What Does Pineapple Do for Men? Fertility Myths, Facts, and Underwear That Helps

Written By The Mr. Fertyl Research & Education Team

Talking about male fertility can feel awkward, but it’s an important part of men’s health – and it doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. You might have heard some unusual tips, like the idea that eating pineapple could boost a man’s fertility (or even change the taste of semen). It’s a popular topic on forums and social media, often met with a mix of curiosity and skepticism. So, what’s the truth? In this friendly deep-dive, we’ll explore what pineapple really does (and doesn’t do) for men’s reproductive health, and then branch out into proven habits that do affect fertility – from diet and exercise to avoiding environmental stressors. Along the way, we’ll also talk about something you might not expect in a fertility discussion: underwear. Yes, the briefs vs. boxers debate has real science behind it, and choosing breathable, non-toxic fabrics (like bamboo) can make a difference for reproductive health. The goal here is to dispel myths, highlight facts, and normalize conversations about male fertility in a judgment-free, practical way.

Pineapple and Male Fertility: Myth vs. Fact

Let’s start with the big question: does eating pineapple boost male fertility? The short answer is that there’s no solid scientific proof that pineapple itself will raise a man’s sperm count or virility. Pineapple is rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants, which are beneficial for health and can help counter oxidative stress (more on why that matters for sperm later). It also contains bromelain, an enzyme with anti-inflammatory properties. These nutrients make pineapple a healthy food, but they don’t transform it into a fertility drug. In fact, fertility specialists have looked for any link between pineapple (often the pineapple core, where bromelain is concentrated) and improved conception rates – and found nothing conclusive. As Dr. Ali Ainsworth, a reproductive endocrinologist at Mayo Clinic, put it: despite some popular theories, there’s no published study showing that eating pineapple (or its core) improves the chances of pregnancy [1]. It’s “probably not the magic answer” to infertility. In other words, if you enjoy pineapple, eat it as part of a balanced diet; just don’t count on it to single handedly supercharge your sperm.

What about those other pineapple-related myths? One well-known rumor is that eating pineapple can make a man’s semen taste sweeter. While diet can have some effect on bodily fluids, this is more of a bedroom anecdote than a medical fact – and it has nothing to do with fertility. Another claim floating around online is that pineapple or bromelain supplements boost testosterone. There isn’t robust evidence for that either. Some preliminary research has explored bromelain’s effects in animals: for example, a 2022 study on male mice exposed to the chemical BPA (a known endocrine disruptor) found that adding bromelain improved their sperm count and testosterone levels compared to mice exposed to BPA alone. Bromelain seemed to help counteract BPA’s negative effects on the mice’s reproductive system. That’s an intriguing finding, suggesting bromelain has protective antioxidant effects – but it doesn’t mean eating pineapples will turn a man into a fertility superhero overnight. At most, it reinforces a general point: antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds are good for reproductive health, especially in mitigating damage from toxins. Pineapple happens to have those compounds, but so do many other fruits and veggies.

Bottom line: Pineapple is a nutritious fruit and part of a healthy diet. Its high vitamin C content can support immune health and, by extension, overall wellness. And indeed, vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps safeguard sperm quality by reducing oxidative stress. (In fact, a small clinical study showed that supplementing infertile men with high-dose vitamin C for two months significantly improved their sperm count, motility, and morphology.) However, popping pineapple chunks like they’re fertility pills is not a miracle solution. There’s nothing uniquely “male fertility boosting” about pineapple beyond its general nutritional value. So enjoy pineapple for its taste and vitamins, but for improving fertility, we need to look at the bigger picture of male health and habits.

