With an emphasis on fruits, vegetables and legumes, the Mediterranean diet has long been applauded for its multiple health benefits. Now, new research shows that it may also help overcome infertility, making it a non-intrusive and affordable strategy for couples trying to conceive.
Key Findings
- The Mediterranean diet can improve fertility, assisted reproductive technology (ART) success, and sperm quality in men.
- The anti-inflammatory properties of the Mediterranean diet can improve couples’ chances of conception.
- The Mediterranean diet is plant-based and includes whole grains, extra virgin olive oil, fruits, vegetables, beans and legumes, nuts, herbs, and spices, with red and processed meats eaten in small amounts.
Recommendations
- If you are looking to improve your fertility outcomes, consider modifying your diet to include anti-inflammatory foods, such as the Mediterranean diet.
- Talk to your doctor about how to make the Mediterranean diet work for you.
- Be patient and persistent. It may take some time to see results.
According to new research by Monash University, the University of the Sunshine Coast, and the University of South Australia, the Mediterranean diet, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, and legumes, can improve fertility, assisted reproductive technology (ART) success, and sperm quality in men.
The study identified that the anti-inflammatory properties of the Mediterranean diet can improve couples’ chances of conception. Inflammation can affect fertility for both men and women, affecting sperm quality, menstrual cycles, and implantation. The Mediterranean diet is plant-based and includes whole grains, extra virgin olive oil, fruits, vegetables, beans and legumes, nuts, herbs, and spices, with red and processed meats eaten in small amounts.
The Western diet, in comparison, is associated with higher levels of inflammation due to excessive saturated fats, refined carbohydrates, and animal proteins, making it energy-dense and lacking in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
If you are looking to improve your fertility outcomes, modifying your diet to include anti-inflammatory foods, such as the Mediterranean diet, could be an affordable and non-intrusive strategy that could potentially help you start a family.