Nutritional Pathways in Metabolic and Reproductive Health

Reproductive and metabolic health are closely interconnected, with imbalances in reproductive hormones often linked to metabolic issues, such as insulin resistance, obesity, dyslipidemia, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Similarly, metabolic disturbances like insulin resistance and obesity can lead to reproductive challenges, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA), and infertility. An additional layer of complexity arises from nutrient deficiencies, termed "hidden hunger," which include the lack of essential vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids that further affect hormonal, metabolic, and reproductive functions. Despite significant research, the full scope of these interactions remains debated and underexplored.

This Research Topic aims to clarify how nutrition impacts the relationship between metabolism and reproductive health. By examining these complex connections, it seeks to identify potential causes and effects and clarify the role of specific nutrients in reproductive issues. The primary goal is to gain clearer insights into how nutritional, hormonal, genetic, and molecular factors work together to affect reproductive health, ultimately leading to better treatment plans.

To expand our understanding of the connections between nutrition, metabolism, and reproductive health, this research explores various related themes. We welcome articles that address, but are not limited to, the following topics:

• Pathways linking nutrition to reproductive health concerns, including genetic and hormonal aspects.
• How metabolic health influences reproductive hormones in both men and women.
• The role of vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, and gut health in reproductive issues.
• Micronutrients and their impact on the risk and progression of reproductive disorders.
• Other factors that influence these nutritional and reproductive connections.
• Individualized responses to dietary supplements in reproductive conditions.

We encourage submissions of original research articles, including studies on cell cultures, animals, and humans, as well as epidemiological and interventional studies, reviews, meta-analyses, and umbrella reviews.

Keywords: Reproductive health, Diet, Nutrition, Hormones, PCOS, metabolism, insulin resistance, obesity, reproductive hormones, FHA, infertility, hidden hunger, vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, pathophysiological pathways, genetic mechanisms, hormonal imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, therapeutic strategies, personalized nutrition.

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.