A Review of Recent Published Research on Nutrition and Fertility
Recent research has highlighted several new findings on the relationship between nutrition and fertility. Here are some of the key insights from a number of published papers:
Personalised Nutrition
A recent examination into the concept of a generalised or standardised diet to support fertility, presented some interesting conclusions for consideration. While we are fully aware of the link between nutrition and health, reproductive health being no different, there is a debate as to what interventions should be made and to whom.
“Growing evidence unveils how both healthy lifestyle habits and dietary patterns favour reproductive success. However, a specific “fertility diet” has not been yet identified and probably never will be. This is because each person is a unique individual, with its own genome, proteome, metabolome, microbiome, and exposome. This should always be addressed when choosing a nutritional approach, as for any therapy in medicine. In line with the concept of personalised medicine, nutritional support for the infertile patient should be tailored to the individual, aiming at ‘precision nutrition’.” (https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/14/9/1918)
Of course, when operating in any sector of healthcare, we should be keenly aware of their own individuality and this individuality can dictate how they respond to any form of treatment; nutrition is no different in this regard. The more tailored a dietary plan is to your unique circumstances, the greater the benefit. In saying this, don’t let perfect be the enemy of the good; eat healthily, drink water, remove the processed foodstuffs, exercise and build good habits.
Anti-Inflammatory Diets
Diets that reduce inflammation, such as the Mediterranean diet, have been shown to improve fertility outcomes. These diets typically include high intakes of monounsaturated and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, flavonoids, and antioxidants, while reducing red and processed meat consumption. Such dietary patterns are associated with better success rates in assisted reproductive technology (ART) and improved sperm quality. (https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/14/19/3914)
Low-Glycemic Index Diets
Low-Glycemic Index Diets: Diets low in glycemic index, particularly those rich in plant-based foods, antioxidants, and fibres, have positive effects on fertility. These diets help manage metabolic factors such as insulin sensitivity and oxidative stress, which are crucial for maintaining healthy egg maturation and overall reproductive health. (https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/5/1180)
Lifestyle and Metabolic Health
Metabolic disorders like obesity and diabetes, often associated with high-caloric diets, negatively impact fertility by affecting egg health and hormonal balance. Adjusting the diet to improve insulin sensitivity, particularly through a Mediterranean diet, can help mitigate these effects and support ovarian health (https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/endocrinology/articles/10.3389/fendo.2019.00346/full).
These findings underscore the importance of individualised dietary interventions and healthy eating patterns in enhancing fertility. For couples trying to conceive, incorporating these dietary principles might offer significant benefits to their reproductive health.
At Improving Your Fertility, personalising a nutrition, dietary and lifestyle regime is our speciality. You can book in for a free 15 minute consultation here!
References:
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Simon Alesi, Anthony Villani, Evangeline Mantzioris, Wubet Worku Takele, Stephanie Cowan, Lisa J. Moran and Aya Mousa. Anti-Inflammatory Diets in Fertility: An Evidence Review https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/14/19/3914
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Klaudia Łakoma, Olha Kukharuk and Daniel Śliż. The Influence of Metabolic Factors and Diet on Fertility https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/5/1180
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https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/endocrinology/articles/10.3389/fendo.2019.00346/full
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