Insulin resistance is a metabolic disorder that results from an inability of available insulin levels to ensure efficient uptake of glucose into the blood. This condition is one of the leading factors that affect the quality of semen. Both in diabetes and obesity and in insulin resistance, the concentration of lipoproteins is disturbed. This leads to an increase in triglyceride levels and a decrease in the values of “good” HDL cholesterol.
Insulin resistance leads to inflammation in the pancreas, which lowers levels of sex hormone-binding globulin in obese men. In this way, the quality of the seminal fluid deteriorates. In affected patients, there is a release of insulin in the seminal fluid during ejaculation, which disrupts sperm maturation processes. With insulin resistance, there is also an increased incidence of neurological complications and changes in the emotional balance due to sudden changes in blood glucose and insulin levels. This leads to decreased sexual desire and resorting to harmful habits and improper eating habits, which, in turn, also deteriorate the quality of semen.
The degree of obesity is defined according to the body mass index and is often combined with insulin resistance. High levels of adipose tissue and subcutaneous fat are associated with an increased risk of developing metabolic syndrome and its subsequent reproductive health complications. Nutrition is key to sperm fertility. A diet dominated by foods rich in fat leads to a deterioration in the quality of seminal fluid and a decrease in sperm motility. On the other hand, the intake of antioxidants and substances with anti-inflammatory action, such as Omega-3 fatty acids, is important for improving male stamina.
Vitamin D deficiency is another factor that contributes to reproductive disorders. This condition leads to disturbances in the production of male sex hormones and increases the risk of insulin resistance. The intake of zinc and folic acid is important for improving the quality of semen and increasing the number of functional sperm.