Last Updated on October 31, 2023 by Aditi Gangal
Quick Take
A social media post claims that eating gooseberry improves fertility. The post further recommends women should eat it regularly. We fact-checked and found the claim to be Mostly False.
The Claim
A social media post on X, formerly Twitter claims that eating gooseberry flushes out toxins regulates the menstrual cycle, and causes hormonal balance.
Fact Check
What is gooseberry?
Gooseberry, also known as amla, is a fruit that is rich in vitamin C and various antioxidants. Amla is often considered a beneficial fruit for overall health due to its nutritional content. Additionally, we even found a fact check that suggest antioxidants present in amla might contribute to mood regulation, potentially aiding in managing emotions such as anger.
Can eating gooseberry improve fertility?
Not exactly. We found no scientific evidence that confirms eating gooseberry improves fertility. While maintaining a balanced diet and consuming nutrient-rich foods is generally advisable for overall health, specific claims related to fertility, detoxification, and hormonal balance require more substantial scientific evidence. We discussed this in detail in another fact-check that claims eating walnuts improve sperm quality. Also, menstrual cycles can vary in length and regularity for various reasons, including hormonal imbalances, stress, underlying medical conditions, and lifestyle factors.
However, there is limited scientific evidence to support the specific claims that consuming gooseberry is rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C and phenolics. So, it may reduce oxidative stress to improve fertility.
Oxidative stress happens when there’s an imbalance between harmful particles (free radicals) and protective agents (antioxidants) in your body. This can make it harder for your body to work properly, including your ability to have babies.
Menstrual cycle regularity and hormonal balance are complex processes influenced by various factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and underlying health conditions. Likewise, fertility is a complex process influenced by multiple factors, including hormonal balance, ovulation, and reproductive organ health. While gooseberry is a nutritious fruit, there is limited scientific evidence to suggest that it directly improves fertility or enhances the chances of conception. Fertility-related concerns are best addressed through a comprehensive approach, including medical evaluations, lifestyle modifications, and, if necessary, assisted reproductive techniques.
We further researched and found that the concept of flushing out toxins is often mentioned in alternative health practices. However, the human body has its own detoxification mechanisms primarily performed by the liver, kidneys, and lymphatic system. While antioxidants found in gooseberry may have potential benefits for overall health, the claim that they can specifically flush out toxins from the body is not supported by robust scientific evidence.
While a study suggests that certain nutrients, such as vitamin C found in gooseberry, may have a positive impact on reproductive health, more research is needed to establish a direct link between gooseberry consumption and menstrual cycle regulation.
The same has been informed by Dr. Puja Sharma, a gynecologist based in Delhi. She informs that “Amla or Indian gooseberry has vitamin c and antioxidants like vitamin K and carotenoids. Antioxidants can eat up free radicals to prevent cell damage. So, eating amla can be beneficial for a healthy menstrual cycle and support endometrial growth. However, it does not mean that people should rely on amla to improve fertility. They must visit a doctor to find any health-related issue”.
Also, in context with vitamin C we previously debunked another claim that recommends people to cure infertility with guava.
Besides this, hormonal balance is crucial for overall well-being, including reproductive health. While gooseberry is a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants, which may have general health benefits, its direct impact on hormonal balance is not well-documented. Hormonal imbalances can result from various factors, and addressing them typically requires a comprehensive approach, including medical evaluation and potential hormone therapy if necessary.
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