Food can affect fertility. If you’re trying to get pregnant, you might be curious about nutrition. Seven foods to increase fertility is one that we often hear at The Fertility and Gynecology Academy. We are frequently asked: Which foods can harm fertility? Can I start a pregnancy diet if I am pregnant? What foods boost female fertility?
A healthy diet is the foundation of a healthy body. If you are trying to conceive, it is wise to pay attention to nutrition. Seven foods that will help with fertility can be helpful to you.
1. Salmon
Salmon is often called a superfood for good reason. This fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acid, which is essential for many bodily functions including hormone production. Omega-3s are beneficial for both men and woman, as they regulate hormones and reduce inflammation. According to studies, omega-3-rich diets may improve sperm quality in men and women.
Salmon is also a great source of vitamin D. Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to fertility problems, especially in women. Vitamin D can have a positive impact on your reproductive health. It may even be able to play a part in successful implantation.
Salmon is also a good source of selenium. This mineral supports a healthy reproductive system. Selenium has been shown to increase sperm motility, and it may have protective effects for the embryo in early pregnancy. Wild-caught salmon is better than farmed salmon because it contains fewer contaminants like antibiotics and mercury. Salmon can be grilled, baked or added to salads. It is a versatile food that you can add to your diet.

Prepare Salmon for Fertility
Consider these tips for preparing salmon to get the maximum benefit from it:
- Grilled Salmon With Lemon: Marinate the salmon fillets with olive oil, herbs, and lemon juice before grilling.
- Salmon Sala: Combine flaked cooked salmon with avocado and leafy greens in a salad. Add a lemon vinaigrette to make a refreshing and light dish.
- Salmon Tacos Use grilled fish as the filling in tacos. Top with avocado and cabbage slaw for extra nutrients.
2. Lentils
Lentils have a lot of nutritional value, especially when it comes to fertility. The lentils are high in folate, which is a B-vitamin that is essential for DNA repair and synthesis. It is important for women who are trying to get pregnant to consume enough folate, which can help reduce the risk of neural tube defects. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises women to take 400 micrograms of folic every day for at least one month before trying to conceive.
Supplements are useful, but it is always better to get nutrients from foods. Lentils are a good choice of food for women who want to become pregnant because they contain folate, protein, iron and fiber.
Lentils also contain polyamines spermidine which is linked to reproductive health. Several studies suggest that spermidine could play a part in improving ovarian function, and therefore the quality of eggs. Add lentils to your dishes. You can add them to salads, soups, and stews.
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Lentils in Delicious Form
You can add lentils to your diet in a variety of tasty ways.
- Lentil Soup Cook lentils along with diced tomato, carrot, celery and spices to make a nutritious and hearty soup.
- Lentil Salad: Combine cooked lentils, chopped vegetables, herbs and a light dressing for a delicious salad.
- Lentil Burgers: Combine cooked lentils, oats, and spices into patties. Then grill or bake to make a tasty vegetarian burger.
3. Kale and other Antioxidant-rich Foods
Oxidative Stress can affect fertility negatively, especially in men. The body experiences this stress when the balance between antioxidants and free radicals is off. A diet high in antioxidants helps to combat oxidative stress and protect reproductive cells.
Kale is a great source of antioxidants. It contains vitamins C and K as well as phytonutrients. These compounds protect cells against oxidative damage and promote overall health. Blueberries, spinach, red cabbage and artichokes are also high in antioxidants.
These foods can enhance fertility. Prepare a colorful smoothie or salad that includes a variety of these nutrient-rich foods.
Kale is a Great Source of Antioxidants and other Nutrients
Try these suggestions to boost your antioxidant intake:
- Kale smoothie: Combine kale, banana, almond milk and nut butter to make a healthy breakfast smoothie.
- Sauteed Kale Saute kale quickly with olive oil and garlic as a side for any meal.
- Berry Bowl: Combine mixed berries, yogurt and nuts to create a tasty and antioxidant-rich snack.
4. Maca
Maca root is a superfood that comes from Peru and has become popular for its fertility-boosting potential. This adaptogenic herb has been known to balance hormones and increase energy levels. Maca is believed to increase the motility and sperm count of men. It’s also believed that maca supports hormonal balance in females, possibly aiding the reproductive process.
It is easy to add maca powder into many dishes because of its slightly nutty taste. Add it to oatmeal, smoothies or baked goods. You can find it in health food shops and online. It is a great option for women who want to increase their fertility.
Incorporating Maca into Your Diet
Maca is a great ingredient to add to your food.
- Maca Smoothie Blend maca powder, banana, almond milk and spinach to make a healthy breakfast.
- Maca Oatmeal: Mix maca powder with honey, berries and oatmeal in the morning.
- Maca Energy Bite: Mix oats with nut butter, honey and maca powder for no-bake energy bits.
5. Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is delicious and packed with essential nutrients for fertility. It is rich in calcium and vitamin D, two nutrients that are essential for reproductive health. Preconception calcium is especially important to women, as it regulates hormones and supports ovarian functions.
It is simple to incorporate Greek yogurt into your daily diet, since it can be consumed in many different ways. Use it to make a quick snack or breakfast with fertility-friendly fruit like berries, or as the base of smoothies or salad dressings.
Greek Yogurt in Delicious Ways
Try these Greek yogurt ideas to enjoy its benefits:
- Greek yoghurt parfait: Layer Greek yoghurt with granola, mixed berries and berries to make a delicious breakfast.
- Smoothie bowl: Blend Greek Yogurt with your favorite fruit and top it with nuts and seeds for a healthy smoothie bowl.
- Dressing Mix Greek yogurt, herbs and lemon to make a creamy salad dressing.
6. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes can be a great comfort food, but they are also packed with nutrients for women who are trying to get pregnant. Beta carotene is abundant in sweet potatoes, which your body will convert into vitamin A. This vitamin is vital for hormone production.
Sweet potatoes can be used in many different dishes. They are versatile and can be mashed or baked. Sweet potatoes are also rich in complex carbohydrates that provide energy and regulate blood sugar.
How to prepare sweet potatoes in a variety of ways
Sweet potatoes can be used in many different ways.
- Baked sweet potatoes: Bake the whole sweet potato until it is tender, then top with Greek yogurt.
- Sweet Potato fries: Cut the sweet potatoes into wedges and toss them with olive oil. Bake for a healthier version of regular fries.
- Sweet Potato Mash: Boil sweet potatoes and mash them, adding a little maple syrup and cinnamon for a sweet dish.

