperm to increase the chances of pregnancy. Proper preparation is essential for a successful pregnancy. However, many factors, including lifestyle and environmental changes, can significantly affect male fertility.
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) views the body as a holistic system and believes that imbalances in the body can affect reproductive health. This is where TCM comes into play in the field of reproductive health. By addressing these potential imbalances through natural therapies, TCM provides a comprehensive and effective approach to improving male fertility.
Reduce alcohol consumption
Alcohol is considered a damp toxin in TCM and can have a negative impact on male fertility by affecting the liver, which is responsible for detoxification and regulating Qi and blood. Reducing or eliminating alcohol from your diet can lighten the burden on the liver and improve overall Qi and blood circulation. This can enhance your reproductive function, including increased sperm quantity and improved sperm quality.
Reduce exposure to excess heat
Environmental factors also play a significant role in male fertility, and exposure to excess heat can negatively affect sperm production and quality. For example, taking hot baths, using saunas, and prolonged contact with laptops generating excessive heat are common culprits. TCM practitioners recommend taking warm showers instead of hot baths, avoiding saunas and hot tubs, and limiting the time spent with a laptop on your lap to reduce exposure to overheating environments.
Maintain a balanced diet
The food we eat provides essential nutrients and energy for optimal body function. TCM fertility principles advocate for a balanced diet, including moderate consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. It is also advised to avoid processed and refined foods as they can increase inflammation in the body, negatively impacting reproductive health.
Herbal supplements to boost fertility
Certain herbs like goji berries, cordyceps, dodder seed, raspberry, and xianling spleen have been shown to improve sperm quality and quantity, enhance libido, and improve overall reproductive health. While herbs can help improve male fertility, it’s essential to use them under the guidance of a qualified TCM practitioner, as some herbs may interact with medications or have side effects.
Go for regular acupuncture sessions
The goal of acupuncture for fertility is to promote the flow of Qi (the body’s life energy) and help restore balance and harmony within the body. Research suggests that when used in conjunction with assisted reproductive techniques (ART), acupuncture can have a significant positive impact on improving sperm vitality, increasing sperm production, raising the percentage of healthy sperm, and elevating hormone levels responsible for fertility.
In addition to its physical benefits, acupuncture also helps alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression, all of which can have adverse effects on reproductive health.
TCM supports male optimal reproductive health
Whether through dietary adjustments, herbal remedies, acupuncture, or other natural therapies, TCM can support men in achieving optimal reproductive health. If you or someone you know is struggling with male infertility, consider exploring the benefits of TCM and taking the first step toward natural improvements in reproductive health.
Our TCM physiciants are dedicated to helping couples achieve their fertility goals by providing customized fertility plans to meet individual needs. Contact us for a consultation or to learn more about your reproductive health.
