problems with. There are a few rules on what you should and shouldn’t eat once you’re pregnant, but what if
you’re trying to conceive? We obviously know that the foods we eat play a gigantic role in helping our
bodies
function properly, and the reproductive system is no different.
A woman’s menstrual cycle seems pretty straightforward -- when she ovulates, her body prepares for
conception, and if she doesn’t conceive, she gets her period. But there are so many bodily functions that
occur
behind the scenes that are responsible for making this natural process happen, and the foods we eat can
affect the level of our hormones, quality of our blood and its circulation, and how well our brain is able to
send messages to the rest of our body - all things that play a role our fertility.
Here are 7 foods that are great for helping boost your fertility.
1. Fish
Fish is an excellent source of omega-3, especially Salmon, a healthy fat that acts as a building block for
hormones. It’s also important for brain function and can even help regulate menstrual cycles.
2. Berries
Colourful fruits such as blueberries, raspberries and strawberries aren’t just high in vitamin C, folate and
fibre. They are full of antioxidants that boost fertility in both men and women. Antioxidants help to reduce
damage to reproductive cells caused by environmental toxins and things called “free radicals” created in the
body.
3. Grains
This naturally gluten-free grain is a fertility staple for many reasons, the most important being its ability to
control blood sugar levels. When you eat whole grains such as brown rice or whole grain bread, it takes your
body long to digest because of its high fibre and protein content, which keeps your blood sugar levels stable
and your hunger at bay. When blood sugar spikes and plummets after a sugary or nutrient-sparse meal, your
insulin levels get out of whack, which can affect your hormone balance. Too much fluctuation in blood sugar
and insulin levels can lead to insulin resistance and even diabetes which can be problematic for fertility,
pregnancy and beyond.
4. Organic Yoghurt
I know you were told to cut down on dairy products, but research is now showing that full fat dairy is the
way
to go to get the right balance of nutrients. Greek yogurt makes for a great breakfast or snack with protein,
calcium and vitamin D. Vitamin D has been shown to play a role in regulating menstrual cycles and
improving fertility by balancing sex hormones. Only use organic dairy products to avoid additional hormones
and additives, which can mimic hormones in your body.
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5. Vegetables.
Green leaves are great sources of iron and folate. Iron is super important for your cycle, especially during
menstruation, and supports ovulation and healthy egg development. It’s also helpful to stock up on iron
before you conceive to make sure you aren’t entering pregnancy as anaemic. Folate is another critical
nutrient
that is even MORE critical during the first few weeks after you conceive. Folate support brain, heart and
neural tube development in baby and also helps avoid pregnancy complications.
6. Legumes
Beans, and specifically lentils, are great sources of iron, folate and fibre. They also serve as a great source of
protein for vegetarians and vegans. Lentils are great in salads, soups or even with some olive oil and spices,
and beans in general can be added to almost any dish for an extra nutrient boost. Fibre is super important to
keep your digestive tract functioning properly and helps with fertility by getting rid of excess hormones in
the body.
7. Oysters. The fact that oysters are a known aphrodisiac is ironic since they are also a fertility superfood. A
mineral that boosts fertility in both men and women.
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