Fertility is a complex mechanism. Both biological and social factors play a major role in determining whether women will conceive. For example, age, existing diseases, previous abortions, race, contraceptive usage and number of miscarriages. Researchers have found that dietary patterns also highly influence fertility. It is crucial to limit certain foods that you eat to boost the pregnancy potentials. We all are aware of which nutrition improve fertility. But more critical is the knowledge of foods that must be avoided or eaten in moderation. Or else they can make conception less likely and harm the foetus later.
Track your cycle, take prenatal vitamins and exercise well. Additionally, take a look at a few items that must not be a part of your fertility diet.
1. Processed Meat
Bacon, hot dog, beef and smoked fish cause infertility in both genders. These can lead to listeria contamination which can reduce pregnancy chances. They are also packed with trans and saturated fats that lower fertility rates. The possibilities of ovulation disorders also remain high. Consume less than 1.5 servings daily. It can increase the odds of conception by 28%. Or you can simply choose plant proteins like beans and lentils.
2. High Mercury Fish
King mackerel, swordfish, tuna and can build up toxins in the body. This impacts fertility and harms the nervous system of the foetus. It is crucial to be careful since the baby’s system begins to form even before women realise that they are pregnant. Consider one serving of fish every day. Try not to abandon completely since cold-water ones are a good source of Omega-3 fatty acids for brain health.
3. Low Fat Dairy
Women eating 2 or more portions of low-fat dairy are 85% likely to get infertile. U.S. based researchers have found a strong link with anovulatory disease. So, try to avoid low-fat milk, curd and cheese. These can also produce androgens that impair the menstrual cycle. Try to include more butter, cream or ice cream in your fertility diet. These reduce the risks of infertility by 25%. But keep a check on your weight and maintain a healthy score.
4. Sugary Beverages
Both males and females might face reduced fertility with energy drinks and sodas. Try not to drink more than 1 glass per day. Otherwise, sugar can lower conception rates in females by a quarter and in males by a third. Men consuming soda too often can experience low sperm count and motility. Try shifting to fresh fruit juice instead. You can also consider diet soda in minimal quantities till pregnancy is confirmed.
5. Baked Products
Donuts, cakes, margarine and pastries are rich in trans-fat. This component is produced when vegetable oils are partially hydrogenated to solidify them at room temperature. It can cause a higher risk of infertility due to complications like ovulatory disorders. Pick healthy carbs and foods with monosaturated fat instead to improve the chances of pregnancy.
Doctors at the best fertility hospital in Bangalore recommend avoiding alcohol, caffeine and high glycaemic index foods like pasta and white bread as well.