For decades, fertility research has focused on maternal health, but groundbreaking new research is shifting the conversation. A growing body of evidence now shows that paternal diet before conception plays a critical role in sperm health, fertility, and even the lifelong health of offspring.

Key findings from animal and human studies show that:

• High-fat diets increase the risk of obesity and metabolic disorders in offspring.
• High-sugar diets impair insulin sensitivity and may contribute to cardiovascular disease.
• Low-protein diets impact skeletal and muscle development, affecting growth in children.
• Folic acid deficiency in fathers has been linked to birth defects, cognitive impairments, and low sperm count.

These effects are transmitted via sperm epigenetics—particularly DNA methylation, histone modifications, and sncRNAs. … For years, the focus on reproductive health has been one-sided, with all the pressure placed on mothers. But science is clear … it’s time to rethink male preconception health. What you eat today could influence your child’s well-being for a lifetime.

For years, the focus on reproductive health has been one-sided, with all the pressure placed on mothers. But science is clear: A father’s diet and lifestyle are just as important as a mother’s in shaping the future health of their child.

With conclusive evidence from human clinical trials and epigenetic research, it’s time to rethink male preconception health.

This is an excerpt. Read the original post here