New research warns: This type of food could reduce men's libido and harm fertility

A recent study suggests that a diet rich in ultra-processed foods could significantly harm men's libido and reproductive health, potentially impacting their fertility. While often linked to obesity and chronic diseases, this new research points to a more intimate consequence for male well-being.

The Danish research, involving 43 men aged 20 to 35, observed participants over three weeks on diets high in ultra-processed foods, followed by a period on minimally processed foods. Researchers noted that the negative effects were not solely attributable to higher calorie intake, as participants gained more body fat on the ultra-processed diet even when calorie consumption was similar.

Key findings revealed that men consuming more ultra-processed foods exhibited lower levels of testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). These hormones are crucial for sexual desire and sperm production. Additionally, elevated levels of cxMINP, a chemical used in plastic production known to interfere with hormone function, were detected.

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Our results show that ultra-processed food harms reproductive and metabolic health even when not consumed in excess. This suggests that the way food is industrially processed is one reason for its harmfulness.

Professor Romain Barrès from the University of Copenhagen, a lead researcher, expressed concern over the rapid onset and range of negative effects observed, even in healthy young men. "Our results show that ultra-processed food harms reproductive and metabolic health even when not consumed in excess. This suggests that the way food is industrially processed is one reason for its harmfulness," stated Jessica Preston, another author of the study.

Ultra-processed foods encompass items like hot dogs, processed meats, fries, packaged snacks, and ready-made meals. While occasional consumption may not be cause for alarm, a diet predominantly based on these products could pose long-term risks to health, including reproductive and metabolic functions.

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He noted that the number of negative effects that such a diet caused in such a short period, even in healthy young men, surprised him and his colleagues.