A friend of mine recently got back from her honeymoon. She was so excited to share that she’s expecting a honeymoon baby! We were both so excited we got to chatting about the birds and the bees. Its a well know fact that there are a lot of honeymoon babies, but we also know as women that some of us might have a harder time then most getting pregnant.
Today we’re breaking down the top 5 foods to help boost your fertility so you can have that honeymoon baby too!
Keeping you body in top baby-making condition will be easy following this plan and its best to start it 3 to 4 months before you start trying to conceive.
1. Whole Grains
Yes, you are eat carbs, just choose wisely. Complex carbohydrates like whole grain breads, brown rice, stone-ground cornmeal, and oatmeal don’t affect blood sugar and insulin as dramatically as refined carbohydrates (white bread, white rice, bleached flour, etc).
2. Plant Protein
Protein from plants like beans, peas, and peanuts has been associated with increased fertility. Beans are also high in iron, another fertility-helper. No need to become a vegetarian, but do try to limit meat to occasional small portions.
3. Full-Fat Dairy Products
It might be hard to think of whole milk, full-fat yogurt, and even ice cream as fertility foods, but a study at Harvard found that women who consume these foods (as opposed to low-fat or non-fat dairy) have fewer problems with ovulation. And dairy contains calcium, too, which is an important fertility nutrient. Researchers say don’t overdo it with the full-fat stuff, but one serving a day might help (compensate for the extra calories elsewhere in your diet).
4. Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Fresh fruits and vegetables are full of antioxidants, which promote general—and reproductive—health. Plus many fruits and vegetables—oranges and citrus fruits, strawberries, green leafy vegetables—are high in folate, an important nutrient to load up on before pregnancy to prevent birth defects.
5. The “Right” Fats
Just say “no” to trans fats and saturated fats…and yes to monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, and omega-3 fatty acids. These fats reduce inflammation and increase insulin sensitivity. Where to get them? In avocados, nuts, sesame and pumpkin seeds, sardines, and salmon.
You can combine these foods in all sorts of ways to magnify the fertility-boosting impact of any meal or snack. Instead of a plain salmon sushi roll, order the one with avocado. Add almonds to your morning oatmeal. Switch to brown rice at the Chinese restaurant. Indulge in creamy cornmeal polenta with cheese, or add a bit of full-fat yogurt or sour cream to black beans. Fabulous-tasting…and fertility-boosting.
You’ll be in baby-making condition in no time! 😉
Photo courtesy of healthcareswomen.com.
