We’re sad to say it, but the clock is ticking and our fertility levels are dipping, all thanks to our toxic lifestyles. By that we mean, stress and environmental elements and even, diet are all factors here. No, we are not making this an age issue, in anyway. You can have children whenever you want, and this piece will tell you how to increase your chances of conceiving … when you’re ready for mommy duty!
Diet changes
Dr. Anubha Singh Gynaecologist and IVF Specialist from Shantah IVF centre, Delhi, says, “Your diet plays an important role in your conception. A ‘fertility diet’ includes foods which would enhance the quality of your eggs and support a healthy pregnancy.”
Foods to eat:
1. Bananas: They are a great source of potassium, vitamin C, B-6, manganese and fibre which are needed to maintain sexual vitality. “Bananas are also rich in proteins, vitamins, iron, magnesium and manganese which are essential for a healthy sperm count in men too,” explains Dr. Anubha.
2. Oatmeal: Starting your day with a bowl of oatmeal is also a good idea for successful conception as it has amazing cholesterol-lowering powers, and it also regulates blood pressure. “High cholesterol and hypertension can affect fertility. Oats are a great source of many vital minerals and essential nutrients which are good for fertility. They are rich in soluble fibre, protein, manganese, magnesium and zinc which play an important role in fertility enhancement,” Dr. Anubha clarifies.
3. Fresh fruits: Melons, pomegranate, mango, strawberries, pineapple, blueberries, and orange enhance fertility by increasing the level of antioxidants in the body, this making it healthier and more conducive to more fertile eggs.
4. Vegetables: Broccoli, cabbage, tomatoes and sweet potatoes are great too as they are excellent sources of Vitamins C and E and are also rich in anti-oxidants.
5. Pulses: “Add more pulses to your diet as they are low in fat, high in fibre, and have no cholesterol and a low glycemic (the index of the effect on a person’s blood sugar levels) index. They are also high in protein and nutrients like Vitamin C which are very important for women undergoing IVF as it significantly increases their pregnancy rate,” adds Dr. Anubha.
6. Dry fruits: Dried figs, sunflower seeds, almonds and walnuts are all essential as they are high in protein.
Avoid: Vegetables like bitter gourd, spinach and methi should be avoided as they have hot properties which can terminate your pregnancy. “Reduce or eliminate caffeine like coffee, tea, chocolate, colas or alcohol from your diet as they affect your fertility,” concludes Dr. Anubha
Lifestyle changes
Dr. Shobha Gupta, Medical Director, IVF Specialist, Mother’s Lap IVF Centre, New Delhi says, “Many are unaware that being fit is the most important way to increase fertility. Regular exercise can also help you maintain a healthier weight, which means you have a better chance of conceiving.”
1. Brisk walking: It is an ideal pre-conception exercise. A great cardiovascular workout, it helps tone your legs, back and tummy.
2. Dancing: An amazing way to stay fit and flexible especially when you’re trying to conceive. It involves the movement of the entire body and becomes a good cardio workout which tones your muscles and builds stamina.
3. Swimming: The safest and most preferred exercise both before and during pregnancy, swimming helps build up your endurance and reduces toxic elements effortlessly.
4. Yoga: Yoga, meditation and breath-control exercises make the mind calm and reduce anxiety. With yoga, you are strengthening your reproductive organs and muscles that are used during pregnancy and childbirth.
