Intermittent Fasting Fertility: What You Need to Know
Intermittent fasting has become increasingly popular as a tool for weight loss, but scientists are now exploring its potential effects on fertility. A recent study found that intermittent fasting – fasting every other day – increases mouse litter size and raises NAD+ in aged mouse eggs (oocytes). But while this study suggests that intermittent fasting may not affect your sex hormones, more research is warranted to determine its impact on a human’s fertility.
How Does Intermittent Fasting Affect Sex Hormones?
Some animal research suggests intermittent fasting can negatively affect female sex hormones. However, new research in humans may suggest otherwise. It’s not possible to say for sure whether intermittent fasting will definitely harm your fertility, but we do know that restrictive eating can suppress levels of hormones needed for reproduction. A new study suggests that intermittent fasting could possibly be beneficial for weight loss, but it could also negatively impact reproduction.
Does Intermittent Fasting Increase the Risk of Irregular Menses?
Intermittent fasting can increase the risk for irregular menses, especially in those with high activity levels or low body fat percentage. This is because the fasting periods can reduce the amount of calories consumed, which can lead to a decrease in body fat. Lower body fat can affect the hormones that control the menstrual cycle, leading to irregular menses.
Can Intermittent Fasting Affect Fertility?
The research on the effects of intermittent fasting on fertility is still in its early stages. But some evidence suggests that the practice of intermittent fasting can affect fertility, particularly in women. For example, one study found that women who practiced intermittent fasting were more likely to experience menstrual irregularities than those who did not fast.
It’s unclear how intermittent fasting affects fertility in men, but one study suggests that it may reduce sperm count in men. More research is needed to determine the effects of intermittent fasting on fertility in both men and women.
When Should You Avoid Intermittent Fasting?
It’s important to note that intermittent fasting is not for everyone. People with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, should avoid intermittent fasting altogether. Additionally, women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant should not practice intermittent fasting. Lastly, if you have a history of eating disorders, you should avoid this practice altogether.
The Bottom Line
Intermittent fasting has gained popularity as a weight loss strategy, but its effects on fertility are still being studied. Some evidence suggests that intermittent fasting can affect fertility in women, but more research is needed to determine its effects on men. Additionally, people with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, should avoid intermittent fasting altogether. If you’re considering trying intermittent fasting, be sure to speak to your doctor first.
Does intermittent fasting have an effect on fertility?
Researchers at the University of East Anglia have cautioned that popular intermittent fasting diets may lead to fertility difficulties in the long run. Their study found that restricting food intake can reduce the energy available to create viable eggs and sperm.
Would it be beneficial to refrain from eating when attempting to become pregnant?
Fasting for a limited time prior to planning to get pregnant may be beneficial, provided a person doesn’t suffer from any health issues that would make fasting detrimental. However, it is not recommended to fast while actively trying to conceive.
Does fasting on a regular basis have an impact on a woman’s ability to become pregnant?
It is not possible to definitively say that intermittent fasting will have a negative effect on fertility. However, research has shown that restrictive eating can interfere with hormone levels and prevent the regular occurrence of ovulation, so engaging in intermittent fasting may pose a risk for those trying to become pregnant. Therefore, I would not recommend intermittent fasting for women looking to conceive.
Does fasting have any effect on the quality of eggs?
The findings from two new studies suggest that fasting may be able to counter the effects of aging on egg quality and quantity in older women, potentially allowing them to become pregnant. These studies even suggest that new eggs may be able to be created from the start.
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