Observational Cross-Sectional Study on Mediterranean Diet and Sperm Parameters

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Nutritional Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Infertility affects 15-25% of couples globally, with male factors contributing to 40-50% of cases.
• Diet and lifestyle significantly influence male reproductive health and sperm quality.
• While Western diets are risk factors, the Mediterranean diet (MD) shows potential to enhance fertility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the relationship between adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) and sperm parameters in males.
• To identify a threshold for MD adherence associated with normal semen parameters.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 300 males referred to a reproductive medicine center.
• Mediterranean diet adherence assessed using the validated 14-point Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS) questionnaire.
• Sperm parameters (count, motility, viability, morphology) analyzed in relation to MEDAS scores, age, and BMI.

Main Results:

• Sperm count, motility, viability, and normal morphology were significantly and positively correlated with MEDAS scores, independent of BMI and age.
• A MEDAS score of 6.26 was identified as a threshold, with scores below this indicating a higher likelihood of altered sperm parameters.
• Individuals with MEDAS scores below 6.25 had a 6.28-fold increased odds of having at least one altered sperm parameter compared to those more adherent to the MD.

Conclusions:

• Higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet is associated with improved semen parameters, including sperm count, concentration, morphology, and motility.
• The MD appears to be a modifiable dietary factor that can positively impact male reproductive potential.
• Maintaining a MEDAS score of at least 6.26 may increase the probability of achieving normozoospermia.