Abstract
Background: Refined sugar is a widely consumed dietary component implicated in numerous health complications, including reproductive dysfunction. Despite growing concern over its endocrine-disrupting potential, the reversibility of its impact on male reproductive parameters remains underexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of oral refined sugar consumption on male reproductive parameters in Wistar rats and investigate the role of sugar cessation in potential recovery. Method: Forty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into eight groups (n=5): control, three treatment groups (low, medium, and high sugar doses), and corresponding cessation groups. Sugar dissolved in distilled water was administered orally using an oropharyngeal cannula for four weeks, followed by four weeks of withdrawal in cessation groups. Reproductive parameters were assessed. Results: Refined sugar consumption resulted in statistically significant (p<0.05), dose-dependent reductions in relative testicular and epididymal weights, sperm count, motility, and morphology. Statistically significant hormonal disruptions were also observed, including reduced testosterone, LH, and FSH levels, and increased estradiol (p<0.05). Additionally, histological analysis revealed testicular degeneration, vacuolization, and necrosis in all treatment groups. Notably, cessation groups showed partial recovery across most parameters, particularly in the high-dose cessation group with statistically significant improvements (p<0.05) in sperm count and motility, reduced percentage of abnormal morphology and increased levels of testosterone, LH and FSH. Conclusion: It was concluded that prolonged refined sugar intake impairs male reproductive health through structural and hormonal disruptions. However, cessation demonstrates potential for partial recovery, underscoring the importance of dietary intervention in preserving male fertility