Exploring the Impact of Ketogenic Diet and Intermittent Fasting on Male Rats’ Testicular Health: An Analysis of Hormonal Regulation, Oxidative Stress, and Spermatogenesis

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the effects of ketogenic diet (KD), intermittent fasting (IF), and their combination on testicular tissue and hormonal changes in adult male rats. Twenty-eight adult male rats were randomly divided into four groups: control diet (CD), KD, IF, and KD combined with IF (IF + KD). Body and testicular weights were recorded, serum estradiol and testosterone levels were analyzed, and oxidative stress parameters and nitric oxide (NO) in testicular tissue were assessed. Furthermore, histopathological analysis of testicular tissue was conducted. KD notably enhanced body and testis weights and testosterone levels and reduced estradiol levels. Additionally, KD and IF + KD improved oxidative status by decreasing malondialdehyde and myeloperoxidase and increasing glutathione, catalase, and NO in testicular tissue. Histopathological examination showed enhanced spermatogenesis in KD and IF + KD groups. These findings suggest KD and IF may enhance male fertility via hormonal, oxidative, and histological improvements.