When you're trying to have a baby, you have to be extra cautious about what you eat, what physical activities you part-take in, etc. in order to stay healthy and provide all the required nutrients for your baby.
Book an appointment to consult Dr Ramya Gowda for fertility concerns.
Some diets help boost your fertility, while some food items may decrease your chances of conceiving, which is why you must know what's on your plate. Especially when you're trying to conceive as it may affect your fertility and decrease your chances of getting pregnant. The following are some food items one must avoid while trying:
Trans fats - research shows that food that contains trans fats is directly linked with infertility for women. The level of cholesterol in these types of food items may also increase the risk of heart diseases. And in excess they can damage your blood vessels, disrupting the flow of nutrients to the reproductive system.
Dairy products - low-fat dairy products like low-fat milk, contain male hormones that get left in when the fat is removed, which may interfere with your menstrual cycle. And high-fat dairy products like cream and cheese may be associated with decreased sperm count which may be due to some sex steroids given to cows.
Alcohol and aerated beverages - the consumption of alcohol decreases your chances of conceiving and may contribute to infertility as well. Alcohol deprives our body of vitamin B which helps improve your chances of pregnancy and is required for the support of the growth of a fetus. Aerated and high sugar drinks contain high levels of preservatives and artificial flavoring which are toxic for your body, especially while trying to conceive.
Raw meat or processed meat - raw meat such as sushi and carpaccios contain bacteria that can infect a fetus if it passes through the placenta. Although processed meat may taste delicious, research shows that processed red meat may decrease your sperm count, as they may not be healthy, especially when you're trying to have a baby.
High mercury fish - due to water pollution, some fish contain high levels of mercury and can damage your nervous system, and harm the fetus directly. Mercury may also decrease fertility. Mercury-rich seafood such as tuna and swordfish must be completely avoided while you're trying. It may be better to limit yourself to specific varieties such as salmon, or shrimp as they are low-mercury fish and are immensely nutritious and recommended during pregnancy.
The couple needs to be cautious about their actions while trying to have a baby, as the woman's body needs to be capable of providing and supporting the child. It is better to do your research and find out what is good and what is not for your body and your baby. Although getting pregnant may not be as easy as you may have thought, the process is beautiful and all of it will be worth it when you wrap your arms around your bundle of joy! Stay healthy, stay happy!