Gynaecologist and Obstetrician Specialist, Dr Promise Sefogah, has warned that male fertility is significantly affected by alcohol consumption, lifestyle choices, and environmental exposures.
Speaking on JoyFm’s Super Morning Show, Dr Sefogah described alcohol as a major threat to male reproductive health. “Alcohol is an enemy to your fertility as a man. Because alcohol damages the sperm,” he said.
He explained the extent of the damage, adding, “It damages to the point of affecting how normal the sperm is formed. It affects how the sperm moves. It affects the concentration of the sperm. And also affects the DNA of the sperm. We call it DNA fragmentation. So it poses so much risk to your fertility function.”
He warned that alcohol consumption can also reduce testosterone levels, which in turn may impair sexual function and overall health.
Dr Sefogah explained that one of the most serious effects of chronic alcohol use is a reduction in testosterone, a male hormone essential for erections, muscle development, and sexual desire.
While alcohol might initially give a feeling of readiness, long-term use lowers testosterone, diminishes libido, and can lead to erectile dysfunction. He advised avoiding alcohol as much as possible, particularly in large amounts.
Dr Sefogah also highlighted environmental hazards that can harm male fertility.
“So with all these. And avoid a lot of environmental exposures like the air pollution. We call it traffic or industrial emissions. You know, avoid exposure to them. And then the elephant in the room. The heavy metals from the galamsey.
“We are worried about. They get into the system. Damage the ability of you to make normal sperm. Sperm become so badly abnormal. They cannot fertilize the egg. Or they manage to fertilize the egg. The pregnancy form is abnormal. The baby comes with abnormalities. If it stays the term at all,” Dr Sefogah pointed out.
He shared practical tips for naturally boosting male fertility through diet and lifestyle, emphasising how modern habits can negatively impact reproductive health. Dr Sefogah encouraged cutting down on processed foods and keeping the diet as natural and wholesome as possible.
A healthy diet, he explained, should focus on vegetables and whole grains.
Eggs without yolks are preferable, as yolks contain high levels of cholesterol. He also highlighted the benefits of ginger and the value of nuts—especially tiger nuts, which locals consider particularly powerful.
On maintaining overall health, Dr Sefogah advised focusing on nuts, fruits, and vegetables while keeping a healthy weight. He emphasised that regular exercise not only improves testosterone levels but also enhances overall health and reduces the risk of developing diabetes and hypertension.
Dr Sefogah’s warnings underscore the critical importance of avoiding alcohol and environmental pollutants while adopting a healthy, natural diet and lifestyle to preserve male fertility and ensure healthy reproductive outcomes.
