For a long time, there has been a folk belief that celery can "boost libido" and improve male sexual function. This claim is actually unscientific: not only does celery not "boost libido," but eating too much of it can also damage sperm!
Eating more celery can inhibit the production of testosterone, thereby having a sperm-killing effect and reducing sperm count. According to reports, doctors abroad have found through experiments that healthy, fertile young men who consume celery for consecutive days experience a significant decrease in sperm count, to the point where it becomes difficult to conceive. This situation returns to normal several months after stopping the consumption of celery.
Soybeans are one of the increasingly popular health foods in recent years, and the rich protein they contain is widely recognized as high-quality protein needed by the human body. However, a latest scientific study shows that certain components in soybeans can cause a decrease in sperm count, thereby affecting male reproductive function. Soy milk and soy yogurt, which are widely praised by many, have also become foods that can kill sperm.
This research on the relationship between soybeans and male reproductive function was led by Sheena Lewis, a professor of reproductive medicine at Queen's University Belfast and the head of the research team. The researchers believe that the chemical compounds in soybeans can "mimic" the function of the female hormone estradiol, leading to a reduction in sperm count. Lewis said: "The fact that chemical compounds in soybeans can reduce sperm count is very concerning. Currently, we are preparing for the next stage of research."
Another member of the research team, Laurie Anderson, said: "Changes in the level of estradiol in the male body not only affect sperm count but can also lead to structural abnormalities in male sexual organs such as the epididymis. Over time, this can also lead to other diseases, such as testicular cancer."
It is understood that one in seven couples in the UK has fertility problems, and 40% of these are caused by male infertility. In fact, as early as April 15, 2003, the British newspaper *The Daily Mail* reported the astonishing research findings from Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, USA: the increasing consumption of soybeans in the UK may be the main culprit for the decline in male reproductive function and many male developmental abnormalities.
Scientists believe that women consuming soybeans during pregnancy or breastfeeding may endanger the reproductive function of male infants, because some of the chemical substances in soybeans are very similar in function to estradiol.