Fertility Facts: Diet, Exercise, and Healthy Habits

If pineapple alone won’t make a big difference, then what will? The answer is more holistic. Male fertility - especially sperm health - is tied to overall health and lifestyle. Sperm are produced continuously (a cycle takes about 2-3 months from start to finish), and their quality can be influenced by a variety of factors in a man’s day to day life. This is actually good news: it means there are multiple opportunities to improve fertility through healthy choices. Let’s break down some key factors:

  • Antioxidants and Diet: As mentioned, antioxidants help protect cells (including sperm cells) from oxidative damage. Many cases of male infertility have been linked to high levels of oxidative stress in the reproductive tract. It’s logical to think antioxidant supplements (like vitamins C, E, zinc, etc.) might help – and some small studies and meta analyses have indeed reported improved sperm parameters with antioxidant use. For example, vitamin C and E supplementation has been associated with better sperm DNA integrity and motility in certain groups. However, larger rigorous trials have given more sobering results. A major NIH-funded clinical trial in 2020 tested a cocktail of antioxidants (vitamins C, E, D, selenium, zinc, folic acid, L-carnitine and lycopene) in men with infertility; after 3–6 months, there was no significant difference in sperm count or motility between the antioxidant group and a placebo group [4]. Pregnancy rates didn’t improve either. The takeaway? Antioxidants aren’t a magic bullet, especially if used in isolation. They likely help most when a man has an existing deficiency or high oxidative stress – and when they’re coming from a nutritious diet. Dr. Sarah Vij, a male fertility specialist at Cleveland Clinic, explains that while certain supplements (like vitamin C or coenzyme Q10) may give sperm a boost, they “may not be a game changer alone” if other health issues aren’t addressed [5]. It’s far more effective to improve your overall diet and lifestyle.
  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: One of the strongest lifestyle links to male fertility is weight and metabolic health. Research shows that obesity is associated with poorer sperm quality [5]. Obese men are more likely to have low sperm counts and lower motile (active) sperm. The reasons are both hormonal and systemic: excess fat can disrupt the balance of reproductive hormones (often lowering testosterone and raising estrogen, which is bad for sperm production) [5]. Obesity also often comes with increased inflammation and oxidative stress, which can directly damage sperm cells. The encouraging part is that weight is modifiable. Studies (and many fertility doctors’ clinical experience) have found that overweight men who shed some pounds – through improved diet and exercise – often see improvements in testosterone levels and sperm parameters over time. Even losing 5-10% of body weight can help rebalance hormones. So, if needed, weight loss is a fertility strategy. It’s not about fitting into a certain pant size; it’s about creating a healthier internal environment for sperm to develop.
  • Eat a Balanced, Nutrient-Rich Diet: There isn’t one “fertility diet,” but experts often recommend the Mediterranean diet or similar eating patterns for would-be dads. That means plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins (like fish or chicken), and healthy fats (like olive oil and nuts). This kind of diet naturally provides lots of vitamins, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory nutrients that can support sperm health. For instance, diets high in processed meats, trans fats, and sugary foods have been linked to worse sperm quality, whereas diets rich in omega-3s, antioxidants, and micronutrients are linked to better sperm motility and morphology. Dr. Vij notes that men should focus on overall nutritious eating and regular physical activity, as those have a bigger impact on fertility than any one supplement or “superfood” [5]. In practical terms: swap out chips and cookies for fresh fruits (yes, pineapple can be one of them!), veggies, and nuts; choose lean proteins over greasy fast food; and include sources of key minerals like zinc (found in beans, nuts, seafood) which is important for sperm development.
  • Stay Active (but Not to Extremes): Moderate exercise is beneficial for male fertility. It improves cardiovascular health, hormone profiles, and can help with stress reduction. Men who exercise regularly tend to have higher testosterone levels and better sperm quality than sedentary men – with a caveat that extreme exercise or overtraining (especially coupled with inadequate diet) could potentially impair fertility. The sweet spot is regular moderate exercise: think brisk walks, weight training, cycling, or swimming a few times a week. This helps maintain healthy blood flow (important for reproductive organs) and keeps body fat in check. One study even found that men who adopted a moderate exercise routine showed improved sperm motility after a few months, likely due to improved antioxidant defenses in the body. On the flip side, activities like cycling for many hours a week on a hard bike seat might impact the genital area via heat or trauma, so balance and proper gear are key. Overall, exercise = good, but there’s no need to start doing ultra-marathons for the sake of fertility.
  • Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol/Drugs: Both tobacco and heavy alcohol are notorious for harming sperm. Smoking introduces a cocktail of toxins that increase DNA damage in sperm and reduce their ability to swim. In fact, smokers often have lower sperm counts and more abnormally shaped sperm than non-smokers. Excessive alcohol intake (more than ~10 drinks per week) can lower testosterone and cause testicular damage, not to mention lead to liver issues that disrupt hormone metabolism. The rule here is simple: if you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your fertility (and overall health). If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation – a beer or glass of wine occasionally is fine for most people, but routine heavy drinking is a no-go for healthy sperm. Likewise, avoid illicit drugs, especially anabolic steroids (which some men use for muscle building) – steroids are basically synthetic testosterone, and taking them actually signals the body to stop producing its own testosterone and sperm (this is why steroid users often become temporarily infertile). Even cannabis, which is becoming more commonly used, has some research linking it to lower sperm counts, so approach with caution if you’re trying to conceive.
  • Manage Stress and Get Enough Sleep: Chronic stress isn’t great for fertility. When you’re extremely stressed, your body elevates stress hormones like cortisol, which over time can suppress normal reproductive hormone function. High stress has been associated with lower sperm quality in some studies – plus, stress can reduce libido and make sexual activity less frequent, which obviously doesn’t help baby-making chances. Finding healthy ways to cope (exercise, meditation, hobbies, counseling, etc.) can indirectly benefit your fertility by keeping your hormones (and relationship) on a more even keel. And don’t skimp on sleep: poor sleep or sleep apnea can lower testosterone and increase stress hormones. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep to keep your hormonal axis tuned. Think of sleep as the body’s reset time – that includes the machinery that produces sperm.
  • Be Mindful of Environmental Exposures: Here’s a less obvious factor: the environment around us is full of chemicals and toxins, and some of them can impact fertility. Exposure to heavy metals (like lead), pesticides, and industrial chemicals has been linked to male fertility problems. You might not work with such substances directly, but one thing to be aware of is the category of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). These are chemicals that can interfere with hormones. They’re found in some plastics, personal care products, and even in our clothing – more on that soon. For example, phthalates (used to soften plastics and found in some fragrances) and BPA (used in some plastic containers and linings) are EDCs that have been linked to drops in sperm count and quality. We’ve seen global studies suggesting sperm counts have declined over the last few decades, and many scientists suspect environmental EDCs as a contributing cause. While we can’t escape all pollutants, you can take small steps like: use “BPA-free” products, avoid heating food in plastic containers, opt for natural grooming products without phthalates, and ventilate your home when using cleaning chemicals or paints. Every little bit to reduce toxic exposure may help protect those all-important cells.

