Fatherhood

Sperm Counts

Women come to me to have a healthy pregnancy and for raising healthy children. Prior to pregnancy, I go through a thorough history of their diets and lifestyles, and when I ask about their husband’s diet and supplements, most women are dumbfounded. What does the sperm have to do with a healthy pregnancy? Sperm counts in more ways than one. A new study suggests that the father’s diet before conception may play an equally important role in the health of offspring. The researchers found that paternal folate deficiency was associated with an increase in birth defects. Women are recommended a prenatal vitamin with sufficient folic acid (800mcg-1mg) along with DHA. This is now common knowledge. What about the fathers? Perhaps it would be good for a man to take a good multi (no iron) with sufficient folic acid and extra DHA prior to pregnancy. When I advise clients for pregnancy, I tell the parents that it’s important for the father to clean up his act as well as the mother, a good 3-9 months before conception. Be responsible for your baby’s health. The quality of the food you eat affects your future generations.