When trying to conceive, changing your diet can be an effective way of improving your chances of pregnancy. Below are 10 diet tips that can boost your fertility:.
Eat a Balanced Diet
Eating a balanced diet is critical for reproductive health. It is recommended to consume a variety of foods including whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and proteins such as lean meats, fish, and legumes.
A diet rich in nutrients will help to promote a healthy reproductive system for both men and women.
Choose Complex Carbohydrates
Complex carbohydrates such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can help to stabilize blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation, and lower the risk of ovulatory infertility in women.
The consumption of refined carbohydrates such as white bread, pasta, and sugary foods can have the opposite effect. These foods should be limited.
Include Healthy Fats
Healthy fats are essential for reproductive health. Polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats such as those found in nuts, seeds, fatty fish, and avocado can help to regulate hormones and reduce inflammation in the body.
Saturated and trans fats found in processed and fatty foods should be limited.
Consume More Plant-Based Foods
A diet that is mainly plant-based can improve fertility outcomes in both men and women.
Plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and legumes are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and micronutrients that can help to regulate hormone production, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy menstrual cycles.
Reduce Caffeine Intake
Excessive caffeine intake has been linked to fertility problems. It is recommended to limit caffeine intake to less than 200 milligrams per day or the equivalent of one 12 oz. cup of coffee.
Avoid consuming energy drinks and other caffeinated beverages during pregnancy.
Avoid Alcohol
Alcohol consumption has been linked to infertility in both men and women. Alcohol interferes with hormone production and can decrease sperm count in men.
Women who consume alcohol during pregnancy are also at greater risk of miscarriage and can cause harm to the developing fetus.
Increase Iron Intake
Iron is essential for reproductive health especially for women who are trying to conceive. Iron helps to repair tissues and produce red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout the body.
Iron can be found in foods such as spinach, lentils, beef, and tofu.
Include Folic Acid in Your Diet
Folic acid is vital for fetal development. It is recommended that women who are trying to conceive consume 400-800 micrograms of folic acid per day. Folic acid can be found in fortified cereals, leafy greens, whole grains, and supplements.
Avoid Processed Foods
Processed foods are often high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and salt which can increase inflammation and disrupt hormone balance. These foods should be limited as far as possible.
It’s recommended to choose whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and lean proteins.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is important for reproductive health. Water helps to regulate body temperature and maintain proper hydration levels which are critical for a healthy reproductive system.
It’s recommended to drink at least eight glasses of water per day.