By now it’s clear that improving male fertility isn’t about one weird trick or food – it’s about overall healthy living. Diet, weight, exercise, and avoiding bad habits or toxins all work together. Next, we’ll zero in on one particular and often overlooked aspect of lifestyle: the kind of underwear you wear. It might sound funny, but it has real implications for sperm production and hormone health. And it’s one area where a simple change (like switching to a different fabric or fit) could make a meaningful difference.

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Heat, Chemicals, and the Underwear Connection

You’ve probably heard the classic advice at some point: “boxers are better than briefs for fertility.” This idea has been around for ages, and there is truth behind it. The basic reasoning is temperature. The testes hang outside the body in the scrotum because they need to stay a couple of degrees cooler than core body temperature for optimal sperm production. Anything that warms them up too much can impair sperm output. Tight underwear (like snug briefs) tend to hold the testes closer to the body and can raise scrotal temperature, whereas loose boxer shorts let more air circulate. Research supports this: men who routinely wear looser boxers have higher sperm counts on average than men who wear tight-fitting briefs. A Harvard study of 656 men found that the boxer-wearers had a 25% higher sperm concentration and 17% higher total sperm count than men who wore briefs or jockeys [7]. They also had more motile sperm. Importantly, men in tight underwear had higher levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) in their blood – FSH is the hormone that the brain sends to stimulate sperm production, so higher FSH could be a sign the body is trying to compensate for testicular heat stress by pumping out extra hormone. This doesn’t mean wearing briefs will make you infertile, but it strongly suggests that cooler is better for your swimmers. Switching from briefs to boxers is a simple change that may improve sperm quality over time. As the Harvard researchers said, it’s a “relatively easy change” to make when a couple is trying to conceive [7].

