There is a lot of good advice to be found on the Internet about what you should eat before, during, and after a pregnancy. And while there is not a specific food that will cure infertility, there are plenty of foods that may help your body prepare for pregnancy, and in some cases even improve fertility measures. Women who are trying to conceive with the help of our Connecticut fertility center may be encouraged to change their diet to include some of the following fertility boosting foods:
Bananas
Bananas are rich in vitamin B-6, which helps to regulate hormones. Getting too little B-6 in the diet has been linked to poor sperm and egg development. Raw pistachios, garlic, sunflower seeds, and sesame seeds (or tahini), are also great sources of B-6.
Broccoli
These green little “trees” along with asparagus, spinach, oranges, and brussel sprouts are rich in folic acid- an essential vitamin for reducing birth defects. Some researchers have suggested that consuming enough folic acid may help with egg production.
Shellfish
Clams, oysters, and mussels are all loaded with vitamin B-12. Deficiencies in this vitamin can result in abnormal estrogen levels which can cause miscarriage or prevent a fertilized egg from implanting. Not a shellfish fan? Salmon, tuna, fortified cereals, low-fat dairy, and eggs all contain B-12.
Eggs
Sunnyside up, fried, or hardboiled, eggs supply a healthy dose of vitamin D. According to the European Journal of Endocrinology, vitamin D can improve in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes, as well as improve endometriosis and polycystic ovarian syndrome.
Beans
Beans are full of iron, vitamin B, folate, potassium, magnesium, and many additional phytonutrients that are important to fertility. Additionally, they provide a healthy amount of fiber and protein to a diet which can assist in weight management.
The most important aspect of eating for fertility is to focus on a diet that is rich in fresh produce and lean proteins. Avoid processed foods that can lead to weight gain (which affects hormones) and consume less alcohol if any, when trying to become pregnant. Practicing good health is not only beneficial to your fertility, it is also beneficial to your emotional and physical health during fertility treatment. To learn more about infertility treatments such as Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) or frozen embryo transfer at Park Avenue Fertility, set up a consultation with Dr. Levi by calling 855-901-BABY.