By Dr. Sugata Mishra, Fertility Specialist, Birla Fertility & IVF, Kolkata
AMH, or Anti-Müllerian Hormone, is one of the key markers used to assess ovarian reserve. It helps doctors understand how many eggs may remain in the ovaries and how the body may respond to fertility treatment.
When AMH levels are low, many women ask one common question: can food increase AMH?
The honest answer is no. Food cannot reverse ovarian ageing or increase the number of eggs in the ovaries. However, diet can support the environment in which eggs develop. For women trying to conceive naturally or preparing for IVF, this support can be important.
Low AMH is not only about a number on a report. Egg quality, inflammation, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, vitamin levels and overall metabolic health also play a role in fertility outcomes. This is where diet becomes relevant.
A Mediterranean-style diet is often recommended because it focuses on vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts, seeds, lean protein and healthy fats. This pattern helps reduce inflammation, supports hormone balance and limits the impact of highly processed foods.
Here are five diet corrections fertility experts commonly recommend when AMH is low.
1. Correct vitamin D deficiency
Vitamin D deficiency is common in women with low ovarian reserve. A simple blood test can help identify deficiency. Food sources such as eggs, fatty fish and fortified foods may help, but supplementation should only be taken under medical guidance.
2. Add CoQ10-supportive foods
Coenzyme Q10 supports mitochondrial function, which is important for egg cells because they require high cellular energy. CoQ10 is found in foods such as oily fish, organ meats and whole grains. In many cases, doctors may also recommend supplementation before an IVF cycle.
3. Include omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation and support reproductive health. Good sources include fatty fish, walnuts, flaxseeds and chia seeds. These can be useful additions to the diet, especially when overall food quality is poor.
4. Check iron and folate levels
Iron and folate support cell division, blood health and reproductive function. Many women of reproductive age may have low levels without obvious symptoms. Instead of starting supplements on your own, it is better to check levels through a blood panel and follow medical advice.
5. Reduce refined sugar and ultra-processed carbs
High intake of refined sugar, packaged snacks and ultra-processed carbohydrates can worsen insulin resistance and inflammation. Stable insulin levels support better hormonal function, which is especially important for women preparing for fertility treatment.
Diet cannot change AMH on its own, but it can support egg health, hormone balance and metabolic wellbeing. When AMH is low, the most effective approach is to combine these nutrition corrections with timely medical evaluation and a treatment plan tailored to the patient’s age, reports and fertility goals.
