Nutrition and Fertility

Kim,  Chi-Wha

Original Article

Korean Journal of Fertility and Sterility 1975;2(2):41-46.

Chi-Wha Kim

Ewha Womans University College of Home Economics

영양(營養)과 생식(生殖)

김지화

이화여자대학교 가정대학

Abstract

Careful scruting of the data indicate that malnutrition actually limits fertility. Spermatogenesis may likewise be impaired by inadequate diet, particularly one that is very poor in protein. For those who are underweight, increased caloric intake stressing high protein content is recommended. Included are supplementary vitamins, particularly B complex, which stimulate the appetite. Injudicious dieting by the woman to conform to current standards of beauty may also result in malnutrition. This contributes to faulty oogenesis and, in extreme dieting, may produce a long-standing amenorrhea. Obsity may also reduce fertility. Since most cases of obesity are due to over-eating, the full cooperation of the patient must be enlisted. And no device is effective for breaking up fatty deposits. Instead, a program of exercise is recommended. The treatment of both malnutrition and obesity is directed toward general dietary habits either weight gain or weight reduction, with a well balanced high protein diet.