7. Beetroot
Beetroot, a unique vegetable rich in nutrients and health benefits, is particularly beneficial for fertility. It contains nitric oxide, which dilates blood vessels and increases blood flow. This increased circulation may support the health and function of the reproductive system, as well as aid in embryo implantation.
Beetroot also contains antioxidants and folate, which are both essential for reproductive health. Folate is essential for DNA repair and synthesis, so it’s especially important for women who are trying to get pregnant.
There are many ways to include beetroot in your diet that won’t overwhelm your taste buds.
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Enjoy Beetroot in Delicious Ways
You can add beetroot in many different ways.
- Beetroot Salad : Grate beetroot raw and combine it with carrots shredded and a vinaigrette to make a crunchy salad.
- Beetroot hummus: Combine cooked beetroot, chickpeas and tahini with lemon juice and garlic to make a healthy and colorful dip.
- Roasted Beetroo: Roast beetroot with olive oil, herbs and spices in the oven for a tasty side dish.
What are the best foods to improve male fertility?
Remember that both partners are involved in the process of fertility. The diet of your man can have a significant impact on his sperm count and quality. You can achieve your goal by encouraging him to eat healthier.
Foods that Increase Sperm Count
Oysters: Rich in zinc and known as an aphrodisiac, oysters can increase sperm volume and motility.
Zinc is necessary for the production of testosterone and reproductive health. Zinc is also found in whole grains, beans, beef, poultry and dairy products.
- Fruits & Vegetables Antioxidants in fruits and vegetables can help protect sperm and increase their mobility. Concentrate on foods rich in vitamin E, such as avocados, green vegetables and mangoes. Also, eat vitamin C-rich foods, like tomatoes and oranges. These vitamins help to improve sperm and reduce oxidative stress.
- Nuts : Nuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acid and antioxidants. This may help improve the quality of sperm. Nuts are a great snack to have every day. They contain nutrients that can support reproductive health. Encourage him to eat a variety nuts, but watch the portions to prevent excessive calories.
- Pumpkin Seeds are rich in zinc and omega-3 fats, which are good for sperm. Flaxseeds are also a great option, as they contain essential fatty acids and antioxidants. You can add these seeds to salads, smoothies, and yogurt for an added nutritional boost.
- Pomegranate juice.ce This juice has been shown to boost sperm quality. It can be an excellent addition to his diet. For maximum health benefits, choose 100% pure pomegranate without any added sugars.
- Fatty Fish Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, fatty fish such as salmon and sardines may improve sperm quality. Omega-3s can improve blood flow in the genitals, and they may also support hormone production. To reap the benefits, aim for two portions of fatty salmon per week.
- Maca Root As mentioned previously, maca can increase sperm motility and concentration. It is therefore a valuable addition to his diet. It is also known to increase libido, energy and vigor.
Foods to avoid for male fertility
There are foods that you should limit or avoid.
- Junk food: Sugary, high-fat foods can affect sperm health. Encourage healthy snack choices like whole grains and fruit. Processed snacks can contain additives and unhealthy fats that are harmful to reproductive health.
- Avoid Fish with High Mercury Levels: Fish such as swordfish and shark are high in mercury, which can affect fertility. Choose lower-mercury options like tilapia, salmon, and sardines.
- Alcohol and Caffeinated Drinks: Alcohol and caffeine consumption excessively can reduce sperm counts. Limit your intake of caffeine to only two cups per day, and drink moderately. Encourage the consumption of healthier drinks, such as herbal or sparkling waters.
- In some studies, high-soy diets were linked to lower concentrations of sperm. You may want to limit soy products such as tofu or soymilk, especially when consumed in high quantities.
- High Fat Dairy : Full-fat dairy products can have a negative impact on sperm health. Instead, encourage low-fat alternatives or dairy alternatives. Low-fat dairy products may have a greater benefit for fertility, according to research.
- Processed meat: Diets rich in processed meats are associated with a lower sperm number. Choose lean sources of protein, like chicken, fish and plant-based proteins.

Conclusion
Both men and women can benefit from a healthy diet. You can improve your reproductive health by eating a diet high in vitamins and antioxidants. You can improve your reproductive health by incorporating foods such as salmon, lentils and antioxidant-rich fruit and vegetables. Encourage your partner to consume fertility-boosting food while avoiding harmful alternatives is also important for improving the quality of sperm.
You’ll be more prepared for parenthood if you take a balanced approach to your nutrition. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is also essential. This includes regular exercise, stress management, and avoiding excessive alcohol and smoking. You can optimize the environment for conception by taking good care of your body and choosing healthy foods. Every small change you make can lead to a healthier future for yourself and your family.