A new study led by Boston University School of Public Health (BUSPH) researchers has found that the intake of one or more sugar-sweetened beverages per day — by either partner — is associated with a decreased chance of getting pregnant. The study was published in Epidemiology.
While following a healthy diet, men should consume no more than 9 tsps (37.5 grams) of sugar daily and women should consume no more than 6 tsps (25 grams).
An average American drinks 500 cans (One can of soda contains 10 tsps of sugar) every year. That is 52 pounds of sugar consumed in soft drinks alone.
The amount of added sugar in our diet has increased dramatically over the last 50 years. Much of that increase comes from higher intake of sugar-sweetened beverages, which constitute approximately one-third of the total added sugar consumption in the an average diet. While consumption of these beverages has been linked to weight gain, type 2 diabetes, early menstruation, and poor semen quality, few studies have directly investigated the relationship between sugary drinks and fertility. Sugar-sweetened beverages have been associated with poor semen quality in cross-sectional studies, and female soda intake has been associated with lower fecundability in some, but not all, studies.
The researchers surveyed 3,828 women aged 21 to 45 living in the United States or Canada and 1,045 of their male partners. Participants completed a comprehensive baseline survey on medical history, lifestyle factors, and diet, including their intake of sugar-sweetened beverages. Female participants then completed a follow-up questionnaire every two months for up to 12 months or until pregnancy occurred.
Both female and male intake of sugar-sweetened beverages was associated with 20 percent reduced fecundability, the average monthly probability of conception. Females who consumed at least one soda per day had 25 percent lower fecundability; male consumption was associated with 33 percent lower fecundability. Intake of energy drinks was related to even larger reductions in fertility, although the results were based on small numbers of consumers. Little association was found between intake of fruit juices or diet sodas and fertility.
If you wish to prevent this swap sugary drinks with healthy drinks, like, Kombucha, a naturally fermented tea that is loaded with potential health benefits thanks to its high probiotic count, sparkling water or low-sodium club soda. Make your own fruit- and herb-infused water and get the benefits of natural antioxidants, fiber, and flavor you can feel good about. Have fresh vegetable juice on occasion, but even better, enjoy a generous serving of brightly colored vegetables at every meal whether they’re in a salad or lightly steamed, etc.