Issues related to fertility and reproductive health is getting quite high with every passing day. The primary reason behind is the daily lifestyle and diet choices we are making. It is having a huge impact on fertility and hindering your path to parenthood. But, fortunately there are several IVF clinics in Bangalore like Miracle IVF Hospital that emphasize the importance of nutrition when trying to conceive.
To make it clear, here we discuss in detail about how nutrition and fertility works together and also we provide you some of the essentials to keep in mind as suggested by IVF doctor in Bangalore Dr. Rekha Rajendrakumar of Miracle IVF Hospital.
Body Weight and FertilityBeing either underweight or overweight can disrupt your menstrual cycles and reduce fertility. For women, maintaining a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 19-24 is ideal for conception. Losing even 5-10% of your body weight if overweight or gaining weight if underweight can help increase chances of conceiving naturally. According to Dr. Rekha of Miracle IVF Hospital, achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is one of the first recommendations she provides patients trying for a baby through IVF.
Eat a Diet Rich in NutrientsA nutrient-dense, whole food based diet is key to supporting fertility. Focus on consuming plenty of:
- Vitamin C: Found in bell peppers, citrus fruits, strawberries etc. Vitamin C supports sperm and egg quality.
- Vitamin D: Many IVF clinics in Bangalore like Miracle IVF Hospital check Vitamin D levels as deficiency is common. Sources include fatty fish, eggs, mushrooms.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon, walnuts, flaxseeds provide DHA and EPA which are vital for egg and sperm health.
- Folate (Vitamin B9): Leafy greens, oranges are high in this nutrient needed for cell division and rapid growth in early pregnancy.
- Iron: Lean red meat, lentils, spinach help with healthy blood flow and oxygen transportation which is crucial for fertility.
Many fertility experts including IVF doctor in Bangalore advise limiting or eliminating caffeine and alcohol consumption when trying to conceive. Caffeine is linked to miscarriage risk and alcohol can negatively impact egg and sperm health. The general guidance is to:
- Limit coffee and tea intake to 1-2 cups per day (200mg caffeine max)
- Avoid energy drinks which are high in sugar and caffeine
- Have no more than 1 serving of alcohol (5oz wine/12oz beer) per week or best to avoid altogether when TTC
Oxidative stress and free radicals can damage DNA in eggs and sperm over time reducing fertility potential. Eat plenty of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables like:
- Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries are high in antioxidants.
- Citrus fruits: Oranges, grapefruit, lemon contain flavonoids and vitamin C.
- Tomatoes: Packed with lycopene which supports sperm health.
- leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, collards full of lutein, beta-carotene, vitamin K.
Minimizing processed foods and refined carbs while increasing antioxidant intake can help counter oxidative stress on reproductive health as per IVF doctor in Bangalore Dr. Rekha Rajendrakumar.
Final ThoughtsSo, small dietary tweaks can go a long way in helping you optimize your fertility potential. Focus on consuming plenty of fertility-supporting nutrients while limiting junk foods, excess caffeine and alcohol intake. Achieving and maintaining a healthy BMI along with following dietary guidance from fertility experts at IVF clinics in Bangalore like Miracle IVF Hospital can boost your chances of conceiving naturally or having IVF success. A balanced nutrition plan should be a key part of your preconception health strategy.