Fast food and processed foods may reduce chances of conception

Ultra-processed foods are:

• fast food
• ready meals
• sweet and savoury snacks
• foods with additives and flavour enhancers

In some countries, they account for up to half of the diet.

Scientists analysed the data:

• 831 women
• 651 men

In men

High consumption of such foods was associated with:

• lower fertility
• longer time to conception

In women

The association with conception was less pronounced, but observed:

• slightly slower embryo development
• smaller yolk sac size at early term

Details

Even small changes early in development can be significant.

Earlier studies have shown that such abnormalities can be associated with:

• premature birth
• low birth weight
• health risks for the baby

Important point

The scientists emphasise:

• the study shows a link, not a direct cause
• more data is needed

The results also show that health and nutrition are important not only for women, but also for men.

Why it matters

The study advises:

• reduce the proportion of ultra-processed foods
• pay attention to the nutrition of both partners
• especially when planning a pregnancy

Source

The study was conducted by scientists from Erasmus University Medical Centre (Netherlands).

The results were published in the journal Human Reproduction.