10 foods to increase fertility

1. Tea

Green tea and orange pekoe tea are both excellent fertility enhancers. Tea contains a high level of antioxidants which aid in healthy immune systems. Research has shown that women who regularly drink tea increase their chance of conception

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2. Berries and other Fruits

Berries are high in anti-oxidants.  These reduce the free radicals within the body. Free radicals damage cells and ova and sperm are particularly susceptible to such damage.  They are also high in vitamin C which is especially useful for male factor infertility helping to reduce the clumping together of sperm. 

3. Garlic

Although not typically known as a food for romance, garlic contains an abundance of fertility boosting nutrients and can easily be neutralised with parsley. It's a great source of the mineral selenium which is thought to enhance male fertility and help prevent the chromosome breakage that may play a role in early miscarriage. Garlic also contains vitamin B6 which helps to regulate hormones and strengthens the immune system. 

4. 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.

5. Spinach and other Leafy Greens

Spinach and other leafy greens are an excellent source of folic acid which is important in optimising sperm production, facilitating regular, healthy ova production and helping to prevent neural tube defects during early pregnancy. They are high in Vitamin E, important for improving the number and quality of sperm.  For vitamin E, watercress is especially good.  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.

6. Oysters

It is the abundance of zinc found in this seafood delicacy that gives it its fertility boosting qualities. Zinc is often considered to be the most important fertility nutrient as it has been shown to help with both healthy sperm and egg production as well as being important for maintaining optimum semen volume and blood testosterone levels in men. If oysters aren't your thing, zinc can also be found in lentils, legumes, baked beans, eggs, nuts, seeds, whole grains and pumpkin seeds. 

7. Lentils, legumes, eggs, nuts and seeds

They are high in zinc important for hormone health.  As well as this, many nuts and seeds also contain high levels of calcium which is very important for the bone, muscle and nervous system health of the foetus.  

8. Chillies

These certainly 'spice' things up in the fertility department by increasing the flow of blood around the body, ensuring that the reproductive system gets a healthy supply. Chillies also stimulate endorphin production which means more fertility boosting, stress releasing, happy hormones circulate around your body and are also an excellent source of vitamin C which helps with iron absorption. 

9. 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 is another good vegetable source.

10. Olive Oil raw, cold pressed)

Vitamin E is found in olive oil and wheat germ and has been found to be helpful especially in male fertility

and the bonus ... WATER

Probably the most important thing to consume. Get in the good habit of drinking at least eight cups of water a day.  Your baby lives in water for the first 9 months of it’s life so mothers to be have to have enough available so their body will allow them to put some aside to protect the foetus.

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 oestrogens 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.

If you are trying to get pregnant, and are having trouble, please let your Chiropractor know so they can tailor the treatment and advice you receive to your situation specifically.

Remember, your body is very smart.  It will only allow you to become pregnant if both partners are in good health.  The mother’s body protects the foetus and the parents are responsible for caring for the newborn.  If there are signs that either parent is not healthy enough to keep up with the rigorous demands of parent hood, the body will do it’s best to prevent a pregnancy from occurring.  

 There are also many supplements you can use to help improve your fertility however these should be tailored specifically for each individual.  As a result it is important to speak to your natural health care practitioner (chiropractor, naturopath etc) about the best options for you.  ~Bel