Source: Daily Mail
Would-be fathers should make the most of the next sunny day by taking off their shirt and topping up their tan.
A study of 340 men found that vitamin D, produced by the body when exposed to the sun, boosts the quality of sperm.
They become better at swimming towards the egg, have greater speed and are more penetrative.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen tested the quality of sperm from 300 men chosen at random and carried out a detailed analysis of samples from a further 40 in the laboratory.
At the same time the level of vitamin D in their blood was measured. Almost half had an insufficient amount – linked to lack of exposure to natural sunlight or time in a solarium.
Sunlight is the major source of vitamin D, which helps regulate levels of calcium and phosphorus to generate healthy bones.
In addition, the number of healthy sperm in men with insufficient vitamin D was considerably lower than in those with normal levels. The ability to absorb calcium was also inhibited.
Read More: Sunshine linked to fatherhood: Vitamin D boosts sperm quality
Cartoon by Bob Moran
