In Pakistan, there has been a gradual reduction in women’s fertility over the years, and many women actively seek therapies to boost their fertility and chances of conception. Pakistan’s current fertility rate in 2022 is 3,300 births per woman, a decrease of 1.87% from 2021. This indicates that one out of every five Pakistani couples cannot have children (Source: Oladoc). As more and more people seek assistance, we’re here to question our onboard dietician, Fareeha Jay, if nutrition has a significant part in improving the likelihood of becoming more fertile and conceiving.
“There are numerous variables that can influence fertility. “Nutrition is merely one component,” says Fareeha Jay.
We must remember that we cannot rely just on diet and cannot place the blame on nutrition, as many other factors may also be at play. However, nutrition can have a significant role in increasing fertility and optimizing the likelihood of conception. A healthy, well-balanced diet supports general health, which in turn supports reproductive health. Today, we’re going to discuss a few meals that may increase fertility:
1) Complete Grains
High in fiber are whole grain foods such as brown bread, brown atta roti, brown rice, and brown pasta. They are released more slowly in the blood, resulting in decreased insulin levels. In order to conceive, it is vital for women to have low insulin levels. Wholemeal contains folate and zinc, which contribute to the quality of an egg.
2) Plant-Based Protein
Try integrating protein derived from plants into your diet. Include in your diet lentils, beans, chickpeas, nuts, seeds, and soya. These foods may minimize infertility chances.
3) Green Vegetables
Folate is one of the most essential nutrients for fertility and is found in green vegetables. In addition to taking folic acid supplements, women trying to conceive should consume a diet rich in folate. Include spinach, lettuce, cabbage, broccoli, and spring onions in your diet.
4) Fish
The consumption of oily fish such as mackerel, sardines, and pilchards is beneficial to fertility. If the availability of this particular fish becomes a difficulty, there are two possible alternatives. You can have omega 3 supplements. Ensure that the supplements contain both DHA and EPA (fatty acids). Chia seeds, flax seeds, and walnuts are additional alternatives to fish. They include ALA, which must be converted by the body into EPA and DHA. This conversion is not very productive. However, if other options are limited, be sure to incorporate them into your diet.