New research suggests that men who eat a diet rich in olive oil, omega-3 and vitamin D could influence their future children’s genes, with lasting health benefits.
A mother's diet around the time of conception can permanently influence her baby's DNA.
New evidence suggests that a father’s pre-pregnancy diet may also have a lasting effect. However, how this works has previously been unclear.
This study found that a six-week dietary intervention can affect the number of small non-coding RNAs in sperm. These molecules help regulate the activity of genes and could impact long-term health outcomes.
Researchers from the NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) were part of the study team. They worked with researchers from Singapore.
Their findings have been published in Scientific Reports.
Nutritional intervention
The researchers analysed data from 17 men involved in an IVF research study with their partners. They were all enrolled in the PREconception dietary suPplements in Assisted REproduction (PREPARE) study.
Half the group used an olive oil-based spread and olive oil for cooking for six weeks. They also drank a fruit-based drink each day that had been enriched with vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids.
The other half used a sunflower oil-based spread and sunflower oil for cooking, and consumed an ordinary fruit drink each day.
Sperm samples were taken before and after the six-week intervention.
The nutritional intervention with olive oil, vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids was found to alter the levels of particular small non-coding RNAs in sperm. Notably, it affected those that influence the activity of genes involved in fatty acid metabolism.
Previous studies in mice have shown that similar small non-coding RNA alterations in sperm can result from dietary changes. Evidence suggests these alterations pass a lifelong predisposition to obesity to the offspring.
Dr Mark Burton, a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Southampton, co-led the research. He is currently supported by a Postdoctoral Bridging Fellowship from the NIHR Southampton BRC. Dr Burton said:
“The findings provide important new evidence that sperm can carry memories of a father's diet and lifestyle.
“It is increasingly recognised that the so-called ‘epigenetic’ changes in the sperm can have a lasting influence on the health of the offspring. They contribute to risks such as obesity, metabolic disorders and mental health conditions.”
Improving life chances
Southampton researchers pioneered the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) concept. It emphasises the relationship between early life experiences and adult health.
Our research has shown that the preconception period is a critical time to improve the life chances of the next generation.
Professor Keith Godfrey, a Theme Lead at the NIHR Southampton BRC, was part of the study team. Prof Godfrey said:
“Our NIHR supported research has shown that care and support before and between pregnancies plays an important role in health disparities. This new research demonstrates the importance of promoting good nutrition for both men and women in preparation for pregnancy and parenthood.”
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