Copenhagen, Denmark – A recent large-scale study revealed a surprising link between sperm quality and longevity. Men with higher levels of strong, agile sperm might live up to nearly three years longer than those with poor sperm motility. The research followed over 78,000 men for 50 years, shedding light on the impact of motile sperm on life expectancy.
Sperm motility refers to the ability of sperm to swim properly through the female reproductive tract to fertilize an egg. Lead study author Lærke Priskorn stated that men with a total motile count of more than 120 million per milliliter of semen lived 2.7 years longer than those with a count between 0 and 5 million. These findings were published in the journal Human Reproduction.
The study compared sperm quality in samples taken between 1965 and 2015 from men undergoing infertility testing in Copenhagen. Researchers then correlated the quality of the men’s sperm with national medical records collected by the Danish national health service. The results showed a clear association between semen quality and life expectancy.
Experts highlighted the importance of sperm quality as a potential marker for overall male health. Poor sperm motility, often associated with male infertility, can indicate underlying health issues. The World Health Organization considers 42% motility in sperm samples as normal, while a count of less than 5 million per milliliter indicates severe oligospermia.
The study emphasized the significance of semen profiles in understanding male health and wellbeing. Oxidative stress, caused by free radicals that damage DNA and cellular function, could be a contributing factor to the association between sperm quality and life expectancy. Factors like smoking, alcohol consumption, and environmental exposure can increase oxidative stress levels.
To combat oxidative stress, experts recommend a diet rich in antioxidants found in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains. Antioxidants play a crucial role in preventing and repairing damage caused by free radicals, supporting overall health and wellbeing. While supplements have shown limited effectiveness against free radicals, a balanced diet including key vitamins and minerals is essential for maintaining optimal sperm health.
In conclusion, the study underscores the value of sperm quality as an indicator of male health and longevity. Understanding the impact of lifestyle, environmental factors, and antioxidants on sperm health can provide insights into overall wellbeing and life expectancy. By prioritizing healthy habits and a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, men can enhance sperm quality and potentially improve their longevity.