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Monday, June 18, 2018

12 Causes of Oligospermia or Low Sperm Count in Men


In recent times the problem of low sperm count and male infertility have become so prevalent, and have led to unhappy homes and unfulfilled hopes seemingly due to a myriad of often-ignored factors like environmental toxins; lifestyle factors etc. which have all otherwise enormously affected fertility in men, and their inability to get a woman pregnant.




According to WHO, in other for a couple to achieve a healthy pregnancy the male partner's sperm will have to satisfy the data below:

-- Normal sperm count > 20 million sperm cells/mL
-- Sperm motility > 50%
-- Morphology (size and shape) of about 30%

The female partner also on her part must "ovulate" a healthy egg (ovum) from either of her ovaries in a copulation-timely fashion, for fertilization and conception to be achieved.
Ideally abnormalities of the male spermatozoa could be described under the following headings:

- Oligospermia (low sperm count): This accounts for about 10 -15% cases of male factor infertility.
- Asthenospermia (poor sperm motility): This is often associated with DNA fragmentation and increase the risk of transferring a genetic disease.
- Teratospermia (abnormal sperm morphology): This refers to the shape and structure of the sperm.

The above sperm abnormalities can morbidly hinder a couple's efforts at getting pregnant, hence early diagnosis usually will save you a lot of time, so you can seek the right solution.
Sadly, a lot of men especially in this part of the world are reluctant, and exhibit pride towards undergoing a sperm health checkup (seminal fluid analysis) in other to pinpoint a predisposing infertility problem. This attitude however, is changing as health education continues to reach out on the web.

12 Common Risk Factors Associated With Low Sperm Count/Male Infertility:

Like I earlier said, the problem of male infertility and low sperm count became prevalent as a result of our changing lifestyle, environmental degradation amongst others.

"A recent report by Dr. Cecil Jacobson of Reproductive Genetic Center, Vienna, Virginia USA stated that sperm count has not declined over the past 4 decades. The study used dates of 1951 for the first comparison study. 1951 was well after the introduction of large amounts of chemicals into society and was a year in which vehicle emissions contained both high levels of lead and large amounts of toxic hydrocarbon and solvent combustion products. Also, by 1951 pesticides use was making its way into consumer use."

The following are the leading risk factors of Low Sperm Count in the tropics:

Cigarette Smoking:
Smoking lowers a couple's chances of conception up to 20%, according findings, by reducing the male sperm production and also damaging the DNA structure (genetic material) of the sperm. Smoking also can affect sperm quality and overall male fertility health, hindering conception.

Drug/Substance Abuse:
Recreational drugs like cocaine, marijuana can temporarily reduce sperm count and quality, affecting a couple's chance of conception greatly by hindering the testicular capacity to create adequate sperm. And the use of anabolic steroids have also been linked to low sperm production.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs):
Bacterial organisms like Chlamydia Trachomatis and Gonorrhea are the commonest known causes of infertility related infections in men, even in sexually active women. This group of microorganisms in men spread to the testis and epididymis (a tube that conveys sperm from the testicles) hindering the passage of sperm due to blockage caused by inflammation as a result of the ensuing infection.

Environmental Factors:
Occupational or prolonged exposure to toxins and chemicals (eg; pesticides, herbicides, insecticides etc) are otherwise identified as Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDC) by environmental toxicologists. Studies have shown that the above chemicals reduce sperm production in male by hindering the function of testosterone (male hormone) that creates new sperm.

Physical or Mental Stress:
Stress has been linked to reduction in sperm production in males, as a result of hormonal imbalance created by stress hormones in the body (cortisol and adrenaline), and indirectly affecting the function of testosterone.

Overheating the Testicles:
The testicles (or testis) anatomically is located outside the body. By the Creator's design, this is an indication that sperm production requires a subnormal body temperature (<37 C) for formation. And so, using hot bath tubs, wearing tight silk boxers; prolonged placing of laptops on your thighs could potentially reduce the counts of your swimmers thereby affecting your chances of getting your partner pregnant.

Obesity:
Obesity could affect your fertility health negatively by creating hormonal imbalance in your physiology, reducing your testosterone level and subsequently affecting sperm production. Maintaining an optimum BMI within 20 - 24 kg/m2 (body mass index) is ideal when preparing for conception.

