“Eating for two” begins well before conception for men as well as women. While there is no scientific evidence that eating certain foods will enhance a man’s fertility, it is known that maintaining a good balance of nutrients is critical for optimal organ and hormonal system function. Use the following guidelines to support optimal men’s health to build a foundation on which build sexual function.

• Avoid caffeine as much as possible. Caffeine places an added burden on the adrenals, which are important in hormone regulation.

• Avoid alcohol. Evidence suggests that even moderate alcohol consumption by men can decrease chances of conception by damaging sperm development.

• Eat and drink only organic, free-range or hormone-free meat and dairy products. Estrogens are often used in conventional meat and dairy products to increase weight and milk production. These synthetic estrogens stay in the meat and milk and are passed on to those that consume them. Avoid them.

• Get plenty of essential fatty acids in your diet. Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are particularly important for proper hormone balance. Deep sea (wild caught) fatty fish, including salmon, halibut, mackerel, tuna, trout and sardines are good sources. Vegetarian sources include flaxseed and flaxseed oil.  EPA-DHA supplements are also available.

• Follow the Vital Life Diet.