Although there are many nutritional supplements purported to improve egg quality, many do not have sufficient scientific data to support its claims.
More recent data has shown some support for use of DHEA (a type of precursor steroid hormone) for women with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR). The exact mechanism is still being investigated, but it is postulated that DHEA supplementation improves the hormonal milieu for egg maturation, leading to better quality eggs.
Another supplement is CoQ10 (Coenzyme Q10), which is a nutrient that may improve energy production at the cellular level. There have been some studies that show improved ovarian response and embryo quality in younger women with DOR.
However, as doctors, we cannot emphasise more on the role of a healthy and stress-free lifestyle.
For example:
- Regular exercise,
- A healthy diet with lots of fluids,
- Fibre/ vegetables and low in red meats/ saturated fats and sugar,
- Maintaining a healthy weight and
- No smoking constitutes the basis for a healthy lifestyle.
Adequate rest and sleep, and reducing stress are also equally important as well.