Bicycle Riding:
In recent times, some comparative studies have revealed that cycling for a long time (more than 5 hours per week) can affect sperm quality and lower a man's odds at getting a woman pregnant. It is believed that pressure from the bike's seat could potentially injure blood vessels and nerves responsible for Attention in the perineum (a region between the anus and genitals). And so, the male partner is advised against cycling when actively trying to get his partner pregnant.

Age:
Age has been associated with male infertility and low sperm production. As a man advances in age (70 - 80 years), the longer it will take him to get his partner pregnant, compared to when he is young and sexually active.

Electromagnetic Field Radiation:
There is growing evidence that excessive exposure to EMF radiation could affect male fertility and also reduce sperm count in the process. Hence, reducing your exposure to X-rays and use of mobile devices anywhere around your genitals is highly advocated.

Erectile Dysfunction:
Erectile dysfunction or weak Attention in layman's understanding is the inability of the joystick to maintain and sustain an Attention necessary for penetration. Many men suffer from this sexual health dysfunction, and this has often been linked to reduced testosterone activity in men leading to low sperm production.

Varicocele:
This condition is one of the commonest causes of infertility in men. It is characterized by abnormal enlargement and twisting of the veins that drain "de-oxygenated" blood from the testicles. Research shows that it affects 15 out of 100 men. Theoritically, varicocele impacts male fertility negatively by raising the temperature of the testicles, or through excessive pooling of blood in the vein carrying blood from the testicles resulting to reduced sperm production.

How To Assess Your Overall Sperm Health -- Total Sperm Check-Up:

The standard laboratory test for analyzing sperm health medically is called Seminal Fluid Analysis. Here are the guidelines, steps and what to expect from your doctor or lab scientist during this evaluation procedure:

Step 1:
You will be counseled and asked to abstain from sexual intercourse for a maximum of 3 days before the test is done, to ensure adequate collection of your Fluid.
Step 2:
On the said third day: You will be mandated to either Erupt into a sterile plastic container via masturbation or through Withdrawal Method with your partner, and hurriedly send the collection to the Lab within 30 minutes. I usually recommend the first option to avoid delays.
Step 3:
Therein at the Lab your Fluid will be stored at a suitable temperature or analyzed at once, for findings. Ideally, this test should be repeated at least 3 times over several months.

How To Prevent Low Sperm Count Condition - What To Do:

As long as you are concerned, preventing low sperm count condition primarily will require a disciplinary and proactive approach on your part. Hence, I strongly recommend you get an accountability partner, your woman preferably to help you stay focused and track your efforts and progress.

Here Are Things To Stay Clear Off:
- Avoid smoking
- Aim to maintain an optimal Body Mass Index of <25kg/m2
- Abstain from alcohol
- Reduce exposure to environmental toxins, chemicals, heavy metals at your home and workplace
- Learn to manage stress
- Limit or avoid self-medication. And always consult your healthcare provider for the right drug prescription.

By Dr Gilbert Nnaji

Saturday, June 9, 2018

5 Realistic PCOS Natural Treatment Remedies



Women suffering from PCOS symptoms such as acne, excess hair growth, infertility, irregular periods and weight gain can attain profound changes through PCOSnatural treatment remedies.

PCOS orPolycystic Ovarian Syndrome is a hormonal disorder in which fluid-filled cysts develop on the ovaries. If an ultrasound is taken, numerous immature ova can be spotted, which are mistakenly referred to as cysts, and the ovaries appear enlarged.
The way of treating PCOS has changed as our understanding of how this hormone disorder has improved over the past couple of years. The root causes of PCOS are addressed by the natural treatment remedies of this difficult condition. The use of diet plan, supplements, herbal and lifestyle changes have helped many women see positive results.

Following are 5 realistic PCOS natural treatment remedies that can help alleviate this disorder.

