The formation of male gametes or sperm seems to be stimulated by the effect of caffeine , according to the latest study carried out by the University of Beira Interior (Portugal) and published in the journal Toxicology .
Is caffeine positive in all cases? Researchers claim no. Only in low or moderate doses does it produce this beneficial effect of stimulation of spermatogenesis because the compound favors these cells to produce lactate (essential in this process); however, in high doses it can be harmful, since it can cause further oxidation of the cells.
“The results indicate that caffeine alters the metabolism of Sertoli cells , which support sperm development. Although more studies are needed to clarify the doses of caffeine that may be beneficial or detrimental to Sertoli cell function, the results suggest that moderate consumption appears safe for male reproductive health and promotes conditions for the development and survival of males. sperm ”, explains Pedro Oliveira.
To reach this conclusion, the researchers carried out several in vitro experiments with human Sertoli cells (which define the amount of sperm that are formed) from testicular biopsies. Three different doses of caffeine were applied to each of the samples (low dose, moderate dose and high dose) present in beverages such as coffee or tea. The results revealed that “ the intake of a daily dose of caffeine corresponding to the consumption of three or four coffees or five or six cups of tea for days seems to have no negative effects on Sertoli cells and even seems to have promoting effects on metabolic functioning. of these cells ”, Oliveira sentence.
Scientists must now study whether other caffeinated beverages such as cola or cocoa produce the same outcome for male fertility.
