This is one of a series of news items from abstracts of studies presented at the Annual Meeting of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine as complied by Dr. David Meldrum, Scientific Director of Reproductive Partners. We appreciate the enormous amount of work it takes to compile and comment on these abstracts.

Intake and levels of trans fats were negatively correlated with sperm concentration. Findings in animals suggest a direct negative impact rather than trans fat intake being simply correlated with a poorer diet in general. The predominant source of trans fats is from doughnuts, French pastries and fried foods. When a nutritional label is not present, buyer beware.

Regular exercise was examined as a factor influencing semen quality. Men who exercised regularly had significantly higher motility. Moderate exercise decreases oxidative stress by increasing endogenous antioxidant enzymes such as para-oxinase-1 (PON-1) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and increases vascular nitric oxide and flow-mediated dilation. Both improved antioxidant defenses and increased testicular blood flow could improve sperm function. It is interesting that the factors supporting improved erectile function completely parallel factors improving sperm function.

Bottom line: Excecise regularly and eat well. Have you ever heard this advice before?