Unit:
ΠΜΣ Παθολογία της ΚύησηςLibrary of the School of Health Sciences
Author:
Asprogianni Maria
Supervisors info:
Καλανταρίδου Σοφία, Καθηγήτρια, Ιατρική Σχολή, ΕΚΠΑ
Βαλσαμάκης Γεώργιος, Ακαδημαϊκός υπότροφος, Ιατρική Σχολή, ΕΚΠΑ
Καραλέξη Μαρία, Ακαδημαϊκή Υπότροφος, Ιατρική Σχολή, ΕΚΠΑ
Original Title:
Η επίδραση της διατροφής στη γονιμότητα σε γυναίκες αναπαραγωγικής ηλικίας
Translated title:
The role of diet in fertility of women at reproductive age
Summary:
The present study aims to investigate the role of diet in fertility of women at reproductive age. We describe the beneficial effects of certain macro- and micronutrients on female fertility. In parallel, we focus on factors that negatively affect the reproductive procedure. The impact of body mass index, eating disorders and dietary habits on female fertility is presented. Moreover, we introduce several dietary recommendations and changes that seem to promote fertility.
The literature on the relationship between diet and female fertility has expanded over the last years. Intake of plant-based proteins, high-fiber whole grain carbohydrates, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, iron and antioxidants has been proved beneficial for female fertility. It has also been found that maintaining a normal body mass index is important for female fertility. Increased body mass index is synonym of obesity, one of the main causes of infertility. Similarly, a decreased body mass index has a negative effect on reproductive hormones. Another factor that plays a key role on reproductive functions is eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia, that are known to cause serious problems in women’s health.
This dissertation provides recommendations for improving female fertility and resolving infertility problems. The role of water consumption and the adoption of a healthy, balanced diet is underlined. We present the principles of the so-called “fertility diet” and suggest adherence to the Mediterranean diet for women attempting fertility. Based on previous studies, we refer to pregnancy-related guidelines and dietary modifications that are known to prevent adverse pregnancy outcomes. Indeed, many women make changes to their eating habits in order to align with the recommendations of doctors and to meet personal needs and desires. Finally, women are advised to consume optimal amounts of certain foods and avoid some others in order to ensure a healthy pregnancy.
Main subject category:
Health Sciences
Keywords:
Fertility, Infertility, Diet, Nutrition, Vitamines, Dietary fibers, Obesity
Number of references:
145
