Fertility diet tips that can support the journey to parenthood
Our Connecticut fertility doctor has found that adopting a healthy fertility diet can support a woman’s reproductive health and increase the chance that fertility treatments will lead to pregnancy. To help women understand how the food they eat potentially affects their fertility, we’ve put together dietary tips to help our patients make positive shifts in their eating habits.
Ideas for a fertility diet that can support conception and a healthy pregnancy
There are simple changes women can make in their diet to support their reproductive health and enhance their overall wellbeing. These nutritional shifts can also minimize the stress that can sometimes accompany fertility challenges.
Plant proteins. Plants with an abundance of protein can support fertility health by aiding in the repair of tissues. They can also help create and release certain hormones, enzymes and blood cells. Protein-rich plants include beans, peas and nuts.
Healthy carbs. Foods containing carbohydrates that the body slowly digests can enhance fertility by regulating blood sugar and insulin levels. You can find these “slow carbs” in whole grains, beans, whole fruits and vegetables.
Foods that are rich in iron. An important part of a fertility diet is consuming foods with ample iron. Spinach, beets, tomatoes and pumpkin all check off this box.
Full-fat dairy. You can support your reproductive health by eating full-fat dairy products like whole milk and full-fat yogurt.
Certain fats. Increase the body’s sensitivity to insulin and reduce inflammation by regularly eating foods high in healthy fats, like avocado, eggs, fatty fish, chia seeds and nuts.
A daily multivitamin. A multivitamin that contains at least 400 micrograms of folic acid can help prepare the body for a healthy pregnancy.
Our Connecticut fertility doctor also recommends staying away from alcohol, cigarettes and recreational drugs. He also suggests reducing consumption of fried and processed foods.
How we provide additional support for those trying to build their family
While adopting a healthy fertility diet is a great first step for those trying to increase their likelihood of conceiving a healthy baby, they might need additional assistance. This starts with our knowledgeable Connecticut fertility doctor evaluating the patient’s reproductive health.
This evaluation usually involves a comprehensive review of the patient’s medical history, in addition to diagnostic testing, bloodwork and an ultrasound. The doctor will likely recommend a semen analysis for male patients. If these initial tests reveal issues, the patient might benefit from additional testing.
Following the fertility tests, the doctor typically has the information needed to make the right infertility diagnosis and develop an effective treatment plan. These steps often lead to the birth of a healthy baby. Contact us for more information about how to enhance your reproductive health.