Did you know that the foods you eat might affect your fertility? It’s true! There are a number of different foods that can impact your ability to get pregnant, including some that you might not expect. For example, caffeine can decrease fertility, while eating protein-rich foods can help boost it.
So if you’re trying to get pregnant, it’s important to be aware of the foods that might be affecting your fertility and make changes where necessary, alongside conducting a fertility test for males to pinpoint any underlying issues. Keep reading for a list of the top 10 foods that can influence your fertility!
1. Caffeine
While a cup of coffee in the morning might help you wake up and start your day, too much caffeine can actually decrease fertility. That’s because caffeine can interfere with ovulation and make it more difficult to conceive. If you’re trying to get pregnant, it’s best to limit your caffeine intake to 200 milligrams per day (about one 12-ounce cup of coffee).
2. Alcohol
Like caffeine, alcohol can also impact fertility. While there is no definitive answer on how much alcohol is safe to consume when trying to conceive, it’s generally recommended that women limit their intake to one drink per day. Drinking more than that has been shown to decrease fertility and increase the risk of miscarrying.
3. Trans Fats
Trans fats are commonly found in processed foods and can be detrimental to fertility. That’s because they can increase inflammation in the body, which can lead to problems with ovulation. If you’re trying to get pregnant, it’s best to avoid foods that contain trans fats and stick to those that are high in healthy fats, like avocados and nuts.
4. Refined Carbs
Refined carbs, such as white bread and pasta, can also negatively impact fertility. That’s because they cause spikes in blood sugar levels, which can disrupt hormones and make it difficult to conceive. If you’re trying to get pregnant, it’s best to limit your intake of refined carbs and focus on eating more complex carbs, such as beans and whole grains.
5. Soy
Soy is a common ingredient in many processed foods and has been shown to decrease fertility. That’s because soy contains plant estrogens, which can mimic the hormone estrogen in the body and disrupt ovulation. If you’re trying to get pregnant, it’s best to avoid soy-based foods and opt for those that are made with other protein sources, like beans or tofu.
6. Processed Meats
Processed meats, such as bacon and sausage, are also known to decrease fertility. That’s because they’re high in saturated fats and cholesterol, which can clog the arteries and lead to problems with ovulation. If you’re trying to get pregnant, it’s best to limit your intake of processed meats and focus on eating leaner protein sources, like chicken or fish.
7. Full-Fat Dairy
Full-fat dairy products, such as milk and cheese, can also negatively impact fertility. That’s because they contain high levels of saturated fats, which can clog the arteries and lead to problems with ovulation. If you’re trying to get pregnant, it’s best to limit your intake of full-fat dairy and opt for low-fat or non-fat options instead.
8. Canned Foods
Canned foods are often high in sodium and can negatively impact fertility. That’s because sodium can increase blood pressure and lead to problems with ovulation. If you’re trying to get pregnant, it’s best to limit your intake of canned foods and focus on eating fresh or frozen options instead.
9. Artificial Sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners, such as Splenda and Equal, can also decrease fertility. That’s because they can alter hormones and make it more difficult to conceive. If you’re trying to get pregnant, it’s best to avoid artificial sweeteners and opt for natural alternatives, like honey or stevia.
10. High-Mercury Fish
Fish that are high in mercury, such as swordfish and sharks, can also negatively impact fertility. That’s because mercury can interfere with ovulation and make it more difficult to conceive. If you’re trying to get pregnant, it’s best to avoid high-mercury fish and opt for low-mercury options, like salmon or tuna.
While many factors can impact fertility, these are some of the most common. If you’re trying to get pregnant, it’s best to avoid these foods and focus on eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein sources.
