Ultra-Processed Foods Linked to Infertility in American Women

Published in the Nutrition and Health journal, this study drew on data from more than 2,500 participants in the United States. Even after accounting for factors such as age, body weight, and overall lifestyle, the finding was clear that higher intake of ultra-processed foods was linked to lower odds of fertility.

The researchers discovered clear dietary differences between women who reported infertility – defined as not conceiving after a year of trying – and those who did not. Women with infertility consumed more ultra-processed foods, which made up about 31 percent of their daily intake, and were less likely to follow a Mediterranean-style diet rich in whole, minimally processed foods.

One potential contributory factor noted in the study is that exposure to chemicals commonly associated with ultra-processed foods, such as phthalates, BPA, and acrylamides, can disrupt hormone function. Interestingly, while adherence to a Mediterranean diet showed some positive association with fertility, this appeared to be largely explained by its role in maintaining a healthy weight. Although the study does not prove cause and effect, its results are significant in that higher consumption of ultra-processed foods was associated with roughly 60 percent lower odds of conceiving.

To learn more about the dangers of ultra-processed foods, see this article on our website.