Different things can affect your chances of getting pregnant and having a successful pregnancy. Both how you live and what you eat play a role in your reproductive well-being. In this article, we discuss different types of food and supplements that are believed to improve fertility.
Foods high in unsaturated fats, such as avocados and nuts, can be very beneficial for your fertility and the development of your baby. Omega-3s, which are found in these types of fats, can help with the brain development of your baby. For mothers-to-be, these "good fats" can also help reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity, both of which are important for successful embryo implantation. Additionally, getting enough of these healthy fats can help relieve muscle soreness during pregnancy, and lower the risk of gestational diabetes and hypertension.
Whole grains are another food that can help boost fertility. They provide energy and are slowly digested by the body, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and prevent spikes and crashes. Whole grains such as quinoa, millet, buckwheat, spelt, and brown rice are considered "slow carbs" because of this. Additionally, whole grains are a good source of B vitamins, which can help heal the body and improve liver health. B9 (folic acid) is especially important for the development of the baby's brain, spinal cord, and nervous system. Whole grains also contain extra fiber which can aid digestion, in contrast to refined sugar and white bread which can hinder fertility as well as cause decreased insulin sensitivity, irregular menstrual cycles, and difficulties in identifying fertile days.
Vegetables areimportant for maintaining ovulation cycles and promoting healthy egg release. Once you become pregnant, these same nutrients will also be essential for the fetus to grow and develop. Leafy green vegetables, such as spinach, romaine, arugula, and broccoli, are high in antioxidants which help eliminate free radicals from the body. These free radicals can damage healthy cells, weaken the immune system, and increase the risk of cancer. Eating these vegetables can help boost ovulation. During pregnancy, it is important to consume more iron than usual due to an increased blood flow. Many women do not get enough iron on a daily basis. Eating foods high in iron such as beans, pumpkins, tomatoes, and beets can help prevent anemia and improve oxygen circulation throughout the body. Lastly, yellow, red, and orange vegetables, like bell peppers, carrots, and sweet potatoes, are rich in vitamin C and vitamin E, which can help promote healthy reproduction and successful embryo implantation.
Fish is a great food to include in your diet if you are trying to improve your fertility. Fish is high in lean protein and low in saturated fat. Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and cod contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for fertility as they help improve blood flow to the reproductive organs. Fish and seafood also help strengthen muscles and repair damaged tissues. Studies have shown that people who eat at least two 4-ounce portions of seafood per week have a higher chance of conceiving quickly. Oysters are also a great food to eat as they are high in zinc, which can help balance free radicals and improve the quality of eggs.
Eating a high-protein diet can improve your chances of successful and quick conception. A high-protein diet is one where you consume one gram of protein for every two pounds of body weight per day. Plant-based protein sources such as tofu, beans, and legumes are a great option as they don't contain unhealthy saturated fats. Consuming these types of proteins can also help regulate ovulation and egg production. To boost fertility, it is recommended to replace at least one portion of red meat per day with a plant-based protein source, which can help lower saturated fat intake.
Full-fat dairy products such as milk, butter, cheese, and yogurt can increase the likelihood of pregnancy in women. Additionally, taking prenatal vitamins that contain folic acid, which is important for the development of the baby's spinal cord and nervous system, is recommended by doctors. It's important to consult a doctor before taking any new supplements. Eating a well-balanced diet and developing healthy habits can also improve the chances of getting pregnant quickly and having a healthy pregnancy.