In Nigeria, a large amount of food items from the northern part of the nation is grown with fertilisers. But not many women are aware of the impact of fertiliser on fertility and this is what this article is about.
One of the reasons foods from the northern part of Nigeria are grown with fertiliser is because there is a limit to how far farmers can go into the bush. There is incessant harassments and brutalisation of farmers by bandits.
As a result, most of them have limits placed by security agencies.
Therefore, the little land is used year-in-year-out and this requires that it should be reenergised with fertiliser to yield more.
Indeed, as the agricultural industry embraces the use of fertiliser to enhance crop yield, concerns arise about the potential impact of consuming food grown with these fertiliser on human fertility.
Again, this article explores the relationship between fertiliser use in agriculture and its potential effects on fertility.
1. Chemical Residues In Food
Pesticides And Herbicides
Fertiliser often contains pesticides and herbicides to protect crops.
Residues of these chemicals may end up in the food supply chain, and prolonged exposure may impact reproductive health.
In a study of 325 women undergoing infertility treatment with assisted reproductive technology, intake of high–pesticide residue fruits and vegetables was associated with a lower probability of live birth, while low–pesticide residue fruit and vegetable intake was not associated with this outcome (1).
2.2 Endocrine Disruptors
You see, certain chemicals in fertiliser act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with hormonal balance.
Disruption of hormonal pathways can have implications for fertility in both male and female (2).
Studies have shown that hormonal imbalances are the leading cause of infertility in women.
While this is so, hormonal imbalance is treatable.
3. Nutrient Imbalance and Reproductive Health
Excess Nitrogen
The overuse of nitrogen-based fertilisers can result in an imbalance of nutrients in crops.
Elevated nitrogen levels may affect the nutritional content of food and potentially influence fertility (3) .
Micronutrient Deficiency
While fertilisers aim to boost crop yield, an excessive focus on certain nutrients may lead to deficiencies in essential micronutrients crucial for reproductive health.
4. Soil Contamination And Fertility
Heavy Metals
Also, fertilisers containing heavy metals can contribute to soil contamination.
The absorption of these metals by crops may lead to adverse effects on reproductive health, especially with prolonged exposure.
In fact, studies say exposure to heavy metals may impact the female reproductive cycle and fertility (4).
Soil Microbial Balance
Changes in soil microbial balance due to fertiliser use can impact the availability of nutrients to plants.
Disruptions in nutrient cycles may indirectly affect fertility through altered food quality.
5. Antibiotics And Impact On Microbiota
Antibiotics In Fertilisers
Furthermore, some fertilisers include antibiotics to promote plant growth. Continuous exposure may affect the human microbiota, potentially influencing fertility-related factors.
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Gut Microbiome And Fertility
Disruption of the gut microbiome due to antibiotic-containing fertiliser may have repercussions on fertility, as the gut microbiome plays a role in overall health, including reproductive function.
6. Water Pollution And Reproductive Health
Runoff Contamination
Fertiliser runoff can lead to water pollution, affecting aquatic ecosystems.
Contaminated water sources may indirectly impact human reproductive health through disrupted ecosystems.
Nitrate Exposure
Also, elevated nitrate levels in water sources, resulting from fertiliser use, may lead to nitrate exposure.
Excessive nitrate intake has been associated with adverse effects on reproductive health.
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For instance, three cohort studies showed nitrate in drinking water is associated with an increased risk of preterm birth (5).
Recommendations And Mitigation
Choose Organic Options
Opting for organic produce can reduce exposure to synthetic chemicals present in conventional fertilizers, potentially mitigating risks to fertility.
Diverse And Balanced Diet
Maintaining a diverse and balanced diet, including a variety of fruits and vegetables, can help mitigate the potential impact of nutrient imbalances caused by fertilizers.
Bottom Line
While fertiliser have revolutionised agriculture, understanding their potential impact on fertility is crucial.
Balancing the need for increased food production with sustainable and mindful agricultural practices can contribute to a healthier food supply and, potentially, better reproductive outcomes.