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Many over-the-counter supplements and diets promise to increase female fertility, especially in IVF. A study now makes it possible to identify those which are really effective.
Complementary therapies and diets to help combat infertility are very numerous, including among women engaged in medically assisted procreation. To find out more about the effectiveness of these supplements and advice, Professor Roger Hart from the University of Western Australia and City Fertility (Perth – Australia) reviewed all the medical articles published on the subject.
Supplements widely taken for self-medication
The actual use of these nutritional supplements used in the context of in vitro fertilization (IVF) is largely unknown. But as Professor Hart points out: “Nutritional supplements are usually not prescribed, but purchased online or over the counter. As a result, it is impossible to have solid data on their use (…) but it is clear from online IVF discussion forums that these products are widely used and of great public interest“.
The nutritional supplements analyzed in the study were dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), melatonin, co-enzyme Q10 (CoQ1O), carnitine, selenium, vitamin D, myo-inositol, omega-3, Chinese herbs and several diets (as well as weight loss).
DHEA, COQ10, Omega 3, antioxidants… Which ones are really effective?
Many have been considered as adjuncts following a poor response to previous IVF treatment. There DHEA and the COQ10 appeared in studies to be more beneficial than control therapies.
Likewise, there is some evidence of a benefit from melatoninbut it is still not clear which groups of patients could benefit from it, or at what dose.
THE omega-3 fatty acids, often taken as combination preparations, are the most studied dietary fatty acids in the IVF literature, largely, Professor Hart said, because of their perceived benefits for general and reproductive health. Evidence suggests that omega-3 fatty acids “could be beneficial” to improve IVF clinical outcomes and embryo quality.
Likewise, the antioxidants are usually taken as combinations of supplements, but evidence from an analysis of previous studies (considering 63 studies) failed to demonstrate any benefit in terms of live birth rates.
The Mediterranean diet has proven effectiveness
The evidence for a Mediterranean diet is much stronger and includes several well-designed randomized clinical trials showing benefits on both embryo development and pregnancy outcomes (even with a diet program). six-week intervention).
Professor Hart explained that the common features of these favorable diets were those that included a high intake of fruit and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, fish and monounsaturated or polyunsaturated oils, but with an intake limited use of highly processed foods. “These diets are rich in B vitamins, antioxidants, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and fiber and are low in saturated fat, sugar and sodium“, did he declare.
NO to diets, YES to WW!
Don’t neglect the preconception exam
In conclusion, Professor Hart said a simple nutritional approach to facilitate conception via IVF would be the adoption of a Mediterranean diet. Using COQ-10 and DHEA before starting IVF may be a useful supplement for women who previously had a poor response to ovarian stimulation, while supplementing with omega-3 free fatty acids may indeed improve certain clinical and embryonic results.
Professor Hart also advised all women trying to conceive to take adequate folate supplementation and seek the advice of their GP or specialist to check their health before becoming pregnant (preconception consultation).
Slide: Foods that boost fertility