#969 - Dr Michael Eisenberg - How To Protect & Improve Your Fertility As A Man

Overview

Dr. Michael Eisenberg explores the alarming decline in global sperm counts, the factors influencing male fertility, and actionable steps men can take to improve reproductive and overall health. The conversation also delves into the relationship between testosterone, lifestyle, and fertility, as well as emerging reproductive technologies.

Notable Quotes

- Anything that's good for your heart is good for fertility. – Dr. Michael Eisenberg, on lifestyle changes to improve sperm quality.

- Men with lower semen quality have higher risks of testis cancer, prostate cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and even mortality. – Dr. Michael Eisenberg, highlighting the link between sperm health and overall health.

- The body prioritizes survival over reproduction. Elevated stress and cortisol levels can deprioritize sperm production. – Dr. Michael Eisenberg, on the impact of stress on fertility.

🧬 Declining Global Sperm Counts

- Sperm counts have dropped by over 50% in the last 40 years, with an accelerated decline of 2% per year in recent decades.

- Factors contributing to this decline include environmental exposures like microplastics, endocrine-disrupting chemicals, and pesticides.

- Regional differences in sperm quality exist, with lifestyle, activity levels, and ethnicity potentially playing roles.

- Improved methodologies in sperm testing have solidified the consensus around this decline.

🍎 Lifestyle and Fertility

- Dr. Eisenberg emphasizes actionable steps:

- Maintain a healthy diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

- Exercise regularly and avoid sedentary habits.

- Limit exposure to plastics and pesticides, opting for organic produce when possible.

- Stress and anxiety can negatively impact sperm production, creating a vicious cycle for men concerned about fertility.

🔬 Emerging Reproductive Technologies

- Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) has revolutionized male fertility, enabling men with minimal sperm counts to become biological fathers.

- IVF now accounts for 2% of births in the U.S., with numbers rising due to delayed parenthood and declining fertility.

- Future technologies like in vitro gametogenesis (IVG) could allow for embryo creation from skin cells, potentially eliminating genetic diseases.

💪 Testosterone and Male Health

- Testosterone levels have declined over time due to factors like obesity and sedentary lifestyles.

- While testosterone therapy can improve sperm quality and libido, excessive supplementation can reduce sperm production.

- Dr. Eisenberg recommends men establish baseline testosterone levels early to monitor changes over time.

🛌 Sleep, Stress, and Fertility

- Sleep has a U-shaped relationship with sperm quality; 6–9 hours per night is optimal.

- Chronic stress elevates cortisol, which antagonizes testosterone and deprioritizes sperm production.

- Mental health plays a critical role in fertility, with stress about reproduction further exacerbating fertility issues.