Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of unprotected intercourse or six months for women aged 35 years or older. The physical, emotional, psychological, and financial statuses of infertile couples are tremendously affected especially after undergoing diagnostic and/or curative treatments. Human fertility is influenced by multiple factors including female or male, and modifiable or non-modifiable factors. There is growing evidence that nutrition may play an important role in adjusting fertility-related outcomes in both men and women. The objective of our study was to summarize the latest data on nutritional factors (specific food groups, nutrients, and nutritional supplements) that have an impact on female or male sexual and reproductive function. PubMed and Google Scholar platforms were used to collect appropriate articles for the review using several combinations of keywords (infertility, diet, dietary supplements, antioxidants, and beverages). Adherence to a healthy dietary pattern favoring fish, poultry, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, was related to better fertility in both genders. Despite the multifactorial etiology of sexual infertility, nutrition may affect the sexual/reproductive function in both women and men.

Background: Many studies revealed positive health impacts of the Mediterranean diet (MD) especially on metabolic disorders. Conversely, information about determinants of adherence to the MD are limited. This study aims to examine the individual and environmental determinants of MD adherence among adults in Lebanon. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out during July 2021 among a convenient sample of 326 Lebanese adults. Data from participants were collected via an online survey developed by study researchers, that is composed of 3 well-structured questionnaires: a) background questionnaire; b) Perceived Nutrition Environment Measures Survey in the Mediterranean Context (NEMS-P-MED), and c) 14-item Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (14-MEDAS). Results: Mean MD score in the total sample was 7.59±2.22, reflecting moderate-to-fair MD adherence. Older age and having a regular routine of physical activity emerged as significant independent determinants of better MD adherence. Equally, availability of whole wheat pasta, rice or flour and fish at home and perceived importance of availability of easy to cook foods at food stores showed significant positive association, while healthy food availability, and in- store characteristics had no association with MD adherence score. Conclusion: Future public health interventions aiming at promoting MD adherence among young adults in Lebanon shall take account of availability of healthy food at home alongside individual factors such as meal preparation skills and regular physical activity.

Purpose Many studies revealed positive health impacts of the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet), especially on metabolic disorders. Conversely, in Lebanon, recent information about determinants of adherence to the MedDiet are limited. This study aimed to examine the individual determinants of MedDiet adherence among adults in Lebanon. Design/methodology/approach A cross-sectional study was carried out during July 2021 among a convenient sample of 326 Lebanese adults. Data from participants were collected via an online survey developed by study researchers, composed of two well-structured questionnaires: a background questionnaire and a 14-item Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (14-MEDAS). Findings The mean MedDiet score in the total sample was 7.59 ± 2.22, reflecting moderate/fair MedDiet adherence. Consumption of fruits, vegetables, legumes and olive oil met the recommended MedDiet intake among most participants. Older age and having a regular routine of physical activity emerged as significant independent determinants of better MedDiet adherence. Originality/value Future public health interventions aiming at promoting MedDiet adherence shall target predominantly younger age groups of the Lebanese population and incorporate strategies to boost physical activity among target groups.