Effects of a Fasting Mimicking Diet on Sperm Quality

Effects of Repetitive Cycles of a Fasting Mimicking Diet on Sperm Quality in Men Between 18 and 60 With Reduced Sperm Quality According to the WHO-5 Criteria.

This study investigates the effect of repetitive cycles of a Fasting Mimicking Diet (3x5 days in six months) on sperm quality in men

This 2-arm, randomized, controlled exploratory clinical trial aims to explore fasting as a novel supportive treatment in male infertility due to reduced sperm quality according to WHO5-criteria. The participants will be randomized in two groups. The intervention group follows a regime of a periodic fasting mimicking diet (3x5 days in six months, every 6-8 weeks, accompanied via a mobile application), whereas the patients on the waiting list continue their normal diet. Spermiograms are taken about every 2 months following the WHO-5 criteria. In addition, qualitative interviews will be conducted including individual and focus group interviews with a subgroup of participants.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Men aged between 18 and 60 years
• Unfulfilled desire to have a child > 1 year
• reduced sperm quality (proven via spermiogram according tho WHO-5 criteria)
• informed consent
• 20 kg/m² <= BMI <= 35 kg/m²

Exclusion Criteria:

• No sufficient communication possible
• severely impairing cognitive illness
• serious mental illness
• Patients with anatomical/organic damage of reproductive organs
• Eating disorders in the medical history
• Serious internal diseases
• Lack of internet access
• No consent to randomisation
• Participation in other studies