UPFs consumption in women was not consistently related to the risk of subfertility and time to pregnancy, but was associated with slightly smaller embryonic growth and yolk sac size by the seventh week of pregnancy.
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The periconceptional period is critical for the probability of conception, pregnancy outcomes, and long-term offspring health, and maternal dietary patterns during this period may influence fertility as well as early embryonic development.
A latest study has revealed that the consumption of increased amounts of ultra-processed foods (UPF) have been associated with decreased fertility in men and women, slower embryonic growth, and smaller yolk sacs, necessary for initial embryonic development.
Lead researcher Dr Romy Gaillard, a paediatrician and associate professor of developmental epidemiology at Erasmus University Medical Center said, “Even though ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are so common in our diets, very little is known about their potential relationship with fertility outcomes, and early human development.” 1
The latest study featured in the Human Reproduction. According to the study, “The periconceptional period is critical for the probability of conception, pregnancy outcomes, and long-term offspring health, and maternal dietary patterns during this period may influence fertility as well as early embryonic development. No studies have examined the combined influence of maternal and paternal UPF consumption on fertility outcomes and early development.” 1
The present study included 831 women and 651 male partners.
Couples were included in the study during pre-conception period or during pregnancy between 2017 and 2021. Details on the parents' diet pattern and time to pregnancy were assessed using questionnaires.
Dr Gaillard said: “Our findings suggest that a diet low in UPFs would be best for both partners, not only for their own health, but also for their chances of pregnancy and the health of their unborn child. Our study shows for the first time that UPF consumption in men and women is associated with fertility outcomes and early human development, but also has limitations. Importantly, as this is an observational study, our study shows associations, but cannot prove direct causal effects of UPF consumption on these early life outcomes.”
"We observed that UPFs consumption in women was not consistently related to the risk of subfertility and time to pregnancy, but was associated with slightly smaller embryonic growth and yolk sac size by the seventh week of pregnancy," said first author Celine Lin, a Phd student at Erasmus University Medical Center.
"In men, we observed that (a) higher UPF consumption was related to a higher risk of subfertility and a longer duration until pregnancy was achieved, but not with early embryo development," added Celine Lin.
"This association may be explained by the sensitivity of sperm to dietary composition, whereas maternal UPF consumption may directly influence the environment in the womb in which the embryo develops from the start of life onwards," Lin emphasised.
Minimal intake of UPFs should be ideal for both partners, not only for their own health, but also for their possibilities of pregnancy and the healthy growth of unborn child, asserted Romy Gaillard.
Ultra-processed foods are industrially manufactured products that may contain ingredients rarely used in home cooking. They include preservatives, stabilisers, and flavours. They are largely low in necessary nutrients and high in calories, salt, and unhealthy fats. Regular intake of UPFs has been associated with obesity, heart disease, and chronic disease, and metabolic disorders.
Ultra-processed foods contain harmful chemicals like phthalates and BPA from packaging that may interfere with hormonal balance. UPFs lacks necessary antioxidants, vitamins, and zinc that are significant for sperm health. Diets high in processed foods can cause inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which have been linked to reduced fertility. UPFs can increase body fat that can negatively impact hormone levels and reproductive health.
How do ultra-processed foods affect fertility in men and women?
The study found that higher consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) in men is linked to a higher risk of subfertility and longer time to pregnancy. In women, UPF intake was associated with slightly smaller embryonic growth and yolk sac size but not consistently with subfertility. UPFs may disrupt hormonal balance and increase inflammation, impacting fertility differently in men and women.
What mechanisms make UPFs harmful to reproductive health?
UPFs often contain harmful chemicals like phthalates and BPA from packaging that may interfere with hormone regulation. They also lack essential antioxidants, vitamins, and zinc, especially important for sperm health. Additionally, UPFs contribute to inflammation, oxidative stress, and increased body fat, all of which negatively affect reproductive hormones and fertility.
Can reducing UPF consumption improve chances of conception?
According to the study, a diet low in ultra-processed foods may benefit both partners by improving overall health and potentially increasing chances of pregnancy. While the observational study shows associations rather than causation, reducing UPF intake is recommended to support fertility and healthy embryonic development.
How does UPF consumption differ in its impact on early embryo development?
The research indicates maternal UPF consumption can influence the early womb environment, leading to slightly smaller embryonic and yolk sac growth by the seventh week of pregnancy. Conversely, paternal UPF intake was associated with subfertility but did not show a direct link to early embryo development.
Are there limitations to this study on UPFs and fertility?
Yes, the study is observational, so it cannot confirm direct causal effects between UPF consumption and fertility or early development outcomes. It included 831 women and 651 men but relied on self-reported dietary questionnaires, which may introduce bias. Further research is needed to establish mechanisms and causality.
Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health or treatment options.
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