Tips on improving male fertility

Lifestyle changes can help boost a man's sperm count and go a long way toward promoting fertility. There's scientific evidence to suggest that men who are trying to have a child should consider the following recommendations:

* If you smoke, make every attempt to quit.

* Consume alcohol in moderation.

* Do not abuse drugs such as marijuana and cocaine.

* Eat a well-balanced diet.

* Drop a few pounds if you are overweight.

* Engage in regular physical activity.

* Some evidence suggests that raised scrotal temperature may lower sperm counts, so avoid prolonged use of hot tubs. Wearing loose-fitting boxer shorts instead of tight fitting briefs may not be a bad idea, though the benefits are far from certain.

* If you have underlying health problems such as diabetes or high cholesterol, get them under control.

"Reproductive function is one of the first things to go in states of poor health," says male fertility expert Dr. Thomas Walsh of UC San Francisco. "If your goal is to family plan, your job is to be the healthiest person you can possibly be."

-- Valerie Ulene