Can Diet Affect Fertility?
Nutrition and lifestyle choices have a significant impact on virtually all physiological processes within our bodies, influencing hormones and reproductive health.
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics notes that a healthy diet can positively affect fertility in ways that are not yet fully understood. Likewise, good nutrition helps prepare your body for pregnancy.
It’s important to understand there is no single magic fertility diet. Claims of quick fixes are usually gimmicks and most likely unfounded. There are, however, eating patterns that support reproductive health for both men and women (infertility affects men and women at similar rates).
By working with a registered dietitian nutritionist, you can build an individualized eating plan that helps you feel healthier, more energized, and may support your fertility goals.
What causes infertility in women?
Infertility is common, affecting roughly 20% of women ages 15–49. You are not alone. Several physical and environmental factors can play a role, including:
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
- Functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA) — often linked to extreme exercise, rapid weight loss, high stress, or a combination
- Hypothyroidism
- Poor dietary patterns
If you have been trying to conceive for over a year, please consult with your primary care physician. There may be underlying causes you are not aware of.
What causes infertility in men?
Both medical conditions and lifestyle choices can influence male fertility. Factors like substance use, body weight, heat exposure, and environmental toxins can all affect sperm production and motility.
How can an online dietitian support your reproductive health?
Our registered dietitians specialize in providing highly personalized nutrition care — online, from anywhere in the country.
Diet and lifestyle changes can help both women and men navigating fertility challenges. By working with one of our specialists, we can guide you toward the nutrition choices that best support natural conception and/or assisted reproductive technology (ART). A well-designed nutrition plan can also help reduce the risk of complications during pregnancy.
Together, we will:
- Review your current eating habits and daily routine.
- Provide a thorough diet and nutrition assessment.
- Offer targeted nutrition strategies for conditions like PCOS, thyroid disorders, metabolic issues, gut health concerns, and more.
- Help you reach a healthy weight to support fertility and complement your ART journey.
- Encourage appropriate physical activity and strength training — both excess and insufficient body fat can affect hormone function.
- Reduce reliance on ultra-processed foods, which research links to lower fertility outcomes.
- Work to lower the risk of complications during pregnancy and delivery.
Many members of our team have personal experience with fertility challenges and ART. In a world full of misinformation, “fertility detoxes,” and fad diets, we offer a judgment-free space to improve your relationship with food and your body. We use Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) to remove the guesswork — and make sure your plan fits your real life, whether you’re at home, traveling, or working.
