It is said that women eating tofu can beautify and nourish the skin, and it is delicious and highly favored by people. But why can't men eat tofu? Because a plant chemical found in tofu may be harmful to sperm and affect male reproductive ability. So what are the specific reasons?
Reasons why men can't eat tofu
1. Promotes arteriosclerosis
Tofu contains a rich amount of methionine, which can be converted to homocysteine by enzymes. It damages the endothelial cells of arterial walls, causing cholesterol and triglycerides to deposit on arterial walls and form arteriosclerosis.
2. Triggers gout attacks
Tofu contains a relatively high amount of purines. Gout patients with purine metabolism disorders and patients with high blood uric acid levels are prone to gout attacks when they eat tofu excessively.
3. Causes iodine deficiency
Soybeans used to make tofu contain saponins, which accelerate the excretion of iodine in the body. Excessive consumption of tofu for a long time can easily cause iodine deficiency and lead to iodine deficiency disorders.
4. Increases the burden on the kidneys
Under normal circumstances, plant proteins ingested by the body are metabolized and mostly become nitrogenous waste, which is excreted by the kidneys. Excessive intake of plant proteins will increase the production of nitrogenous waste in the body, burden the kidneys, and be detrimental to overall health.
5. Harmful to sperm
Research has found that a plant chemical found in soybeans may be harmful to sperm. According to Reuters, British researchers have found that a plant chemical found in soybeans may be harmful to sperm and affect male fertility. Therefore, male friends, especially those trying to conceive, should be cautious about eating tofu and avoid it.
Foods for men to improve reproductive health
1. Oysters
After the age of 24, the quality and quantity of sperm in men will decrease. Male semen contains a large amount of zinc, and when the body lacks zinc, it will affect the quantity and quality of sperm.
In terms of diet, oysters, shrimp, crabs, and other seafood are rich in zinc, especially the zinc content in oysters. Eating one oyster a day can meet the daily zinc requirement of the body and help enhance male sexual performance.
2. Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain a large amount of lycopene, which can help remove free radicals in the prostate, thus protecting the male prostate. Studies have found that compared to the general population, men who eat 10 or more tomatoes per week have a 45% lower risk of developing prostate cancer.
Therefore, it is recommended that men eat more tomatoes. If men consume 100-200 grams of tomatoes every day, it can meet the body's needs for lycopene, and ripe tomatoes are easier for the body to absorb.
3. Garlic
It is well known that garlic has a strong bactericidal effect. But many people don't know that garlic can also help the body absorb vitamin B1, promote carbohydrate metabolism to produce energy, and relieve fatigue. In addition, the lead sulfide in garlic also has antioxidant effects, making it a good anti-cancer food.
4. Chinese Chives
Chinese chives have a warming effect on the liver and kidneys and are particularly effective in strengthening yang and consolidating essence. Therefore, Chinese chives are also known as "yang-boosting herb". Chinese chive seeds are stimulants and have functions such as consolidating essence, strengthening yang, nourishing the kidneys, and treating excessive urination.
