Infertility is a complex issue with a variety of causes. While no single solution will resolve issues for every couple facing infertility, a healthy diet often helps. Few Americans truly eat a healthy diet, yet proper nutrition is important for conception and successful pregnancy.
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An eight-year-long Harvard study investigated the dietary needs of women. While this information is specific to couples facing fertility issues due to blocked fallopian tubes, a diet incorporating these tips can improve overall health for individuals of both genders.
Eat the right fats
Generally, eating more healthy fats and reducing the intake of unhealthy fats promotes fertility. Avoid trans fats entirely. Instead, consume unsaturated vegetable oils. Both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats promote fertility.
In addition to increasing your intake of vegetable oils, you can get more of these healthy fats by eating seeds, nuts and cold-water fish such as cod and salmon.
Eat more vegetable protein
While protein is important for fertility, the type of protein makes a significant difference. Replace one serving of meat each day with a vegetarian option such as nuts, tofu or various legumes.
Get plenty of good carbs
A no-carb diet won’t help you conceive. Instead, choose slowly digested carbohydrates that are rich in nutrients and fiber. Choosing these slow carbs over quickly digested carbs helps to control blood sugar and insulin levels.
Slow carb all-stars include whole fruit, whole grains and vegetables.
Avoid nonfat dairy
If you imbibe in dairy products, choose full-fat options. Whole milk contains healthy fats as does ice cream and full-fat yogurt. Consumed in small amounts, these appear to promote fertility while skim milk and similar products actually decrease fertility.
Eat iron-rich plants
Moms-to-be need plenty of iron in their blood, and many nutritious fruits and vegetables supply this nutrient. Spinach, pumpkin, tomatoes and beets are some of the all-stars on the list of iron-rich foods.
Keep yourself well-hydrated
Drinking plenty of pure water promotes fertility. In addition to water, coffee, tea and alcohol are also okay in limited amounts. Soda pop appears to inhibit fertility in women.
About the Author:
Karleia Steiner is a freelance blogger. To learn more about how your diet can affect your fertility, as well as the reasons behind your fertility issues, make an appointment with a local fertility expert. Professionals like those at Perinatal and Fertility Specialists of San Antonio may be able to help you.
CMO Contributor
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