In a nutshell
This study investigated the effects of a diet based on Iranian traditional medicine (IRT) on fertility outcomes in women. This study found that IRT improved natural conception rates and in vitro fertility (IVF) pregnancy rates.
Some background
Over 10% of couples worldwide experience infertility. Genetics, age, diet, and lifestyle contribute to infertility. Previous studies suggest that diet and lifestyle changes can influence infertility treatment outcomes. For example, diets containing a lot of processed foods, sugar, and fat can affect the success of in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment.
Many systems of traditional medicine use food as a way to treat conditions such as infertility. One example is Iranian traditional medicine (IRT). The effects of IRT on the outcomes of infertility treatment are unclear.
Methods & findings
The IRT diet includes bread, grains, beans, and chickpeas. Olive oil, butter, spices, and cooked vegetables such as onions and carrots are also included. Meat and fish are limited, while cold and sour foods are not included. Fast food, pasta, and processed meat are not included. To go along with the diet, lifestyle modifications are also included. These include getting enough sleep, exercising, avoiding air pollution, and not drinking liquids with meals.
This study had 180 patients. 91 patients were in the IRT group. 89 patients followed modern diet recommendations (control group). Patients were asked to complete questionnaires about their eating habits and given counseling twice a month. Infertility treatments included IVF and intrauterine insemination (IUI).
The overall pregnancy rate was significantly higher in the IRT group compared to the control group (35.2% vs 12.4%). Significantly more patients became pregnant through natural conception in the IRT group (20.9% vs 2.2%). The average age of women who became pregnant was significantly higher in the IRT group (28.6 vs 26.4 years).
41 patients in the IRT group and 45 patients in the control group had IVF. After IVF, significantly more patients in the IRT group had a positive pregnancy test (40% vs 14.7%). Significantly more patients in the IRT group had a pregnancy confirmed on ultrasound (39% vs 13%).
The bottom line
This study found that IRT resulted in higher natural conception and IVF pregnancy rates compared to modern dietary guidelines.
The fine print
This study was conducted in Iran. People who are unfamiliar with Iranian culture may find it more difficult to add IRT to their diet.
Published By :
Complementary medicine research
Date :
Jan 21, 2020
