Meta AnalysisHumann = 2,558 individuals across 11 studies2025
Mediterranean Diet, Semen Quality, and Medically Assisted Reproductive Outcomes in the Male Population: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Plain-language summary
This study set out to see if sticking to a Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) is linked to better sperm quality and fertility outcomes in men. It pooled data from 11 studies, including both observational studies and clinical trials, involving over several thousand men, some healthy and some from fertility clinics. The analysis found that higher MedDiet adherence was tied to better sperm count, motility, and normal shape, but not to improved fertility outcomes from assisted reproductive treatments. The findings suggest that while the MedDiet may boost sperm health, it does not seem to improve the chances of conception through medical interventions.
Key findings
- Higher MedDiet adherence was linked to better sperm count, total motility, progressive motility, and normal morphology.
- No association was found between MedDiet adherence and fertility outcomes from medically assisted reproduction.
- Evidence from both observational studies and clinical trials supports the benefits of MedDiet on sperm quality.
How to analyze the study yourself
- Study type
- Meta-analyzes pool data from multiple studies to provide a broader view, but they rely on the quality and consistency of the included studies.
- Population
- The study included both healthy men and those seeking fertility treatment.
- Funding
- Not reported
- Watch for
- This study found that sticking to a Mediterranean diet was linked to better sperm count, movement, and shape, but not to improved fertility outcomes from assisted reproduction. If you are trying to conceive naturally, it may be worth adopting a Mediterranean diet to support sperm health.