Many people who are trying to conceive may wonder whether fasting before conception impacts pregnancy.

They may have heard various claims about the benefits and risks of fasting, and whether it can improve fertility, increase the chances of pregnancy, or have negative effects on the developing fetus. In this article, we will explore the available evidence on fasting before conception and how it may affect pregnancy outcomes.

What is fasting?

Fasting is the deliberate restriction of food and/or drink for a certain period of time. There are many different types of fasting, including religious fasting, intermittent fasting, and prolonged fasting.

Religious fasting may involve abstaining from food and drink for specific periods of time as a form of spiritual discipline. Intermittent fasting involves alternating periods of eating and fasting, while prolonged fasting may last several days to several weeks.

Fasting and fertility

There is some evidence to suggest that fasting may improve fertility in some cases.

For example, research has shown that intermittent fasting may improve insulin sensitivity, which in turn can improve hormonal balance and increase the chances of ovulation in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition that can cause infertility. Some studies have also suggested that fasting may improve sperm quality and motility in men, although more research is needed to confirm this.

Fasting and pregnancy

While fasting may have some potential benefits for fertility, there are concerns about how it may impact pregnancy outcomes.

One of the main concerns is that fasting during pregnancy may increase the risk of complications, such as preterm labor, low birth weight, and fetal distress. This is because fasting can lead to low blood sugar levels, dehydration, and inadequate nutrient intake, all of which can affect the developing fetus.

Preconception fasting and pregnancy

Some people believe that fasting before conception can have a positive effect on pregnancy outcomes.

One theory is that fasting can help to cleanse the body of toxins and improve overall health, which in turn can increase the chances of a healthy pregnancy. However, there is little scientific evidence to support this claim, and fasting before conception may actually have negative effects on pregnancy outcomes.

The impact of preconception fasting on fertility

Studies have shown that prolonged fasting before conception can disrupt hormonal balance and impair fertility.

This is because fasting can decrease the production of hormones that are essential for ovulation and fertility, such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). In addition, fasting can also decrease the production of thyroid hormones, which play a key role in fertility.

The impact of preconception fasting on pregnancy outcomes

There is some evidence to suggest that fasting before conception may increase the risk of pregnancy complications.

For example, a study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that preconception fasting was associated with an increased risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and fetal growth restriction. Another study found that maternal preconception fasting was associated with a higher risk of congenital heart defects in the offspring.

Conclusion

In conclusion, fasting before conception may have some potential benefits for fertility, but it may also have negative effects on pregnancy outcomes.

There is little scientific evidence to support the claim that fasting before conception can improve pregnancy outcomes, and there is some evidence to suggest that it may increase the risk of complications. If you are trying to conceive, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider about any dietary changes or restrictions you are considering.