While weight loss should be the goal for women who are obese, a healthy diet should be the goal for all women, specifically those who are attempting to conceive. The following foods can improve your diet and enhance fertility:
- Whole grains
- Fruits and vegetables
- Unprocessed foods (packaged foods like chips, crackers, and ready-to-eat meals)
- Nuts and seeds
Herbs
In the past herbal remedies and natural medicines were the be-all and end-all of medicine. There were no pharmacies, over-the-counter concoctions or prescription medications. Herbs were, and remain, a significant aid in healing and supporting the body. Herbs that might enhance fertility include:
• Chasteberry has been used for thousands of years, to ease menstrual discomfort, stimulate the production of breast milk, reduce acne and enhance fertility.
• Red raspberry leaf
• Evening primrose oil
• Red Clover
However, these herbs represent an alternative option not scientifically proven to enhance fertility. You should always use caution when adding any herbal treatment to your regimen, as herbs and supplements are not strictly regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and can interact with some medications.
Diet is always important to maintain optimum health. When trying to conceive it is all the more important to eat right - it's always best to do all you can to ensure a healthy baby.
Whole grains
Whole grains such as oats, brown rice, whole wheat and quinoa are complex carbohydrates and so not only give you lots of energy for baby-making by releasing sugar into your blood slowly and evenly, but also contain an abundance of B and E vitamins that are essential for cellular reproduction, hormonal balance and the production of healthy ova and sperm.
Oily fish
Oily fish such as salmon, mackerel and sardines are the best source of essential fatty acids (EFAs) omega-3 and omega-6 which play an important role in regulating reproductive functioning, improving blood flow and enhancing sperm quality and mobility. Flaxseed oil is a good EFA alternative for those who don't eat fish.
Garlic
Although not typically known as a food for romance, garlic contains an abundance of fertility boosting nutrients and can easily be neutralized with parsley. It's a great source of selenium that may play a role in early miscarriage. Garlic also contains vitamin B6 which helps to regulate hormones and strengthens the immune system.
Honey
Honey has been used to enhance fertility throughout history as it is incredibly rich in the minerals and amino acids that nourish the reproductive system and stimulate ovarian function. It's considered by many to be a fertility boosting super food.
Spinach
Spinach and other leafy greens are an excellent source of folic acid which is important in optimizing sperm production, facilitating regular, healthy ova production and helping to prevent neural tube defects during early pregnancy. It is also a great source of iron and vitamin C which helps to enhance sperm quality by protecting the DNA stored within it from damage.
Oysters
It is the abundance of zinc found in this seafood delicacy that gives it its fertility boosting qualities.
Avocado
Avocado provides a rich source of vitamin E which is a powerful antioxidant and an essential fertility nutrient for both men and women as it improves the viability of sperm and helps to regulate both ovulation and the production of cervical mucus. It is also an excellent source of unsaturated fats which are essential for healthy hormone functioning, olive oil.
In general when trying for a baby it pays to go for good quality, unprocessed foods as these are likely to be much richer in vitamins, minerals and nutrients and also freer from pesticides and added estrogens that may disrupt reproductive functioning in both men and women. By supplementing a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle with the foods listed above you will help to ensure you have all the nutrients you need to ensure your reproductive system is in optimum condition.