Heat doesn’t just come from underwear choice. Hot tubs, saunas, and long hot baths are also known to suppress sperm production (often temporarily). Many fertility doctors advise men who are trying for a baby to avoid soaking in hot water frequently. Even habitually resting a laptop on your lap can warm the testes if done for hours a day. The Mayo Clinic specifically notes that to improve or protect fertility, men should “stay cool” and avoid sources of prolonged heat on the groin – including hot tubs and saunas – and yes, opt for loose-fitting underwear to keep the scrotum from overheating [8]. Fun fact: the effect of heat is one reason why something like a fever can drop a man’s sperm count for a short time. The sperm-producing machinery in the testicles is just very heat-sensitive. Thankfully, any heat-related drop in sperm is usually reversible once cooling measures are in place, since new sperm are generated continuously.

Now, beyond temperature, let’s talk about the actual fabric of your underwear, because this is where things get interesting (and where modern innovation is offering new solutions). Your choice of fabric can affect both heat and potential chemical exposure. Traditional tighty-whities are often made of cotton, which is breathable but can trap moisture. Many modern men’s underwear (especially sport or compression styles) use synthetic materials like polyester and nylon blends. These can be comfortable and supportive, but they tend to be less breathable than natural fibers – potentially leading to more heat and sweat build-up. Moreover, synthetic textiles can contain chemical additives from manufacturing. In fact, studies have found that polyester fabric can sometimes contain residues of BPA and phthalates (chemicals used in manufacturing the material or printing designs on it) [9]. The Guardian recently reported that a variety of chemicals in clothing – including BPA, PFAS, and phthalates – are known to mimic hormones and disrupt the endocrine system, with possible health effects ranging from weight changes to infertility [9]. Considering underwear is worn against the skin of a very sensitive area, it makes sense to minimize contact with such chemicals if possible. In some startling tests, even brands of polyester athletic wear were found to contain BPA at levels well above safe limits [9]. It’s no wonder that health-conscious consumers are looking twice at what their undergarments are made of.

So, we have two issues with typical tight, synthetic underwear: heat and chemical exposure. Does that mean you should ditch underwear altogether? Not exactly (unless you’re comfy going commando!). Instead, it means choosing the right kind of underwear – both in fit and in fabric.

Choosing Underwear that Helps (Mr. Fertyl’s Bamboo Solution)

By now it’s clear that men’s underwear isn’t just a fashion choice; it can be a part of your fertility and health strategy. The ideal fertility-friendly underwear would be: 1) breathable and cool, 2) supportive but not too tight, and 3) made from non-toxic, natural materials. This is where materials like Bamboo Lyocell come into play. Bamboo fabric (often labeled as bamboo viscose or Bamboo Lyocell) has been gaining popularity for its softness and sustainability – and it turns out to be great for male comfort too. Bamboo-derived textiles are highly breathable and moisture-wicking, meaning they help evaporate sweat and keep the skin cooler and drier than many synthetic fabrics. This can help prevent that “greenhouse effect” in your groin that you get with polyesters. Also, bamboo fabric is naturally gentle on skin and often hypoallergenic; it doesn’t require harsh chemical treatments to be smooth. High-quality bamboo underwear (like those made by Mr. Fertyl) are produced with non-toxic processes and dyes, so you’re not exposing such a sensitive area to random residues of endocrine disruptors. In short, Bamboo Lyocell checks all the boxes for fertility-friendly underwear: it keeps you cool, dry, and avoids unwanted chemicals.

Mr. Fertyl’s Bamboo Lyocell underwear line was actually created with male reproductive health in mind. The founders recognized that something as simple as what you wear every day could be optimized to support fertility. The result is underwear that feels extremely soft (bamboo fibers are finer than cotton), fits comfortably without squeezing, and “breathes” so that heat isn’t trapped. Bamboo Lyocell also has the benefit of being sustainable – bamboo plants grow fast without needing a lot of pesticides – and the Lyocell process uses a closed-loop system to recycle water and solvents. From a health perspective, the final fabric is OEKO-TEX® certified, meaning it’s tested to be free of harmful levels of over 100 substances. You won’t find BPA or phthalates lurking in these undies! The idea is to create a cool, safe micro-environment for your guys, giving your sperm the best chance to thrive.

