Fasting Can Support Promil? IPB University Lecturer Explains the Benefits of Fasting for Fertility
Ramadan fasting has many benefits. In addition to body health, fasting is also beneficial for reproductive health and fertility so that it can support the success of the pregnancy program (Promil).
This was revealed by Dr Ganot Sumulyo, SpOG, a lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine, IPB University.
He said that the benefits of fasting for the human body in general involve the organs of the body, one of which is the ovaries. Fasting can improve the balance of reproductive hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, and support healthy ovulation by reducing insulin resistance.
“Fasting, especially intermittent fasting or Ramadan fasting, can provide considerable benefits for people with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), such as helping to increase insulin sensitivity, so that blood insulin levels become more stable,” explained the obstetrics and gynecology specialist.
Dr Ganot continued, decreasing insulin is important because high insulin levels trigger the ovaries to produce excess androgen or testosterone (male hormone). This condition can worsen the symptoms of PCOS.
“Fasting can also reduce Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and androgen (testosterone) levels, and help balance estrogen and progesterone hormones which can improve hormonal balance and support more regular ovulation and improve the menstrual cycle,” he said.
Dr Ganot explained that it is important for women with PCOS to maintain a regular diet and avoid blood sugar spikes.
On the other hand, fasting also helps improve male hormone health, especially for men with obesity, insulin resistance, or low testosterone levels.
“The important thing is to maintain the intake of protein, healthy fats, and micronutrients such as zinc and vitamin D while fasting,” he added.
Meanwhile, for men with sperm disorders, he suggests avoiding the consumption of cigarettes, alcohol, burnt food, and chronic stress that affect spermatogenesis.
Dr Ganot added that couples who are undergoing promotions during fasting need to pay attention to several things, one of which is avoiding fatty foods and excess sugar.
“Things that men with sperm quality problems need to avoid, based on various clinical studies and international journals, are fatty foods such as fried foods, excess sugar, and high glycemic foods,” he explained.
“Avoid ultra-processed foods, high sugar, trans fats, alcohol, and excessive caffeine. Pay attention to the ideal body weight because obesity and underweight can both reduce fertility opportunities,” he said.
Dr Ganot also recommends several types of food for couples with infertility problems that aim to improve reproductive health, sperm quality and ovulation, namely:
- High-quality protein: lean meat, fatty fish, eggs, tofu and tempeh.
- Healthy fats: omega-3, extra virgin olive oil and avocado.
- Complex carbohydrates: oats, quinoa, brown rice and whole wheat bread.
- Antioxidant-rich vegetables and fruits: leafy greens, berries, oranges, kiwi and papaya.
- Zinc sources: oysters, almonds and pumpkin seeds.
- Folate sources: dark green vegetables, lentils, asparagus, and avocado.
- Selenium sources (brazil nuts) and CoQ10 supplements.
- Dairy and fermented products: yogurt, kefir, and tempeh. (Lp) (IAAS/KDP)