PCOS Natural Treatment Remedy 1: The Best Diet for PCOS
Stabilizing blood sugar levels through a balance diet, including whole foods, is the key to treating PCOS naturally. Sugary foods should be banished. Insulin Resistance Syndrome can develop overtime as a result of too many rapid spikes in blood sugar levels.
Insulin Resistance Syndrome is a condition in which the body is not able to effectively control blood sugar levels and weight gain. In women suffering from PCOS, it is an underlying problem. In Insulin Resistance Syndrome, the body is also not able to use carbohydrates for energy and starts storing them as fat.
In order to follow the best PCOS diet, the following basic tips should be considered.
- Low GI carbohydrates should be balanced with sufficient protein.
- Phytoestrogens should be included in diet.
- Intake of saturated fats should be reduced.
- Dairy products should be avoided or limited.
- Additives, food chemicals and preservatives should be avoided.
- Alcohol and caffeine should be avoided.
- Sugar should be avoided.
- 2 liters of filtered water should be consumed daily.
- Essential fatty acids should be included in diet.

PCOS Natural Treatment Remedy 2: Supplements and PCOS
Many women lack important minerals and vitamins for hormone health. A great imbalance between numerous minerals and vitamins are created when oral contraceptive pills are taken for the regulation of periods. The root cause of PCOS can be treating by correcting this imbalance.

For PCOS, supplements with the following ingredients should be considered:
- Amino acids N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) and L-arginine
- B Vitamins
- Chromium
- Co-enzyme Q10
- Diindolylmethane (DIM)
- Essential minerals
- Essential vitamins
- Magnesium
- Zinc

PCOS Natural Treatment Remedy 3: Herbs and PCOS
PCOS can be effectively treated using herbs. The addition of supplements and making changes help with balancing blood sugar levels and controlling weight while the problems related to hormone imbalance are targeted by herbs.
The following herbs should be considered:
- Chaste tree (Vitex Agnus castus): The function of the pituitary gland is stimulated and normalized by this herb to help treat infertility and PCOS.
- Peony and Licorice: The combination of these herbs can help regulate hormones like oestrogen and prolactin, improves LH to FSH ratio and reduces elevated levels of androgens like testosterone.
- Maca is an herb that can help cure PCOS symptoms like acne, hirsutism, irregular menstrual cycles and also insulin resistance.
- Gymnema is an herb that can help reduce sugar and carbohydrate cravings
- Tribulus is an herb that helps regulate ovulation and restore menstrual regularity.
- Blue Cohosh is an herb that acts as a pelvic anti-inflammatory and an ovarian and uterine tonic.

PCOS Natural Treatment Remedy 4: Other Natural PCOS Treatments
- Congestion can be reduced with the help of lymphatic drainage. Exercise like rebounding, massage and skin brushing should be tried.
- For pain relief, linseed and castor oil packs should be tried.
- The most appropriate homeopathic medicines for the treatment of PCOS can be obtained with a prescription from a naturopath or homeopath.
- Natural progesterone cream can be tried. The dose depends on the imbalances and symptoms.
- Acupuncture can also help treat PCOS. Some acupuncture points are used for breaking up stagnation, moving blood and stopping pain.

PCOS Natural Treatment Remedy 5: Exercise and PCOS
For women suffering from PCOS, fitness and insulin resistance can be improved by introducing a regular exercise program, and a healthy weight can also be maintained this way. Some exercises that can help treat PCOS and its symptoms include aerobics, cycling, Pilates, power-walking and swimming.

If you are suffering from PCOS, now is the time you empower yourself and try out these mentioned 5 realistic PCOS natural treatment remedies.

