Thursday 17 October 2013

Food for Infertility

Food for Infertility

Infertility problem is a complex condition and there is no fixed formula for success. Every case is unique and therefore, needs unique solution. There are multiple parameters that are responsible for it. Physiological problems, genetic disorders, lifestyle, stress, exposure to toxins and chemicals could cause infertility problem.

There is a common question asked to infertility experts. Can incorrect food habits cause infertility? If yes, then what food can cure it?  What should be consumed and in what quantity?

I would say it is quite tricky question. We need to understand that infertility is a resultant factor of many problems and therefore, food habits and lifestyle certainly affects it. Excessive consumption of tobacco and alcohol, processed and refined food, excess weight and lack of exercise could aggravate the problem. There is certainly no “Super food” that can cure infertility problem instantly, but eating proper food and making corrective changes in the lifestyle could improve the fertility levels gradually.

Food that can help in curing infertility

There has been extensive research done across the globe to understand the correlation between food and infertility. Some food items have shown significant improvement.

a)  Antioxidants:  Antioxidants have immense power to correct the disorders and they help in curing infertility too. Eating food rich with antioxidants or taking supplements is good to get rid of free radicals. These are the elements that cause damage to the sperm or cause low production of the sperms.  Free radicals cause serious health problems in the body and hence, should be removed from the body. Raw fruits and vegetables especially sweet potatoes, spinach, blueberries, tomatoes, carrots, mangoes, oranges and fish, etc. are rich source of antioxidants.  It is better to eat food in raw form because excessive coking would destroy many of them.

b)  Vitamins and minerals: Food rich in vitamins and minerals help greatly in curing infertility problem. Vitamins boost secretion of hormones that are favorable for fertility. It is always better to supply vitamins and minerals to the body naturally by eating foods and vegetables in ample amount. However, vitamin supplements are prescribed by infertility experts in case of extreme deficiency in the body. Vitamin A, B, C, D and B-12 along with Zinc and folic acids are helpful in enhancing fertility in the body.

c)  Protein rich diet: Protein is essential for the growth and it also provides energy and resistance against ailments. Protein rich diet boosts the fertility levels. Liver, fish, poultry, dark red lean beef, salmon and tuna are excellent sources of protein. Veggies need not feel frustrated because they can fulfill the protein deficiency by consuming milk and milk products, beans, soybean, pulses, peanuts and corn. It gives inner strength to the body and boost fertility levels.

These are general guidelines. You need to consult a dietitian before making changes in the diet pattern along with the infertility expert. They will discuss and chalk-out the perfect plan for you. Reducing weight, quitting alcohol and tobacco and adopting correct lifestyle will enhance the impact of food and nutrients

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