THE ROLE OF THE MEDITERRANEAN DIET IN PREVENTING MALE INFERTILITY: AN INTERVIEW WITH DR. MIGUEL FORNES (PT-BR VERSION)

Abstract

Introduction: The interview with Dr. Miguel Fornes, a researcher at CONICET and director of the Andrological Research Laboratory of Mendoza, Argentina, discusses his research on the effects of a high-fat diet on male reproductive health and infertility related to hypercholesterolemia. Objectives: Dr. Fornes' primary research objective is to investigate how dietary fat excess and the consequent increase in cholesterol affect sperm physiology and function, specifically concerning capacitation, acrosomal reaction, and egg fertilization. Results: Studies conducted by Dr. Fornes' laboratory have revealed that a high-fat diet promotes hypercholesterolemia, which in turn increases cholesterol levels in sperm. This cholesterol increase interferes with sperm's normal physiology, hindering proper acrosomal reaction, a crucial step for fertilization. Discussion: The importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet such as the Mediterranean diet rich in olive oil, fruits, and vegetables, was emphasized. He highlights the benefits of olive oil, which contains antioxidant molecules that help protect cells from oxidative stress caused by excess fat. Conclusion: Dr. Fornes' research and his team have significant implications for clinical interventions and dietary guidelines to improve male reproductive health. Their results reinforce the importance of a healthy and balanced diet, especially rich in olive oil, to prevent hypercholesterolemia and maintain normal sperm function, thereby contributing to male fertility.