Gene–Nutrient–Lifestyle Interactions in Female Infertility: Unravelling the Vitamin D–PCOS–Metabolic Axis: An In-Depth Review

Sanchari Chakraborty, and Barnali Ray Basu*

Female infertility, along with the decline of fecundity, is an alarming health concern of the modern era, which is predominantly contributed to by an unhealthy lifestyle, such as sedentary behavior and the consumption of junk food. Anovulation and reduced number and quality of oocytes are prevalently associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis, which can lead to reproductive health complications. A large number of global populations engage in a dormant lifestyle and prefer inadequate physical activities, which cause a reduction in reproductive fitness by impairing protein transporter activities and increasing muscle glucose levels.

Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) is linked to female infertility, such as PCOS, particularly through its impact on reproductive hormones and ovarian function. Research shows stronger associations in conditions like PCOS, a common cause of infertility. 

Junk food, containing a high amount of simple sugar and saturated fat, can lead to obesity and insulin resistance, emerging features of reproductive failure, by abnormally modulating the metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids. Optimum exercise and a restricted, healthy diet can modulate molecular, metabolic, and physiological activities, which can reduce the severity of reproductive disorders and rejuvenate fertility outcomes.

In this review article, the modulatory effects of a sedentary lifestyle and consumption of unhealthy junk food, highlighting the underlying molecular mechanisms of female reproductive disorders, have been narrated.

Keywords:

Published on: May 20, 2026 Pages: 4-19

Full Text PDF Full Text HTML DOI: 10.17352/gjfr.000031
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