Food you should eat if you want to conceive

Infertility can be caused by several reasons, and while treatment is important, there are some changes one can make to improve chances of conception, some of which include changes in diet.

While there is no magic food that miraculously cures infertility, there are certain foods loaded with nutrients that could improve one's health and chances of conception.

Below is a list of some of these foods and their nutrients.

1. Beans

• Are rich in protein
• Are rich in folic acid, an important component that aids conception
• Improve ovulation
• Help maintain a healthy hormonal balance
• Kidney beans are rich in iron, which is important during implantation

2. Avocados

• Rich in vitamin K
• Rich in potassium and folate
• Comprised of healthy monounsaturated fats that offer fibre and folic acid
• Rich in vitamin E, which improves the uterus lining

3. Fruits (citrus)

• Are rich in vitamin C and folic acid
• Contain natural antioxidants that greatly improve chances of conception
• Encourage the release of eggs
• Regulate hormones
• Regulate the menstrual cycle

4. Salmon

• Valuable omega 3s, which also improve fetal development during pregnancy
• Vitamin D and selenium, which help elevate semen levels

5. Walnuts

• Contain omega 3s, which help regulate hormones
• Improve semen health in men
• Bring about better sperm motility
• Improve quantity and quality of sperm
• Are rich in magnesium, which is essential for the production of progesterone

6. Asparagus

• Very important food for those trying to conceive
• Contains folic acid and vitamin K
• Contains a good amount of zinc and selenium
• Contains the antioxidant glutathione, which improves egg quality

7. Sunflower seeds

• Rich in vitamin E, which boosts sperm count and motility
• Rich in folate and selenium

8. Oysters

• Contain fertility-boosting nutrients like zinc (a very important component in fertility), selenium, iron and vitamin B12
• Improve the health of sperm
• Aid in egg production
• Play a role in testosterone production
• Increase libido

9. Liver

• Contains folate and vitamin B
• Improves egg quality
• Boosts chances of conception

10. Leafy greens

• Contain calcium, iron, folate and fibre
• Very important for conception
• Improve ova production and ovulation
• Regulate hormones

You can incorporate these foods into your diet as the main meal, a snack, or even toppings.

Other changes that help

In addition to changes to your diet, there are other changes you can make if you are trying to conceive. They include:

• Quit smoking
• Stay active
• Find better ways to manage stress
• Quit alcohol
• Get checked and treated for STDs
• Maintain a normal weight
• Take supplements
• Prioritise sleep

Make sure to contact your health professional for any of your health concerns.

Maucare Pharmacy has a wide range of medications and supplements that could aid conception. Be sure to contact us for your health and wellness needs.