Fertility • December 19, 2025

Diet and fertility

Tea Nergård Rønne

Clinical Nutrition physiologist

Research on diet and fertility is complex, and it is therefore difficult to be certain of causality. After reviewing the available studies and research in the field, we see that much points in the same direction. When we provide dietary advice to optimize the chances of getting pregnant, this is what we base our recommendations on.

Food and drink

We recommend everyone to create a diet with whole grains, a good intake of fruits and vegetables, fish and seafood, good quality fats/healthy fatty acids such as olive oil and omega-3, and a good use of vegetable protein sources and dairy products.

When it comes to beverages, water is always the best thirst quencher. Limit drinks with added sugar, and consider using artificial sweeteners as some results may indicate a negative impact on fertility in both sexes. There are some mixed results regarding caffeine intake in women, but currently it is recommended to moderate caffeine intake to 200 mg. There is no strong evidence to suggest that caffeine intake in men affects fertility, although some literature recommends moderating intake. Alcohol and smoking can reduce fertility in both men and women and should be reduced or, at best, eliminated when trying to conceive.

In addition to eating enough of what can have a positive effect, there are also certain foods that can have a negative effect;

refined carbohydrates
added sugar
red and processed meat
fastfood

There is no food that can never be eaten, but we recommend creating healthy habits and eating most of what can have a positive effect.

Grants

If you are planning to become pregnant, 400 ug folate is recommended from the time you plan to become pregnant until you are three months along. Omega-3 with vitamin D is also appropriate for most people, and some may need additional supplements, this must be assessed individually. In addition, a varied diet based on the national dietary guidelines is important to ensure adequate nutritional intake throughout pregnancy.

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Diet and fertility

Food and drink

Grants

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