Obesity rates have nearly tripled since 1975 and now affect 13% of the global adult population. High-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity is a major risk factor for male infertility. With infertility also on the rise, the identification of effective remedies to mitigate obesity-related male infertility has become a priority.
A review published in the journal Nutrients looks into mulberry fruit extract’s therapeutic potential for HFD-induced male reproductive dysfunction by evaluating its effects on testicular morphology, spermatogenesis, sperm parameters, and the underlying molecular mechanisms. In this article, we go over the review’s findings and its conclusion on the therapeutic benefits of mulberry extract.
Obesity and male fertility
Studies have consistently shown a concerning connection between obesity and male reproductive health. Obese men have significantly lower sperm concentration and total sperm count compared to men with a normal BMI. Obese men carry a higher risk of infertility – there is a dose-dependent relationship between BMI increase and fertility decline.
A high-fat diet (HFD) negatively impacts male reproductive health at structural, molecular, and hormonal levels. It reduces testicular size, disrupts sperm production, and increases oxidative stress and inflammation. HFD also alters key fertility hormones and may have long-term epigenetic effects, potentially affecting offspring health outcomes. This continues to emphasize the importance of diet in male fertility and how dietary interventions can reduce reproductive dysfunction.
Despite this, nutritional factors are often underestimated in fertility care. When therapeutic approaches to obesity-related male infertility are sought, the success rate is below 30%, and the underlying molecular mechanisms are not addressed.
Reviewing the evidence on mulberry fruit extract and male fertility.
Mulberry fruit extract is rich in bioactive compounds like anthocyanins, flavonoids, and polyphenols, offering antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic benefits. It supports cardiovascular and gastrointestinal health while enhancing food stability and antimicrobial properties.
A comprehensive review of existing studies showed that mulberry extract protects male fertility through several key mechanisms. It boosts the body’s natural antioxidants, reduces inflammation, and helps regulate important cellular pathways. Due to its rich content of anthocyanins and polyphenols, the extract helps preserve testicular structure. It also improves energy production in cells, enhances mitochondrial function, and supports important metabolic processes through epigenetic regulation. Noticeable improvements begin as quickly as within two weeks, with more benefits observed after 28 days of treatment.
As the review authors note, research shows that mulberry fruit extract is a promising remedy for male fertility issues caused by a high-fat diet. However, more research is needed, including to identify key bioactive compounds essential for consistent results.
Key Take Away
Obesity and male infertility are connected, and both are a public health concern. Their growing prevalence necessitates finding effective interventions. This review shows that mulberry fruit extract can be a promising therapeutic option due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic benefits. While current evidence supports its potential to reduce HFD-induced reproductive dysfunction, further research is needed. Still, mulberry extract can be a valuable asset in the care tool kit.
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