Infertility is a growing problem that affects couples who are trying to start a family. A rising body of research suggests a link between female fertility and food. In fact, studies demonstrate that a high-trans-fat, refined-carbohydrate, and refined sugar diet can cause infertility. A Mediterranean-style diet, on the other hand, is beneficial to female fertility because it is high in dietary fibre, omega-3 (-3) fatty acids, plant-based protein, and vitamins and minerals. Let us take a look:-
Carbohydrates
Ovulation and female fertility are influenced by insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. Glycemic index and load are particularly important when it comes to carbs. Consumption of foods with a high glycemic index may promote insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and oxidative stress, all of which can have a deleterious impact on fertility and ovarian function. Insulin controls metabolism as well as reproductive activities; it can influence ovarian steroidogenesis and hyperinsulinemia, both of which are linked to hyperandrogenism and ovulation difficulties. Insulin is also the main regulator of sex hormone–binding globulin (SHGB) synthesis in polycystic ovary syndrome patients (PCOS).
Fat
Fats are an important dietary component that affect fertility. According to a study, a high-fat diet is linked to changes in reproductive processes, such as menstrual cycle length, reproductive hormone concentrations [e.g., luteinizing hormone (LH)], and embryo quality in ART (assisted reproductive techniques) cycles. Furthermore, it appears that fat composition is more significant than fat quantity. Another study found that even a 2% increase in trans fatty acids intake resulted in a substantial increase in infertility risk due to ovulation problems in 18,555 women planning a pregnancy.
Protein
Animal protein consumption has been linked to an increased risk of infertility owing to ovulation failure. As a result, plant protein consumption boosts fertility in women over the age of 32. The difference could be due to the fact that plant and animal protein have different effects on insulin and (insulin like growth factor) IGF-I production. When you eat plant protein, your insulin response is lower than when you eat animal protein. Protein intake, particularly animal protein, was found to be inversely linked with testosterone levels in healthy women. Androgens, such as testosterone, appear to play an essential role in the regulation of ovarian function and female fertility.
Coffee and Alcohol
A large number of research papers suggest that excessive caffeine use may be linked to a longer time to conceive and a higher chance of miscarriage. Caffeine consumption during pregnancy has also been linked to stillbirth, childhood acute leukaemia, delayed foetal growth, and detrimental effects on a child’s birth weight, as well as overweight and obesity in children, in a dose-dependent manner. According to the European Food Safety Authority, pregnant women and women who are trying to conceive can consume up to 200 mg of caffeine each day.
Kanupriya Khanna, a senior consultant nutritionist and dietitian with over 18 years of experience in treating infertility, can assist you in conceiving naturally. If you’re having trouble conceiving, she’s considered one of the top nutritionists in Delhi.