Nutr Health

Ultra-processed foods linked to markedly lower fertility odds in U.S. women

March 25, 2026

An analysis of NHANES data from 2013–2018 including 2,582 women aged 20 to 45 identified measurable dietary differences between women reporting infertility (≥12 months of attempted conception) and those without infertility. Mean ultra-processed food (UPF) intake accounted for 27.15% of daily grams consumed, and average Mediterranean diet (MD) adherence was low (mean score: 3.35/8). Women reporting infertility had higher UPF intake and lower MD scores than fertile women. In fully adjusted models, higher UPF consumption was associated with 68% lower odds of fertility (odds ratio [OR], 0.32; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.14–0.75). While higher MD adherence initially predicted higher fertility odds (OR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.00–1.33), this association was no longer significant after adjusting for obesity—suggesting weight status may mediate, or mask, diet quality effects.

Clinical takeaway: When counseling patients planning pregnancy, emphasize reducing UPFs and shifting toward MD-style eating patterns to support reproductive, metabolic, and overall health—especially for those with obesity or suboptimal diet quality.

Source:

Baric A, et al. (2026, March 19). Nutr Health. Ultra-processed food intake and Mediterranean diet adherence in relation to fertility status in U.S. women: Findings from NHANES 2013-2018. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41854359/