Many factors can affect fertility in both men and women, and diet is one of them. The food we eat can either positively or negatively impact fertility.
Some foods can harm reproductive health by causing hormonal imbalances, affecting sperm quality, and reducing egg production. Here are some foods to avoid if you are trying to conceive:.
1. Trans fats
Trans fats are usually found in fried foods, baked goods, and margarine. They can cause inflammation in the body and insulin resistance, which can negatively affect fertility in both men and women.
Eating trans fats can also lead to an imbalance in hormone levels and reduce sperm count in men.
2. Soft drinks
Soft drinks are high in sugar and empty calories, which can contribute to weight gain and insulin resistance. Women who drink a lot of soda have a lower chance of getting pregnant than those who don’t.
Additionally, artificial sweeteners found in diet sodas can disrupt hormone levels and negatively affect fertility.
3. Alcohol
Drinking alcohol in excess can lead to infertility and miscarriage. Alcohol can interfere with the production of hormones that regulate ovulation and menstruation in women.
In men, it can reduce sperm count and motility, as well as increase the number of abnormal sperm.
4. Red meat
Eating too much red meat can negatively impact fertility. Red meat is high in saturated fat and can lead to inflammation in the body, which can affect hormone balance and reduce sperm quality.
Studies also suggest that men who eat more red meat have lower semen quality than those who don’t.
5. Soy products
Soy products contain phytoestrogens, which can mimic estrogen in the body. This can disrupt hormone levels and reduce fertility in both men and women.
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Men who consume a lot of soy products may have lower sperm count and quality, while women may experience changes in their menstrual cycle.
6. Caffeine
Drinking too much caffeine can negatively affect fertility in women. High caffeine intake has been linked to decreased fertility, increased miscarriage rate, and reduced sperm quality.
Additionally, caffeine can affect hormone levels and disrupt the menstrual cycle.
7. Processed foods
Processed foods are usually high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and preservatives, all of which can negatively affect fertility. A diet high in processed foods can cause inflammation in the body and hormone imbalances, reducing the chances of conceiving.
8. Non-organic dairy products
Non-organic dairy products can contain hormones that can negatively affect fertility. Dairy cows are often given hormones to increase milk production, which can transfer to the milk we consume.
Excess hormones can disrupt the balance of hormones in the body, leading to infertility.
9. Pesticide-exposed produce
Pesticides used on fruits and vegetables can contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals that negatively affect fertility. Exposure to these chemicals can lead to hormonal imbalances and reduce the chances of conceiving.
It is best to consume organic produce whenever possible to reduce the risk of exposure to pesticides.
10. High-mercury fish
High-mercury fish such as shark and swordfish can negatively affect fertility. High levels of mercury can affect hormonal balance in both men and women, reducing the chances of conception.
It is best to consume low-mercury fish such as salmon, shrimp, and tilapia as a source of protein instead.
