Have you ever heard of the phrase “you are what you eat”? This phrase is especially true when it comes to fertility.
What you put into your body can affect your reproductive organs, potentially preventing you from getting pregnant or causing infertility. The Ovary and Sperm Killer Diet refers to a diet that can have negative effects on your ovaries and sperm, making it harder for you and your partner to conceive. Here are some foods to avoid or limit in your diet if you’re trying to get pregnant.
Sugar and Processed Foods
Foods high in sugar and processed foods can cause inflammation in the body, which can lead to problems with ovulation and sperm health.
These types of foods can also cause insulin resistance, which can lead to hormonal imbalances and irregular or absent menstrual cycles. If you’re trying to get pregnant, it’s best to avoid or limit foods like candy, soda, baked goods, and other processed foods. Choose whole, nutrient-dense foods instead, like fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains.
Trans Fats
Trans fats are commonly found in processed foods like fried foods, snacks, and baked goods. These types of fats can cause inflammation, which can lead to hormonal imbalances and problems with ovulation.
In men, trans fats can reduce sperm count and motility. Instead of consuming foods that contain trans fats, focus on healthy fats like those found in avocados, nuts, and fatty fish.
Caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant that can negatively affect ovulation and sperm production. If you’re trying to get pregnant, it’s best to limit your caffeine intake to no more than 200 milligrams per day.
This is the equivalent of one 12-ounce cup of coffee. If you’re a heavy coffee drinker, try switching to decaf or drinking herbal tea instead.
Alcohol
Alcohol can reduce both male and female fertility. In women, alcohol can disrupt hormonal balance and decrease egg quality, while in men it can reduce sperm count and motility.
If you’re trying to conceive, it’s best to avoid alcohol altogether. If you do drink, limit your intake to one drink per day or less.
Soy
Soy contains phytoestrogens, which are plant compounds that mimic estrogen in the body. Consuming too much soy can disrupt hormonal balance and interfere with ovulation. In men, soy can reduce testosterone levels and sperm count.
If you’re trying to get pregnant, it’s best to limit your intake of soy products like tofu, soy milk, and soy protein.
Dairy
Dairy products can be problematic for people who are lactose intolerant or have a sensitivity to dairy. Consuming dairy can cause inflammation in the body, which can lead to problems with ovulation.
In men, dairy can increase the risk of prostate cancer and reduce sperm count. If you’re trying to conceive, it’s best to avoid or limit your intake of dairy products.
GMOs
GMOs, or genetically modified organisms, are plants or animals that have been genetically altered to produce certain traits.
Consuming foods that contain GMOs can lead to inflammation in the body, which can cause problems with ovulation and sperm health. It’s best to choose organic foods, which are free of GMOs.
Pesticides
Pesticides are chemicals used to kill pests on crops. Consuming foods that have been sprayed with pesticides can lead to inflammation and hormonal imbalances in the body. It’s best to choose organic foods, which are free of pesticides.
If you can’t afford to buy all organic foods, focus on buying organic versions of the “dirty dozen” – the twelve foods that are most likely to be contaminated with pesticides.
High-Mercury Fish
Fish is a great source of protein and healthy fats, but some types of fish can contain high levels of mercury. Consuming too much mercury can lead to problems with ovulation and sperm health.
If you’re trying to get pregnant, it’s best to limit your intake of high-mercury fish like shark, swordfish, and king mackerel. Instead, choose low-mercury fish like salmon, sardines, and trout.
Conclusion
The Ovary and Sperm Killer Diet includes foods that can negatively affect your fertility.
If you’re trying to get pregnant, it’s best to avoid or limit foods like sugar, processed foods, trans fats, caffeine, alcohol, soy, dairy, GMOs, pesticides, and high-mercury fish. Instead, focus on eating whole, nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and healthy fats.