A recent study by Canada's McMaster University has shown that consuming ultra-processed foods negatively affects women's fertility. Researchers analyzed data from over 2,500 women who regularly provided information about their diets and blood samples. They concluded that women whose unsuccessful pregnancy attempts lasted for more than a year consumed large quantities of ultra-processed foods; these made up to 31% of their daily diet. Furthermore, the dietary patterns of these women were less aligned with the recommendations of the Mediterranean diet, which focuses on consuming plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. The researchers pointed out that although the impact may be slight on an individual level, in fully adjusted models, higher consumption of ultra-processed foods is linked to a nearly 60% decrease in the likelihood of pregnancy. Scientists explained that chemicals such as phthalates, bisphenol A, and acrylamides, which can arise from the packaging or manufacturing of ultra-processed foods, disrupt hormonal balance, which may explain the relationship between fertility and ultra-processed foods. Conversely, women who more strictly followed the Mediterranean diet had better fertility rates.
