The Surprising Factor Causing Infertility
Infertility is a serious issue affecting 9% of American men. Infertility happens due to low sperm count, sperm mobility, or morphology. However, other factors increase the risk of infertility. Issues like STIs, varicocele, or physical damage can cause infertility. But new research suggests pre-diabetes could be added to the list.
Understanding diabetes first
Diabetes is a disease where the body cannot produce enough or any insulin. Insulin is needed to break down glucose in the blood for energy. As a result, blood glucose levels are higher than usual. Diabetes can lead to a host of health complications, including early death.
Closer to the edge
Pre-diabetes, therefore, means that blood sugar is dangerously close to becoming diabetes. A prediabetic person typically has a blood sugar level between 100 mg/dl and 125 mg/dl while fasting. People with diabetes have blood sugar above 125 mg/dl. Pre-diabetes shows almost no symptoms. Nearly all men with prediabetes are unaware of the condition. However, research suggests that infertility could be a trigger to test for the disease.
The shocking pre-diabetes research
In a study of 744 infertile men, about 15% of men had prediabetic blood sugar levels. Tests revealed these men had an even lower sperm count when compared to the others. The prediabetic men had lower testosterone levels and a lower quality of sperm. Age was also a factor. Older men in the study with pre-diabetes had significantly lower sperm health.
Stronger sperm through pre-diabetes prevention
Pre-diabetes can harm fertility health. Prediabetic men can quickly get type 2 diabetes. Research has shown a relationship between diabetes and infertility. But all is not lost. Lifestyle changes can return blood sugar to normal levels. Start by reducing weight through daily exercise, particularly weight training. Then reduce sugar by making better food choices, sticking with greens and whole foods.
Don’t overlook pre-diabetes
For couples struggling to get pregnant, seek advice from a doctor right away. A doctor will perform checks to test the quality of sperm. But pre-diabetes can be an overlooked factor. Insist on a blood sugar test to confirm pre-diabetes. Older men with a family history of diabetes should be particularly careful. Once verified, make sure to have the right treatment in place to reverse the condition. This not only helps with fertility but overall longterm health and wellness. For more information, speak with a healthcare provider or fertility specialist.
