Experts warn over lifestyle-related infertility

DAR ES SALAAM: MODERN lifestyles are increasingly changing eating habits, with growing consumption of fast foods, sugary drinks, fried foods and other less nutritious choices, raising concerns among health experts about their possible effects on reproductive health and pregnancy.

According to consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH), Dr Nasria Nasor, infertility and pregnancy complications have many causes, including unhealthy dietary habits and exposure to certain chemicals that may affect reproductive health.

She said some highly processed foods and certain animal products produced using growth-promoting substances and other chemicals could expose the body to compounds that may interfere with normal reproductive functions over time.

“From childhood, both boys and girls are exposed to various chemicals through the foods they consume. Highly processed and packaged foods, as well as some commercially produced animal products, may contain substances that can affect the reproductive system. Over time, repeated exposure may accumulate and contribute to fertility problems later in life,” she said.

Dr Nasor said such exposures could affect both men and women, although they were not the only causes of infertility.

In women, prolonged exposure to certain chemicals could contribute to difficulties in conceiving or increase the risk of some pregnancy complications, while in men it could affect sperm count, movement and overall reproductive function.

She advised people to maintain healthy eating habits, including consuming fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes and other minimally processed foods, while reducing unnecessary exposure to potentially harmful substances.

Medical research has increasingly examined environmental chemicals known as endocrine-disrupting chemicals, which can interfere with hormones involved in reproduction. Such substances may be found in some pesticides, food packaging materials and industrial chemicals.

Although exposure levels and health effects vary, experts generally recommend reducing unnecessary exposure by choosing fresh foods where possible and washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption.

Dr Nasor stressed that reproductive health begins long before a couple decides to have children.

“Healthy eating is not only important during pregnancy. It starts from childhood because the reproductive organs develop throughout life. What we eat today may influence our reproductive health years later,” she said.

Beyond nutrition, Dr Nasor cautioned against the misconception that pregnant women should avoid all forms of physical activity.

She said whether a pregnant woman could perform particular activities depended largely on her medical condition.

Women with complications such as placenta previa, in which the placenta covers the cervix, may be advised to avoid strenuous activities because of the increased risk of bleeding and other complications.

For women with healthy pregnancies, however, moderate daily activity is generally beneficial.

“A pregnant woman should not remain completely inactive, but she should also avoid heavy lifting, carrying large containers of water over long distances, prolonged pounding of grains or other physically demanding tasks that may place unnecessary strain on her body,” she said.

Dr Nasor said many women in rural communities continue performing physically demanding work during pregnancy, partly because they started antenatal care late and might therefore be unaware of underlying complications.

She urged pregnant women to attend antenatal clinics early, saying timely care enables healthcare providers to identify high-risk pregnancies before serious complications develop.

Dr Nasor also addressed the misconception that pregnant women should avoid eating eggs.

“There is no scientific evidence that eggs are harmful during pregnancy. Eggs are an excellent source of protein and other essential nutrients that support both the mother’s health and the baby’s growth,” she said.

She encouraged pregnant women to consume balanced meals containing adequate protein, fruits, vegetables and iron-rich foods while following nutritional advice provided during antenatal care.

The specialist also addressed swelling during pregnancy, saying mild swelling of the feet and legs was relatively common because pregnancy naturally changes the way fluids are distributed in the body.

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However, excessive swelling, particularly when accompanied by high blood pressure or protein in the urine, could indicate pre-eclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication requiring immediate medical attention.

“Regular antenatal visits allow healthcare workers to monitor weight gain, blood pressure and urine protein so that dangerous conditions can be detected and managed early,” she said.

Dr Nasor warned that unsafe abortions could result in serious reproductive complications and maternal deaths.