Fertility Diet And Factors Which Affect Fertility

Fertility diet helps to increase the chances of conception.



A number of factors that affect fertility, in addition to diet are stress, anxiety, obesity, low sperm count, hormonal disturbances and environmental contaminants. Endocrine disruptors are certain pollutants from the surrounding that affect the fertility levels in both men and women. A poor lifestyle also affects the fertility of an individual. Choice of right foods is vital.

Fertility Diet And Fertility Diet Tips For Conception

Infertility is associated with refined carbohydrates, such as potatoes, sodas and white bread.



Foods with high complex carbohydrate content, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, cereals, legumes and so on; help in fertility. Carbohydrates also affect the insulin, thereby the blood glucose levels. This in turn affects the hormones necessary for reproduction. Thus, the diet affects fertility.

Caffeine affects the fertility by constriction of the blood vessels to the uterus.



This results in hindrance in the fertilization of egg. About two ounces of coffee is allowed. Cut out on the caffeine in your diet, in case of complications. Milk is a better alternative for coffee. Research also reveals the association between caffeine and miscarriage. Caffeine is present in coffee, energy drinks, herbal products, coffee ice cream, chocolates, tea and soft drinks. Certain over the counter drugs also contain caffeine such as cold, allergy and headache medication.

High fiber in the diet also prevents the incidence of gestational diabetes, associated with pregnancy. Increase in the stored energy also affects ovulation, due to increase in male hormones, excessive production of leptin and insensitivity to insulin. Fats help in cellular machinery and act as building blocks for hormones. They provide calories and influence functioning of the cells. Unsaturated fats increase insulin sensitivity and thereby enhance fertility levels. Polyunsaturated fats help in fertility. Ovulatory infertility is associated with the intake of trans fats. Trans fats decrease sensitivity to insulin and reduce inflammation.



Research reveals the decrease in fertility rates when on trans fats, rather than on monounsaturated fats.

Proteins also play an important role in fertility diet. Sensitivity to insulin, insulin like growth factor 1 and blood glucose levels affect the ovulation process and dietary protein, in turn affects these factors. Plant proteins, such as beans, pulses and legumes prove more effective than animal proteins. The risk of infertility is greater in women who consume animal proteins in place of carbohydrates. Lifestyle modification, which includes abstinence from smoking and alcohol, also improves fertility. Exercise and brisk physical activity helps to a great extent in increasing the fertility levels.