By Zeeshan Naveed Bari



Wednesday, June 6, 2018

Benefits of Mango


Facts About Mango
Tropical climate, with its long dry season suits mango even though there are isolated cases of the fruit being grown successfully in Europe. It is seasonal fruit that is believed to be originating from the sub-Himalayas. Some documents indicate that mango was around 4000 or more years ago!
"The king of the fruit" by all means deserves the title. Mango is nutritionally rich fruit with an incredible fragrance, flavor, sweetness levels, texture and taste that tends to capture taste buds of even the most choosy and prominent flavor seekers. Flavor is pleasant and rich: the fruit tastes sweet but the high water content is providing the balancing act. Quality mango fruit features sweetness and creaminess with good balance of water and fibrous content. With such versatility, mango is a perfect addition to fruit creams, raw ice creams, nut yogurts, raw desserts, raw chocolates, fruit and other salads as well as smoothies, breakfast muesli and shakes. This is not where the story ends. This is where it actually begins.
Mango For Health
Mango contains an incredible array of health building nutrients. It is rich in B vitamins. Anti-oxidant vitamins A and C are present in remarkable quantities. Alkaline minerals such as potassium and magnesium are found in mangoes, so are copper and iron. Being rich in iron, mango is suitable for individuals with iron deficiencies, such as anemia.
Mango is an alkaline fruit that is rich in organic water, numerous other anti-oxidants and phyto hormones, dietary fiber and so on.
Valuable anti-oxidant vitamins such as vitamin A, C alongside remarkable phyto nutrients content attribute to considerable free radicals fighting and anti cancer properties.
 Despite rich sweet flavor, mango has low GI factor of 45-55 and GI factor of 8. It is suitable for type 2 diabetics but the diabetics are advised to consume no more than one mango a day.
As an alkaline substance that is rich in organic water, electrolytes, living enzymes, phyto nutrients and other health restoring nutrients, mango is an excellent digestive and detoxifying agent.
So called mango latex allergy especially with raw, unripe mangoes is common in some sensitive individuals. Immediate reactions may include itchiness at the corners of the mouth, lips, and at the tip of the tongue. That allergy is not present if consuming ripen mango.
Mango For Skin
Being vitamin, mineral and anti-oxidant rich, mango comes with potent skin anti aging properties. The simplest way to use it is by rubbing the fresh remains of mango flesh, left on the stone on our face and neck. Turn the stone so that the edge of it faces your face and rub it gently all over the face and the neck, avoiding the eyes. Repeat 2-3 minutes later, leave for another 2 minutes then rinse off. This is wonderful natural skin tonic, with skin regenerating and protective properties. Also read 

7 Steps to a Beautiful Radiant Face


Mango In The Kitchen
What can be made using mango in the kitchen? Mango is ideal for fruit salads, fruit shakes, fruit creams, fruit yogurts, smoothies, fruit cake creams or for making raw fruit cakes including a simple fruit crumble (recipe supplied), for making mango chutney or for drying it and storing to use for fruit compotes or as sweetener and so on.
How to cut mango? Peel the mango thinly first. Cut lengthwise, about ½ cm from the middle, making sure not to cut into the seed. Cut both sides, with the seed remaining in the middle, untouched. Put the two large halves of mango aside and cut around the central seed to remove remaining flesh.
Mango On a Hot Summer Day
Due to its sweetness and water content, mango can be used for preparation of delicious summer coolers. Some ideas could be as follows:
In a mix with plain yogurt in 1:1 ratio, with addition of a few finely chopped fresh mint leaves, mango creates true refreshing creamy snack on a hot summer day;
Mango juice with added lime juice can be frozen and added to flavor and cool drinking water;
One peeled mango and 2 glasses of fine ice, blended in high power blender make a fantastic refreshing fruit shake.
Delightful Raw Mango Crumble Recipe
Ingredients (base):
  1. 4 large sweet ripe mangoes, peeled and cubed
  2. 2 tbsp roughly chopped almonds
  3. 1tsp finely chopped mint leaves
  4. generous squeeze of lime or lemon juice

Preparation: Spread cubed mangoes over a glass dish (approx 24cmx16cm). Sprinkle with chopped almonds and chopped mint. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and leave in the fridge while you prepare crumble topping.
Ingredients (crumble topping):

  • 1½ cups ground almonds or cashews
  • ½ cup finely desiccated coconut ( Read 


How to Make Your Own Coconut Milk)



  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ½ cup raw coconut butter
  • 1/2 tsp stevia in 3 tbsp water (or 2 tbsp raw organic agave nectar)
  • pinch of sea salt to enhance flavor of other ingredients

Preparation: Mix dry ingredients first: ground almonds, desiccated coconut, nutmeg and salt. Add coconut butter and stevia combined with water (or agave nectar) and mix thoroughly with fingers to form crumble. Sprinkle over the fruit and refrigerate for further 2hrs.
By Divna Zlokapa