Pnm-9: Infertility and Healthy Diet

Background: Over the past twenty years, fertility problems have increased dramatically. At least 25 percent of couples planning a baby will have trouble conceiving, and more and more couples are turning to fertility treatments to help them have a family. Eating a fertility diet in preparation for pregnancy and to boost fertility is one of the most powerful health changes everyone can make. It is true, food can increase sperm production and save partner from indecently expensive infertility treatments when they want to start a family. Here are some good health tips for men to stay fertile and potent. Materials and Methods: This study is a comprehensive literature review from 1990 to 2oo11 with keywords including infertility, healthy and diet, is carried out by searching Iranian and International databases including Iran Medex, IranDoc, Pubmed, Sience Direct and Ovid. Results: Nutrients in food for increasing fertility are: 1. Selenium: This is an unusual mineral that increases the motility of sperms. Selenium rich food increase sperm’s mobility and thus raises the chances of conception. Foods: Cottage cheese, eggs, chicken, turkey and nuts. 2. Zinc: This a very vital mineral required for regulating body’s testosterone level. Testosterone as is the hormone responsible for male reproductive functions. Until and unless men have sufficient Zinc in their body, testosterone is not produced in adequate amounts which in turn reduce sperm count. Foods: Abundantly available in red meat, seafood and eggs. Vegetarians need to watch it. Have pumpkin seeds and oatmeal. 3. Vitamin A: The Vitamin A rich food increases the value of sperm production by making sure that the sperms that are produced are healthy and agile. If men have a deficiency of this vitamin then their sperms will be slow and lazy, not good enough for conception. Foods: Carrots are best but red chilli peppers, spinach, iceberg lettuce, broccoli and dry fruits like apricots too will be good for increasing fertility. 4. Vitamin C: We probably consume citrus foods for the protection against cold but the antioxidants in them help ‘cleanse’ the sperms. They get rid of toxins and purify the semen by extracting free radicals. Foods: Oranges, lemon, red and yellow bell peppers, tomatoes are foods that increase fertility. 5. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These are special boosters that when present in the blood increases the blood circulation of the male reproductive organs hence giving energy and boosting potent sperm production. Foods: Found mainly in fish like Salmon and Sardines. Walnuts also could be an alternative for vegetarians. Conclusion: Both partners should follow the dietary recommendations .Although it goes without saying that a healthy diet is crucial to a successful pregnancy and a healthy baby, many people are unaware of the fact that diet can help to correct hormone imbalances that may affect your ability to conceive. There are also certain foods and drinks that are known to lower fertility.