organic fluid, also known as seminal fluid, secreted by sexual glands and other sexual organs of a male. Contains spermatozoa, proteolytic and other enzymes as well as fructose (2-5 mg per mL semen, more than 2.4 mg or 13 µmol per ejaculate) promoting the survival of spermatozoa and providing a medium through which they can move or "swim". Texture of semen can be thick, chunky or clumpy. It is usually thinner with more frequent ejaculation. Normal and healthy semen could vary in color from opaque white and transparent to slightly yellowish or grayish. Basic amines such as putrescine, spermine, spermidine and cadaverine are responsible for the smell and flavor of semen. It can smell somewhat like bleach or chlorine, slightly sour (some compare it to pancake batter), salty or even sweetish. Anecdotal evidence points to pineapple juice and other food ingredients in diet as sources of sweeter smell. Foul odor and smell is often an indication of infection, and so could be color (brown or red). Brown semen could be also caused by trauma, forced ejaculation and diets high in protein and vitamin B content. Deep yellow color could be also caused by infection, not ejaculating for a long time or foods rich in sulfur - like garlic or onions, and B2 vitamin. Vitamin C, E, folate and zinc can boost sperm DNA quality - at least in older men (44+). Omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts and honey are among quality boosters too. BPA (bisphenol A) found in polycarbonate plastic bottles and food containers, polluted air and smoking can decrease the quality of sperm.
