The Shocking Impact of Body Energy Reserves on Fertility: What Science Reveals

Posted on 30 June 2025 by Priya Nair — 4 min

Did you know that the energy your body stores can directly influence your chances of conception? It’s a surprising link that recent research has shed light on, and it might change how you approach your fertility journey. If you’ve been trying to conceive or just curious about the science behind fertility, this is something you can’t afford to miss.

A study published in PLOS ONE titled “The bovine oviductal environment and composition are negatively affected by elevated body energy reserves” explored how body energy reserves (BER) impact the reproductive environment—but here’s the catch: the study was conducted on Nellore cows. Why should that matter to us humans? Because the underlying biological mechanisms affecting fertility have striking similarities across mammals, offering us a window into how our own bodies might respond.

What Are Body Energy Reserves and Why Do They Matter?

Body energy reserves refer to the stored energy in fat and muscle tissue. In the study, cows with elevated BER (meaning they had higher fat and energy stores) showed a disrupted oviductal environment—the place where fertilization occurs. This environment is crucial because it supports sperm survival, egg fertilization, and early embryo development.

The outcome? High BER was linked to a detrimental change in the biochemical and cellular makeup of this vital reproductive zone. In simpler terms, when the energy stores balloon, the oviductal environment becomes less hospitable to fertilization.

How Can This Insight Translate to Human Fertility?

Human fertility is influenced by many factors, including nutrition and body composition. While many focus on weight extremes—like being underweight or obese—as barriers to conception, this study reinforces that even the body's internal energetic state at a cellular level matters profoundly.

This is why nutrition and body energy balance take center stage in fertility discussions, and why lifestyle factors deserve your attention.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you’re on your path to parenthood, understanding the role of your body’s energy reserves can be a game-changer. It’s not just about the number on the scale but how your body stores and uses energy at a cellular level—factors that may affect the delicate reproductive environment.

Here are some actionable tips:

Focus on balanced nutrition: Emphasize whole foods rich in antioxidants and healthy fats that support reproductive health.
Maintain a healthy body composition: Not necessarily “thin,” but balanced energy reserves that support optimal reproductive function.
Consult fertility technology options: Products like MakeAMom’s at-home insemination kits offer practical, discreet, and cost-effective ways to support your conception efforts, especially if you’re navigating complex fertility conditions influenced by body composition.

The Intersection of Science and Technology: How MakeAMom Supports Your Journey

Understanding physiological nuances like body energy reserves is just the beginning. You need tools that adapt to your unique needs. MakeAMom’s product line includes specialized kits designed for different sperm conditions, such as low motility or sensitivities—each crafted to optimize the chances of conception in the comfort of your home. Their reusable kits are not only cost-effective but come with discreet packaging, respecting your privacy every step of the way.

Wrapping It Up: What’s Next?

The science is clear—your body’s energetic state is a powerful player in your fertility story. By aligning your nutrition, lifestyle, and fertility technology choices, you significantly boost your odds of success.

Are you paying enough attention to what your body’s energy reserves are telling you? Have you tried integrating lifestyle changes or fertility tools that acknowledge this critical factor?

We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Drop a comment below, share this post with someone who might benefit, and let’s continue unraveling the fascinating science of fertility together.

Embark on your journey armed with knowledge, support, and the right tools, because conception is as much about understanding your body as it is about hope.