Studies show that infertility diets are based on the pillars of healthy food intake
Summary
According to a human reproduction specialist, a good diet is essential to increase the chances of pregnancy, both naturally and with assisted reproduction techniques.
A good diet does not solve all infertility problems, but it can help a lot in natural conception and assisted reproduction treatments.
“We know that good lifestyle habits are very important to increase the chances of pregnancy, even when we recommend assisted reproduction techniques. And, in this context, diet is fundamental,” she explains. Rodrigo Rosespecialist in human reproduction and partner of the Mater Lab. “Several studies have already examined this topic and the most recommended diets have some points in common: high consumption of fruit and vegetables, priority to lean proteins and balance in the intake of red meat, also. replacing flour products with whole grains. This type of diet guarantees macro and micronutrients, with antioxidant action to improve the functionality of the reproductive system”.
One example is the Mediterranean diet, whose components include a high intake of fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, and healthy fats, and a low intake of meat and unhealthy fats. “Adherence to the Mediterranean diet has been positively associated with improved pregnancy outcomes with assisted reproductive technologies and natural conception,” the doctor says.
Another reference is the Dutch Dietary Guidelines, a dietary model that recommends increasing the intake of vegetables, fruits, fish, lean meats in balanced doses, whole grains and healthy fats. “Studies have shown a 65% increase in the adjusted chances of clinical pregnancy,” says the doctor.
Unhealthy diets
The doctor explains that, in addition to the indications to improve fertility, there are unhealthy Western-style diets. “Diets with a high energy density, rich in saturated fats, poor in fruits, vegetables and cereals, are associated with a 70% reduction in clinical pregnancy rates. It is advisable to follow healthier models,” Rodrigo Rosa emphasizes.
“The Western diet is commonly composed of excessive amounts of saturated fat, refined carbohydrates, and animal protein, as well as being low in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which means it is associated with high levels of inflammation. And we have ample evidence that inflammation in the body can affect female and male fertility, contributing to decreased semen quality, dysregulated menstrual cycles, embryo implantation failure, and other reproductive consequences,” the doctor adds.
In some cases, supplements may also be indicated. But always follow your doctor’s advice. “For example, about 40% of women do not metabolize folic acid into the active form, called methylfolate, due to mutations in the genes that code for an enzyme called MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase). This metabolic pathway is complex and in fact other B vitamins are essential for its proper functioning. Therefore, it is not enough to use only methylfolate without the other vitamins,” says the doctor.
According to him, ideal supplementation requires the evaluation and replacement not only of vitamins, but also of other micronutrients (mineral salts, essential amino acids and essential fatty acids). “Adequate supplementation must include other micronutrients and this prescription must be individualized (each patient profile requires different doses and compounds). An important tip: for better absorption of vitamins, the ideal is to take the water-soluble ones (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12 and C) on an empty stomach, with just water, and the fat-soluble ones (A, D, E and K) with meals,” says the doctor.
“But the best way to improve your chances will always be a healthy diet,” concludes the expert.
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Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
