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| - Last Updated on September 13, 2024 by Nivedita
Quick Take
A social media post claims that cardamom is bad for fertility. We did a thorough fact check to term this claim as False.
The Claim
As per a post circulating on Instagram suggests that cardamom, a spice commonly known for its health benefits, should be avoided for at least three months by couples planning to conceive. It implies that consuming cardamom could affect fertility negatively.
Fact Check
Is there scientific evidence that cardamom harms fertility?
No, not really. There is no substantial scientific research or medical guideline suggesting that cardamom negatively impacts fertility in either men or women.
In fact, some studies indicate that cardamom has health benefits. These benefits include reducing inflammation, improving digestion, and even acting as an antioxidant. This popular spice is also rich in nutrients. These properties can be beneficial for overall well-being, which includes reproductive health. Also, a 2023 study on mice found that Ellettaria cardamomum extract (ECE) helped improve thyroid function. The study further showed that cardamom extract increased testosterone levels and sperm production in hypothyroid mice. The spice also reversed the negative effects of hypothyroidism on spermatogenesis (process of sperm cell production). This study suggests the potential benefits of cardamom for male reproductive health.
Therefore, cardamom does not appear to harm fertility. Avoiding it while trying to conceive is unnecessary as per available scientific evidence.
Does Ayurveda recommend avoiding cardamom for fertility?
No, this is not the case. Cardamom has applications in Ayurvedic practices for centuries. It is often popular for its benefits in balancing the body’s energies, known as doshas. Ayurveda promotes balance and moderation in diet, but there is no specific recommendation to avoid cardamom for fertility. Instead, it is considered a helpful spice for digestion and respiratory issues. While we are discussing green cardamom, black cardamoms are also beneficial for health, and they can be a part of your diet to enhance taste and nutrition.
Ayurveda usually focuses on supporting the body’s overall health, including reproductive health. According to our investigation, it does not list cardamom as harmful for couples trying to conceive. Therefore, the claim that Ayurveda advises avoiding cardamom for fertility is inaccurate.
We connected with Dr Mohit Sandhu, BAMS, CAD, CAC, PGDAKS(NIHSR, New Delhi), Certified In Ayurvedic Dermatology, Certified In Ayurvedic Cardiology, PGD In Anorectal Surgery (Kshar Sutra), Consultant Ayurvedic Proctologist And Pain Specialist (Agnikarm), Shri Shubhda Ayurveda Wellness Clinic, Gurugram, for his expert take on the effect of cardamom on fertility. He says, “From an Ayurvedic perspective, cardamom, known as Ela, is not considered harmful to fertility. In fact, it is recognised as a good sexual stimulant and is often used to balance the doshas, especially aiding digestion, which is key to overall health, including reproductive well-being. However, Ayurveda always emphasises moderation. While small amounts of cardamom, around 0.5g to 1g in powder form, are safe and beneficial, excessive use can disbalance Pitta dosha, leading to increased cellular catabolism, which may disrupt balance in the body.”
Dr Sandhu further continues, “Ayurveda usually promotes balance in diet rather than avoiding beneficial foods like cardamom. It’s important to focus on moderation to avoid over-stimulating the Pitta energy, which can create imbalances. For couples trying to conceive, it’s advisable to avoid heavy, oily, and processed foods that aggravate the doshas and instead focus on Sattvic foods—those that are light, nourishing, and easy to digest. Always consult with an Ayurvedic physician to ensure you’re maintaining the right balance and avoiding overuse of spices like cardamom.”
Can excessive consumption of cardamom cause issues?
Maybe, but only in rare cases and with excessive use. Like most foods and spices, consuming cardamom in moderation is perfectly safe for the general population. Overconsumption of any spice may lead to digestive upset, but this is extremely rare and generally occurs only if the spice is consumed in large quantities.
There is no evidence to suggest that moderate use of cardamom poses any risk to fertility or reproductive health. If anything, its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can support the body’s overall health, which is essential for fertility. Apart from this, we also encounter claims like cardamom water can cure fever, but this isn’t entirely true as per current scientific evidence.
One of the articles on social media website claims that a man has given birth to three children.
Should couples avoid cardamom when trying to conceive?
No, there is no need to avoid cardamom when planning a pregnancy. Any credible research or traditional medical practices do not support the idea that couples should avoid cardamom when trying to conceive.
In fact, many of the foods and spices that are part of a balanced diet, can contribute to a healthier body, which may indirectly support fertility. Unless otherwise advised by a healthcare professional due to specific medical conditions, there’s no reason to exclude cardamom from the diet while trying to conceive.
Dr Pooja Jain, a Senior IVF and Fertility Consultant at Apollo Fertility Rohini & Dwarka, New Delhi, shares her expertise on this topic. She says, “There is no strong evidence to suggest that cardamom or other specific foods negatively impact fertility or should be avoided by couples trying to conceive. A balanced and healthy diet is generally the most important factor in supporting reproductive health. However, certain foods may negatively affect fertility and are best avoided or limited. For instance, trans fats found in fried and processed foods, high-mercury fish like swordfish, excessive alcohol, and high caffeine intake can all reduce fertility in both males and females. Additionally, sugary drinks and processed meats have been shown to affect reproductive health negatively. Instead, I often advise patients to focus on nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Maintaining a balanced lifestyle with proper nutrition can help create the best conditions for conception.”
THIP Media Take
The claim that cardamom is harmful to fertility is false. There is no scientific basis or strong traditional advice that supports avoiding cardamom while trying to conceive. Cardamom can be part of a healthy, balanced diet when consumed in moderation. It may even contribute to overall well-being, which is important for fertility.
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