Researchers find ultra-processed foods may impact fertility

Health & FitnessFamily & Parenting
24 Mar 2026 • 4:12 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • A new study suggests that high consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) may be linked to reduced fertility in men and slower embryonic growth in women.
  • Researchers in the Netherlands found that embryos of mothers who ate more UPFs tended to be smaller during the first trimester.
  • The study, published in Human Reproduction, analysed dietary and pregnancy data from 831 women and 651 male partners.
  • The findings indicate that a diet low in UPFs, especially around conception and during pregnancy, could benefit both parents and the health of their unborn child.
  • However, some experts are sceptical, questioning whether UPFs are directly to blame for these issues and suggesting that other factors, like weight loss, show more significant results.

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