According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2002 1.2 million women said that they had seen a doctor about infertility within the past year. Although a large portion of couples struggle with conception due to low sperm count, ovulatory problems, and endometriosis, a significant number of infertility cases are simply deemed as unexplained. For years nutritionists and alternative medicine doctors have helped women with unexplained fertility issues become pregnant. Some believe that specific foods can actually boost your fertility. There are doctors, scientists, dietitians, herbalists, and organic food supporters that advocate the power of food in fertility. Here are some foods you can look into if you are yearning for that baby bump.
- Zinc Some studies point to zinc as the magic fertility bullet. This research claims that the consumption of at least 15 mg of zinc a day can aid in warding off reproductive problems for both the female and male partner. Zinc plays a positive role in female fertility by promoting proper cell division, a process critical to the earliest stages of conception and fetal development. Similarly, in male reproduction zinc may well be necessary for adequate testosterone levels and sperm counts. The best sources of zinc are oysters, red meats, poultry, cheese, shrimp, crab, and other shellfish. Although zinc is known throughout the medical community as a helpful mineral that keeps reproductive systems in good working order, no studies have been done to prove that it will help you make a baby. In fact, taking excessive amounts of any type of vitamins or minerals can decrease fertility. The RDA for a zinc for a man is 11mg, for a woman is 8mg and for a pregnant or nursing woman 11-12mg.
- Caffeine A couple of studies suggest that when some men drink coffee before sex, their sperm becomes more energetic. Because sluggish sperm is a primary cause of male infertility, java advocates believe coffee could be the answer to their conception problems. However, women should not join their partner for that pre-coital coffee break. A study conducted by Yale University School of Medicine found that the risk of reduced fertility is higher in women who consume caffeine, especially in women who drink more than three cups of coffee a day.
- Iron A number of nutritionists also believe that iron can enhance your fertility. Some studies indicate that women with low iron reserves are less likely to conceive, so it is assumed that consuming more iron can increase fertility. Good sources of iron include apricots, clams, shrimp, prunes, and tofu. Fertility food advocates also say that this rule holds true for foods containing vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin E, and calcium.
