Sadra Medical Journal

Association Between Ultra-Processed Food Consumption and Fertility in Men and Women: A Systematic Review of Observational Studies

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

Sara Hedayati 1, 2
Asma Kazemi 1

1 Nutrition Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran

2 Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran

https://doi.org/10.30476/smsj.2026.108461.1684
Abstract
This systematic review investigated the association between the consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) and fertility outcomes in both men and women. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases was conducted up to July 2025. Eligible studies included observational designs, including cross-sectional, case-control, and cohort studies, published in English or Persian that assessed the relationship between consumption of UPF and fertility outcomes. After screening 2,127 articles, 9 studies met the inclusion criteria, comprising cross-sectional and case-control designs conducted in various countries. The sample populations included women of reproductive age, healthy men, and specific groups such as women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Findings indicated that high UPF consumption was generally associated with adverse changes in semen quality parameters in men, including reduced sperm concentration and motility. In women, evidence was more heterogeneous. Some studies showed an association between UPF intake and infertility risk, which diminished or disappeared after adjusting for body mass index (BMI), suggesting BMI as a potential mediator. Hormonal findings were conflicting, with some studies indicating alterations in sex hormone levels in relation to UPF consumption, particularly in women with PCOS. In conclusion, diets rich in UPF might play a significant role in reducing male fertility by impairing sperm quality. In women, UPF consumption might be indirectly associated with infertility through BMI and obesity. However, further research is required to clarify these relationships.

Keywords

Food, Processed
Infertility
Junk Food
Sperm Motility
Sperm Count
Gonadal Steroid Hormones
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Sadra Medical Journal
Volume 14, Issue 2
Spring 2026
Pages 473-485

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