Food has a significant impact on human fertility. This is because poor diet inversely affects our hormones leading to ovulatory issues. While there are several factors like diabetes, abnormal sperm functions, genetic defects and PCOS affecting fertility, research shows that right diet can positively influence pregnancy. Alcohol, saturated fats and sugar are known to lower the odds of conceiving. On the other hand, the top gynecologists in New Delhi suggest that lots of antioxidants, calories and protein can help boost fertility.

A nutritious and well-balanced meal choice can help ease the road to parenthood. Therefore, if you are looking at conception anytime soon, dietary changes are a must. This means bigger breakfast, more fiber and high fat dairy and incorporating natural supplements. Further, below are a few foods with specific nutrients which must be added to your menu.

1. Citrus Fruits

Vitamin C is known to promote the release of folate, which can increase the chances of pregnancy. Further, it is also known to keep the fetus healthy. Fruits like berries, grapes and oranges also promote egg release and stabilize the process of ovulation. In fact, they are also rich in polyamine putrescine which might improve semen and egg health.

2. Sunflower Seeds

This is especially an excellent fertility focused food for men. The kernels have high content have Vitamin E which can boost sperm motility and sperm count. The sperm levels are properly maintained with the consumption of roasted seeds. Further, they are also rich in selenium, zinc and folate which are quite beneficial for female fertility since they are fertility nutrients. The best gynecologists in New Delhi also recommend flax, pumpkin and sesame seeds.

3. Beans and Lentils

Both are an active source of fiber, protein and folic acid. These are highly beneficial in ensuring healthy ovulation, developing proper embryos and helping with conception. Beans are also overflowing with iron which helps with libido and fertility. Further, lentils contain high amounts of polyamine spermidine which can help sperms fertilize the eggs.

4. Egg Yolk

Vitamin B, iron calcium, zinc, folate and vitamin B12 are important fertility boosting components in eggs yolk which are quite important for fertility. They are also enriched with good amounts of protein which is excellent for overall health. In fact, doctors at the top labor and delivery hospitals recommend eggs for both men and women. Another good reason to have eggs is that they are packed with choline which can prevent birth defects and pregnancy complications. Lastly, Omega-3s will also improve the health of the embryo.

5. Salmon

This fish is packed with protein, Omega-3 fatty acid, selenium and Vitamin D which makes it an ultimate fertility booster. In fact, these components also help in proper development of the baby. They also help increase the levels of semen and ensure healthy sperm production. However, since it contains some amounts of mercury, limit your consumption to twice a week.

Other superfoods for reproductive health are avocadoes, cooked tomatoes, Greek yogurt, walnuts, broccoli, asparagus and leafy greens. Get in touch with top dieticians to understand the amounts to be consumed daily.