Misconception: Eating more kidneys can lead to infertility.

Core Tip: The latest research has found that livers and kidneys of pigs, cattle, and sheep all contain varying amounts of the heavy metal cadmium. While people engage in dietary therapy, they are also ingesting cadmium, which can very likely lead to infertility. For those who are also smokers, the chance of infertility can be as high as 60%.

"Kidneys" have long been a prized aphrodisiac for men, especially when grilled on a skewer. Under the belief of "like cures like," this food takes on a certain ambiguity. However, experts are warning men seeking to strengthen their腰子 (waist/kidneys) to be cautious, as eating too many can lead to male infertility.

The latest research has found that livers and kidneys of pigs, cattle, and sheep all contain varying amounts of the heavy metal cadmium. While people engage in dietary therapy, they are also ingesting cadmium, which can very likely lead to infertility. For those who are also smokers, the chance of infertility can be as high as 60%.

Cadmium can induce degenerative changes in the structure and function of male reproductive organs such as the testes and epididymis, ultimately leading to a decline in reproductive capacity.

According to the World Health Organization's recommendations, an individual's weekly exposure to cadmium should not exceed 7 micrograms per kilogram of body weight. "Kidneys," considered a food that "strengthens essence," contain high levels of cadmium. The harm of cadmium to human tissues and organs is multifaceted, mainly affecting the kidneys, liver, and reproductive function. It not only reduces sperm count but also affects the implantation of a fertilized egg. Cadmium can damage chromosomes, making it difficult for the fertilized egg to implant and thus affecting conception.

If the person is also a smoker, the chance of infertility can be as high as 60%, because each pack of smoked cigarettes increases the body's cadmium content by 2 to 4 micrograms. Furthermore, chronic cadmium poisoning can cause kidney damage or lead to bone diseases.

Finally, a reminder for everyone: high-zinc foods can help expel cadmium. Therefore, to prevent excessive intake of cadmium in daily life, you can choose foods rich in zinc. Eat more vegetables and fruits. High-zinc foods are mainly shellfish, with oysters containing the most zinc. Alginic acid in kelp can also excrete cadmium from the body. Galacturonic acid in apples is quite helpful for detoxification. Consuming more milk and soy products, their rich calcium content is a useful "toxin remover." Additionally, pay attention to quitting smoking and reduce contact with cadmium-containing items such as batteries in daily life.

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