Like any other disease, infertility is also an indication that something is not right in the body and it needs to be fixed. There are so many factors that can lead to infertility, thus the effectiveness of conventional treatments varies. Here is a list of simple lifestyle changes that can be made to boost fertility. Couples who choose to go for conventional treatments can also try these methods to improve their chances.
1. Nutrition
This is the most important lifestyle change that needs to be made, in order to improve fertility. Nowadays despite being overweight people are undernourished. The body would simply not allow a pregnancy to happen if it is deprived of proper nutrition.
Most women switch to a diet that is low-fat and low-carb in order to lose weight. This weight loss doesn’t prove to be helpful because the body is deprived of the required amount of fat which is crucial to stimulate hormones.
Maintaining a balanced diet that has the appropriate amount of fat, carbohydrates, protein, and fibre would prove to be more beneficial than completely cutting out a group of foods from your diet. You should also avoid consuming processed foods and keep the body’s insulin levels under control as sometimes you may develop insulin resistance, even when you aren’t suffering from type-II diabetes, due to a diet rich in carbohydrates.
2. Lifestyle habits
These are certain habits that you must try to inculcate, in order to reduce the effect of infertility –
• An adequate amount of sleep
Sleep is extremely crucial for hormone production. Studies have found that improper sleep habits result in decreased melatonin and serotonin levels – which causes shortening of the luteal phase (the period between ovulation and menstruation).
• Exercise
Maintaining a healthy exercise routine is also important. While exercising and recreational activities have helped many women with their infertility issues, extreme workouts and low body fat (below 15-18%) may send the body into an anovulatory state.
• Stress
Reducing stress can immensely help you in conceiving. If the above-mentioned points are kept in mind, your quality of life would definitely improve and may also contribute to improving your chances of getting pregnant.
3. Taking supplements and herbs
Fish oil – It contains omega-3s and cod liver oil which helps increase the chance of pregnancy and is beneficial for the healthy development of a fetus.
Herbs –
Maca – Maca is a very potent herb, known for its fertility and vitality promoting properties. It can be taken by both men and women but women should discontinue its consumption during pregnancy.
Chaste Tree Berry – It lengthens the luteal phase. It also raises progesterone level and lowers prolactin.
Red Raspberry Leaf – It is a well-known fertility herb which also is a uterine tonic. It has high nutrient content and is also a rich source of calcium.
Vitamins – Vitamins D, C, B in prescribed amounts should be taken by both men and women prior to conception and by women during pregnancy as well. Folate is another necessary vitamin which helps in ovulation.
