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What Dietary Habits Can Help Maintain Optimal Fertility in Both Men and Women?

25 April, 2025|
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Fertility is a complex interplay of physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors. However, one of the most influential aspects of fertility that is often overlooked is diet. Whether you're planning to conceive or just aiming to maintain optimal reproductive health, what you eat can significantly impact your reproductive health be it in men or women. Here’s how the right nutrients can benefit reproductive health for both men and women.

Key Nutrients for Women

  • Folic Acid: Crucial for DNA synthesis and preventing birth defects, folic acid also supports ovarian health. Women should include folate-rich foods like leafy greens, citrus fruits, eggs, and nuts in their diet.
  • Iron: Adequate iron levels help with fertilization and implantation during pregnancy. Low iron can lead to anaemia and complications like preterm birth. Women should consume iron-rich foods like beans, spinach, and fortified cereals.
  • Vitamin B12: Essential for placenta development and fertility, B12 can be found in animal products such as fish, meat, and eggs.

Key Nutrients for Men

  • Selenium: Known for protecting sperm from oxidative damage, selenium supports sperm quality and motility. Foods like nuts, fish, and eggs are great sources of selenium.
  • Zinc: Vital for sperm production and testosterone regulation, zinc plays an important role in male fertility. Zinc-rich foods include seafood, fortified cereals, and nuts.
  • Calcium: Calcium supports sperm motility, ensuring that sperm can reach the egg effectively. Dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified cereals can help men meet their calcium needs.

Nutrients for Both Men and Women

  • Vitamin E: This antioxidant helps protect cells from damage and supports egg and sperm quality. Sources include nuts, seeds, and leafy vegetables.
  • Vitamin C: Crucial for healthy ovarian follicles and sperm health, vitamin C can be found in citrus fruits, berries, and peppers.

Healthy Eating Habits

In addition to specific nutrients, overall dietary habits and lifestyle changes are crucial. Consuming a variety of whole foods, including lean proteins, healthy fats (like omega-3 fatty acids from fish or flax seeds), and complex carbohydrates, supports hormonal balance and reproductive health. Limiting processed foods, sugars, and alcohol can also benefit fertility

Thereby, adopting a nutrient-rich, balanced diet is one of the most effective ways to support fertility for both men and women. With the right dietary habits, fertility can be optimized.

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