From the Research
High sugar intake can potentially worsen Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) by exacerbating insulin resistance and inflammatory responses in the body, as supported by the most recent study on the effects of excessive sugar intake on inflammation 1. OHSS is a condition that occurs when ovaries overreact to fertility medications, becoming swollen and painful. When blood sugar levels are elevated, insulin resistance may increase, which can amplify the effects of hormones like insulin-like growth factor (IGF) that play a role in OHSS development. Additionally, high sugar consumption promotes inflammation throughout the body, potentially intensifying the inflammatory cascade already present in OHSS, as seen in a study on the comparison of albumin and cabergoline in preventing OHSS 2. This can lead to increased capillary permeability, fluid accumulation in the abdomen, and worsening symptoms. Women undergoing fertility treatments should maintain stable blood sugar levels by:
- limiting refined sugar intake
- choosing complex carbohydrates
- staying well-hydrated
- following a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, as also suggested by studies on cabergoline's effectiveness in reducing OHSS incidence 3, 4, 5. This approach may help reduce the risk or severity of OHSS by minimizing insulin fluctuations and inflammatory responses that could otherwise compound the condition's symptoms. It is essential to prioritize the management of blood sugar levels and inflammation to improve outcomes in OHSS, as the most recent and highest quality study on excessive sugar intake emphasizes its role in inflammation 1.