Female Fertility and the Nutritional Approach: The Most Essential Aspects

Abstract

Infertility is an increasing problem that affects couples attempting pregnancy. A growing body of evidence points to a link between diet and female fertility. In fact, data show that a diet high in trans fats, refined carbohydrates, and added sugars can negatively affect fertility. Conversely, a diet based on the Mediterranean dietary patterns, i.e., rich in dietary fiber, omega-3 (ɷ-3) fatty acids, plant-based protein, and vitamins and minerals, has a positive impact on female fertility. An unhealthy diet can disrupt microbiota composition, and it is worth investigating whether the composition of the gut microbiota correlates with the frequency of infertility. There is a lack of evidence to exclude gluten from the diet of every woman trying to become pregnant in the absence of celiac disease. Furthermore, there are no data concerning adverse effects of alcohol on female fertility, and caffeine consumption in the recommended amounts also does not seem to affect fertility. On the other hand, phytoestrogens presumably have a positive influence on female fertility. Nevertheless, there are many unanswered questions with regard to supplementation in order to enhance fertility. It has been established that women of childbearing age should supplement folic acid. Moreover, most people experience vitamin D and iodine deficiency; thus, it is vital to control their blood concentrations and consider supplementation if necessary. Therefore, since diet and lifestyle seem to be significant factors influencing fertility, it is valid to expand knowledge in this area.

Gut Bacterial Composition and Functional Potential of Tibetan Pigs Under Semi-Grazing

“…Vitamins in the diet were supposed to have beneficial effects on women’s fertility ( Skoracka et al, 2021 ). Interestingly, the gut bacteria in pregnant sows appeared to be more correlated to the metabolism of cofactors and vitamins than the other two groups, and lactating sows appeared to have higher responses to bacterial infections, which may be more beneficial to improve the levels of maternal antibodies.…”

Essentiality of Trace Elements in Pregnancy, Fertility, and Gynecologic Cancers—A State-of-the-Art Review

“…Research published in Advances in Nutrition, a peer-reviewed publication, investigates female fertility and the nutritional approach, which is gaining popularity throughout the world. Skoracka et al, 2021 have identified a potential link for a holistic approach to improving female fertility and overall fecundability for females of childbearing ambitions [ 204 ]. It has been established that the consumption of trans-fatty acids, processed carbs, and added sugars has a detrimental impact on female fertility.…”

Potential Risk Factors for Isolated Hypothyroxinemia in Women of Childbearing Age—Results from Retrospective Analysis

“…Independently of how strongly modified risk factors contribute to hypothyroxinemia and infertility, they should be, together with all other nutritional abnormalities, eliminated in women of childbearing age, especially in those planning pregnancy [52].…”