In What Ways Do Food Habits Influence Fertility?
Eggs and sperm play a significant role in fertility. As we age, both our quality and quantity of eggs and sperm can decrease; therefore, our chances of getting pregnant become more difficult. There was only one thing to worry about in the old days — aging, but nowadays there are a variety of factors to consider, such as modern lifestyles and a change in dietary habits.
> Highly nutritious food is important for keeping the body healthy and promoting fertility. Even in young people, poor nutrition will definitely affect sperm quality and number to some extent.
> The ovaries and testicles need good blood flow to optimize their functions by bringing more nutrients, oxygen, and hormones. Hence, the diet should be supportive of this requirement.
> The production of testosterone within the testicles should be improved to lead to better semen production, sperm production, sperm motility, and sperm morphology. This can be achieved with the help of certain health supplements. It is, however, necessary to seek the advice of a medical professional before selecting the supplement.
> As a woman age, antioxidant capacity and the cells and fluid surrounding the egg will decrease. It can also be caused by a high sugar intake. Aside from that, foods cooked at high temperatures, like grilling or barbecue, accumulate potent oxidants. To be on the safe side, it is always a good idea to avoid such food articles or at least minimize their consumption.
> It has been shown that high levels of Vitamin C and Vitamin E can reduce sperm DNA fragmentation. Therefore, consuming food that contain these vitamins every day will be beneficial. When taking aspirin daily, consuming Vitamin E may increase blood clotting effects, so it is best not to take it.
> For sperm and eggs to function properly, a high level of energy is necessary, so healthy fats should be included in the diet. However, excessive fat consumption leads to obesity, which is one of the major causes of infertility. So, eat foods that are high in healthy fats like –
a) Fish.
b) Nuts – Almonds, Walnuts, macadamia nuts, and hazelnuts
c) Seeds such as chia seeds and flax seeds (always choose ground flax seeds
when consuming)
d) Olive oil and avocado oil.
e) Avocados.
The key to living a healthy life is to follow a strict and healthy diet. In the same way, maintaining fertility is also dependent on a healthy diet. When contemplating a diet, it is best to seek advice from some expert dieticians. They can suggest a diet that is well- balanced for you. Once the diet has been planned, one should follow it strictly.