Associations between adherence to a Mediterranean diet and assisted reproductive techniques outcomes: a systematic review

Abstract

Globally, one out of six people of childbearing age experience infertility. Given the high demand for assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs), this systematic review evaluated associations between adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) and ART outcomes, as dietary habits can play a significant role. A systematic review was conducted by searching five databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science) for studies published from 1 January 2010, to 1 January 2024, in English or Spanish. Inclusion criteria targeted patients aged 18–55 and examined intermediate and/or clinical ART outcomes. Systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and animal studies were excluded. Of the eight included articles, four found statistically significant associations between adherence to MD and positive ART outcomes, including increased number of embryos, and higher clinical and biochemical pregnancy and live birth rates. Other studies showed conflicting results. There is a potential association between adherence to the MD and ART outcomes. However, the evidence is limited, emphasizing the need for further investigation.