ABU DHABI: Fasting can help improve results in couples who have been unsuccessfully trying to conceive through in vitro fertilization (IVF) or have been in various forms of synthetic contraception, a leading fertility specialist has said.
According to Dr Monikaa Chawla, a reproductive endocrinologist and fertility specialist at Fakih IVF Abu Dhabi, “Fasting pulls out excess or synthetic hormones, cleanses the liver, alkalises the blood stream and reboots the natural hormonal process of the body.”
Diet analysis
She said, “Whenever we see a patient struggling to conceive, we assess their calorie intake and analyse their diets with the help of nutritionists. It is common to introduce caloric restrictions with intermittent fasting during the day to help the patient move closer to the ideal body mass index. Not just that, this helps flush out toxins from the body.”
She said fasting allows for all toxins to be removed from the cells, hormones to be rebalanced, the liver to metabolise any excess hormones.
“Inflammation is decreased, all organs are regenerated, blood sugars are rebalanced, immune system is boosted, nervous system is rested and the reproductive system becomes more balanced and ready.”
Dr Chawla said fasting is said to improve the total sperm count in male patients with infertility issues. It also boosts gonadotrophic hormone levels and the testosterone levels in fertile males.
The doctor said Ramadan is a great opportunity to focus on achieving a balanced lifestyle. “Through fasting you begin to learn how to manage your eating habits and improve self-control and discipline. This month requires you to challenge the digestive system, and by doing so you are able to break down and expel toxins from your body.”
Fertility can actually be boosted by the practice of fasting and there is no contraindication to fertility treatments during this period. Simple modifications in the timings of medications and injections can help you rub this process smoothly with good results.”
