Vegetarianism is a popular food regimen that has become an innate part of many people’s lives. It’s a way of life that rejects the use of animal products.

Many reasons could necessitate one becoming a vegetarian, some of which include, health concerns, environmental reasons, or ethical beliefs.

However, some people argue that a vegetarian diet could increase infertility while some hold the opinion that it doesn’t have any adverse effects on fertility.

In this article, we shall examine the evidence and the arguments put forth by both sides of the divide to determine whether a vegetarian diet increases infertility or not.

What is a Vegetarian Diet?

A vegetarian diet is a food regimen that focuses on plant-based foods and excludes meat, poultry, fish, and seafood from the meal plans. Some vegetarians even take their dietary plan to another level – The Veganism option.

This food regimen involves the exclusion of every animal food and by-products, such as dairy, eggs, and honey.

The Relationship between Vegetarianism and Infertility

Many people believe that a vegetarian diet could increase infertility, and the argument seems plausible. According to findings from recent surveys in India, over ten percent of the population is vegetarian, and the levels of infertility are elevated.

However, there is no conclusive evidence to back this up.

In contrast, many research studies show that the benefits of a vegetarian diet on fertility are numerous, and could decrease infertility.

Studies have shown that women who consume more plant food, which is usually rich in antioxidants, have been found to positively affect fertility in women trying to conceive.

Reasons Why a Vegetarian Diet Could Increase Infertility

The following are reasons why a vegetarian diet could increase infertility:.

Nutritional Deficiencies

The essential vitamins that could be lacking in a vegetarian diet are Zinc, Vitamin B12, and Iron. These essential vitamins are crucial to the reproductive system, and its deficiency could lead to infertility.

Zinc, for example, is an essential mineral required for successful reproduction. Zinc deficiency has been linked to poor sperm quality, low testosterone levels, and testicular function, which could lead to infertility in men.

Vegetarians could lack this vital nutrient because plant-based sources of zinc are less absorbent compared to animal sources.

Vitamin B12 is another essential nutrient that is vital for fertility. Vitamin B12 deficiency can have long-term effects on the reproductive system, leading to ovarian function problems and low sperm count.

Strict vegetarians are at high risk of vitamin B12 deficiency because it is rare in plant-based foods.

High Intake of Soy-Based Products

Vegetarian diets could consist of high soy-based products to provide protein content. However, soy contains phytoestrogen, a plant-based compound that mimics estrogen in the human body.

High amounts of estrogen in the body could lead to infertility in both men and women.

Low Body Mass index levels (BMI)

Studies have shown that vegetarians could have lower Body Mass Index levels than non-vegetarians. This is because of the nature of vegetarian diets as plant-based foods are lower in calories compared to animal-based products.

Low BMI levels could lead to a decrease in protein and nutrient intake, which could lead to fertility problems.

The Benefits of a Vegetarian Diet on Fertility

Although recent studies are still controversial regarding the effects of a vegetarian diet on infertility, there are numerous health benefits of vegetarianism, which ultimately could positively affect fertility.

Reduced Oxidative Stress

Plants are rich in nutrients such as antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress; oxidative stress has been linked to infertility.

The antioxidants present in plant-based foods reduce the oxidative stress levels and neutralize the free radicals that damage the cells in the reproductive system.

Higher Intake of Fruits and Vegetables

Vegetarianism involves the complete exclusion of meat from the dietary plan and a higher intake of fruits and vegetables. These plant-based foods have been found to be rich in vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that promote better reproductive health.

Eating more fruits and vegetables has been associated with fewer incidents of infertility problems.

Plant-Based Foods and Balanced Hormones

Research studies have linked animal products with increased levels of inflammation and hormone imbalances, which negatively affect fertility.

A plant-based diet, on the other hand, contains less hormone-disrupting ingredients, which could lead to more balanced hormone levels in both men and women.

Conclusion

The debate on whether a vegetarian diet could increase infertility is still ongoing and controversial. While some argue that it increases infertility rates, others believe it doesn’t.

Studies have shown that a vegetarian diet could lead to nutritional deficiencies, high intake of soy-based products, and lower Body Mass Index levels, which could lead to infertility. However, vegetarianism has health benefits, such as reducing oxidative stress levels, increasing the intake of fruits and vegetables, and aiding in balancing hormones levels.

Therefore, while it is up to individuals to decide on what dietary plan works best for them, adopting a balanced vegetarian diet plan can contribute significantly to a person’s overall well-being.