Studies into the links between glycemic index and fertility are not new. The connection between high insulin levels and disruptions in hormone levels (particularly testosterone in the case of PCOS) is well documented.
Now, a new study has expanded the nutrition question to include not just Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load, but also the dietary inflammatory index (DII) which has been studied more in relationship to cardiovascular disease.
The researchers found that all three of GI, GL and DII impacted fertility rates – with higher rates of infertility in women who ate poorer quality carbohydrates (simple sugars and starches/process grains that spiked blood sugar, compared to complex carbohydrates), and also foods that created higher levels of inflammation (namely processed meats, trans fats, processed grains, starches, and sugars).
Here is yet another strong argument for consuming whole, unprocessed foods to enhance the chance of fertility.
I hope you have found this helpful, and do let me know if you have any questions!
If you are hungry for more evidence-based information for your fertility or pregnancy journey, visit www.myhealthypregnancyplan.com for free webinars and complete programs.
And if you are a care-provider looking for evidence-based resources for your fertility or pregnancy patients, please get in touch with us at support@myhealthypregnancyplan.com, or visit www.myhealthypregnancyplan.com/ce-courses-for-naturopathic-doctors.
In health,
Dr Jocelyn Land-Murphy, ND
Terra Life
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References:
Aghaei, B. et al. (2023). Glycemic index, glycemic load, dietary inflammatory index, and risk of infertility in women. Food Science and Nutrition.