It’s worth noting that while no clothing item can guarantee a fertility boost, using something like our bamboo underwear in combination with the other healthy habits we discussed (good diet, exercise, etc.) can remove some potential barriers to fertility. Think of it this way: if you’re working on improving your sperm count, you don’t want tight, heat-trapping, chemical-leaching underwear working against you every day. You’d rather have underwear working for you – keeping your testicular temperature optimal and avoiding any exposure that could throw off your hormones. And even if you’re not actively trying to conceive, wearing breathable, non-toxic underwear is a plus for overall testicular health and comfort (who likes sweaty discomfort down there, anyway?).

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Conclusion:

In summary, the question “What does pineapple do for men?” opened up a broader exploration of male fertility myths and facts. We learned that while pineapple is healthy and full of antioxidants like vitamin C (which are good for sperm health), it’s not a miracle fertility food. There’s no special shortcut in a pineapple that will raise testosterone or sperm counts beyond the general benefits of good nutrition. However, this myth leads us to the valuable truth that overall diet and lifestyle are crucial for male fertility. By focusing on a balanced diet (plenty of fruits, veggies, lean protein, whole grains), staying at a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol, most men can improve their reproductive health. We also highlighted how environmental factors – from the heat of a hot tub to the chemicals in plastics – can impact sperm. This is where being mindful of things like keeping your groin cool and free from toxins comes in.

Underwear, surprisingly, sits at the intersection of those concerns. It can cause overheating if it’s too tight or not breathable, and it can expose you to chemicals if it’s made from treated synthetics. Choosing underwear made from natural, breathable fibers like bamboo or cotton, in a comfortable fit, is a simple change that can support your fertility goals (and as a bonus, it’s usually more comfortable for everyday wear!). Mr. Fertyl’s bamboo underwear is a great example of a product addressing this need – it’s designed to keep you cool and confident that you’re doing something good for your reproductive health, all without any kind of medical intervention.

At the end of the day, talking about male fertility shouldn’t be taboo or embarrassing. It’s part of overall health and it’s influenced by everyday choices. So, whether you’re munching on pineapple, working up a sweat at the gym, or slipping on a pair of breezy bamboo boxers in the morning, remember that these little things contribute to the bigger picture of your fertility and wellbeing. Stay informed, make healthy choices, and don’t fall for the wild myths without evidence. Fertility is a journey – sometimes a challenging one – but with open conversations and a bit of lifestyle tweaking, men can take proactive steps toward better reproductive health.

  1. Ainsworth, A. (2025). Can French fries increase your fertility? Navigating the myths of conceiving, risk factors, and proper nourishment. Mayo Clinic Press. Source.
  2. Akmal, M., Qadri, J. Q., Al-Waili, N. S., Thangal, S., Haq, A., & Saloom, K. S. (2006). Improvement in human semen quality after oral supplementation of vitamin C. Journal of Medicinal Food, 9(3), 440–442. Source.
  3. Khazaeel, K., Al-Mutairi, M. S., & Al-Daihan, S. K. (2022). Effect of bromelain on sperm quality, testicular oxidative stress and expression of oestrogen receptors in bisphenol-A treated male mice. Andrologia, 54(9), e14584. Source.
  4. National Institutes of Health. (2020). Antioxidant supplements do not improve male fertility, NIH study suggests. NIH News Release. Source.
  5. Vij, S. (2021). Struggling to become a father? What you eat may matter. Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials. Source.
  6. Szalinski, C. (2024). Are sperm counts really declining? Scientific American. Source.
  7. Datz, T. (2018). Boxers or briefs? Prospective dads have an easy choice. Harvard Gazette. Source.
  8. Mayo Clinic Staff. (n.d.). Healthy sperm: Improving your fertility. Mayo Clinic. Source.
  9. Wicker, A. (2023). Are your clothes making you sick? The opaque world of chemicals in fashion. The Guardian. Source.
  10. Mount Sinai Health Library. (2020). Infertility in men – Lifestyle tips. Mount Sinai. Source.