Here at The Womb Room we like to provide you with the best Womb Service possible so we’ve done some digging to find out the 5 best fertility boosting food groups!
1) Whole Grains
You don’t have to give up carbs, just choose wisely. Complex carbohydrates such as whole grain gluten free breads, wild rice, stone-ground cornmeal, and organic oatmeal don’t affect blood sugar and insulin as dramatically as refined carbohydrates (white bread, white rice, bleached flour, etc). Anything that’s good for insulin function is good for your fertility.
If you fancy trying something super why not add Quinoa or Amaranth to your diet instead of rice?
2) Plant Power
Protein from plant sources such as beans, peas, nuts and legumes has been associated with increased fertility. Although there are arguments that protein from red meat and poultry is the easiest and healthiest way to ensure you get your daily intake – plants are power! Unlike meat proteins, plant based proteins are free from antibiotics and other nasty chemicals which are often used in the production and processing of meat. This isn’t to say plants are free from chemicals so where possible you should try to buy organic to ensure your fruit and veg are as nutritious and chemical free as possible. Beans are also high in iron, another fertility-helper. Not set to become a vegetarian? No worries, but do try to limit meat to occasional small portions.
Trying to go organic on a budget? Try budget supermarkets such as Aldi and local farmers markets for good quality organic fruit and veg.
3) Mylk
It might be hard to think of giving up whole milk, full-fat yogurt, and even ice cream, but replacing these items with nut or grain based mylks can help to boost your health and fertility over time. Although dairy contains calcium which is an important fertility nutrient it often contains traces of other things such as artificial growth hormones and antibiotics. These are unfortunately a part of factory farming processes which can have a negative impact upon fertility. Try switching to an organic oat milk if you like a full creamy taste or switch it up with some hazelnut mylk if you fancy a chocolatey twist!
Not sure where to start with Mylk? Most supermarkets sell a variety of Hemp, Oat, cashew, rice and almond Mylks. If you suffer with endometriosis try to avoid soya as this can exacerbate some of the symptoms associated with it.
4) Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Where to begin with how healthy and important for fertility fresh produce is? First of all, it’s full of antioxidants, which promote general—and reproductive—health. Plus many fruits and vegetables—oranges and citrus fruits, strawberries, green leafy vegetables—are high in folate, an important nutrient to load up on before pregnancy to help prevent birth defects. If you’re not a fan of eating lots of green with dinner try juicing or replacing your daily lunch with a soup, this will help ensure your body stays hydrated and you get 1 of your 5 a day.
Juicing to help increase your daily intake of fruits and vegetables can also help to improve digestive function and skin health. Stuck for a recipe? Why not try our Fresh and Fruity Seasonal Juice!
5) The Good, The Fats and The Ugly: Monounsaturated, Polyunsaturated, Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Say “no” to trans fats and saturated fats…and yes to monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, and omega-3 fatty acids. These fats reduce inflammation and increase insulin sensitivity. Where to get them? In avocados, nuts, sesame and pumpkin seeds, sardines, and salmon.
You can combine these foods in all sorts of ways to magnify the fertility boosting impact of any meal. Instead of a plain chicken sandwich order some avocado on the side. Add almonds or coconut pieces to your morning porridge. Indulge in some creamy tapioca pudding, or add a bit of coconut yogurt to desert instead of ice cream. Fabulous, tasty…and fertility boosting.
Going out? Why not ask if the restaurant serves brown rice instead of white rice for a quick fertility friendly adjustment?
Share your fertility boosting tips with us!