Fertility Diet - Useful Information

For men, zinc and vitamin D are key in increasing sperm count and virility. So, eating oysters, as well as lots of leafy green vegetables such as spinach, kale, and cabbage can help to increase the amount of zinc in the body, and dairy products, as well as some lean meats, like chicken and fish, can help regulate vitamin D intake. Vitamin D also helps to build strong bones and muscles, especially when paired with calcium, and zinc is a natural antibiotic that helps to boost the immune system and help you get rid of colds quicker.

For women, it is important to stay away from alcohol during the conception process. While beverages like beer, wine, and cocktails do not affect men as much, just a little bit of alcohol can slow the fertilization process down for women dramatically. Instead of drinking a glass of red wine each night for relaxation and antioxidant properties, try a glass of pomegranate or acai juice--you'll most likely get the same effect, and these juices have more antioxidants in them than wine. Also, eating too many soy products when you're trying to get pregnant could slow down the process; soy contains phytoestrogens, which are plant-derived versions of estrogen. Soy can be used to help replace estrogen in women who are lacking the hormone in large amounts, which is usually during menopause. So while drinking soy milk occasionally or having tofu as part of your meal a few nights a week won't hurt, too much soy could decrease your chances of pregnancy. Women also need to stay away from caffeine during this time, but a little coffee is ok for men, especially after they have had alcohol.

In addition to these diet rules, you may find that you need to increase your protein count while you are trying to get pregnant, and once you find out that you are expecting. Black beans, almonds, cashews, and fatty fish like halibut or salmon are great sources, and will help to increase your energy and give you sounder sleep. The protein will also help your baby's systems to develop properly.

If you want to know more about the fertility diet, and how you and your partner can stay healthy throughout the pregnancy process, then visit www.ivillage.com.