Nine ways to boost your fertility if you're trying to conceive
Cut back on booze
Alcohol, it's learnt, can have a negative effect on the reproductive system and damage fertility. Experts say that even small amounts can affect the menstrual cycle and reduce the chance of conceiving. Drinking lowers testosterone levels and sperm quality and quantity in men.
Just do it
When trying for a baby you can become obsessed about your fertile time — when your luteinising hormone is at its peak and you're ovulating. Britain's National Institute for Health and Care Excellence says people concerned about fertility must have intercourse every two to three days.
Eat a baby-friendly diet
Eating fresh organic food will help you absorb key antioxidants and nutrients that are beneficial when trying to conceive and reduce intake of pesticides, which have a negative impact on fertility. Zinc improves the maturity and health of eggs - find it in chicken breasts and nuts. Selenium is essential for sperm formation and testosterone - it's in fish, eggs and mushrooms. Yogurt, eggs, fresh salmon, oranges, cabbages and asparagus boost vitamins B12 and C, which increase sperm count. Vitamin E, good for sperm mobility, is found in almonds and tomatoes.
Stop smoking
Smokers are more likely to have fertility problems. A heavy smoker's risk of fertility problems is increased even more. When you smoke, more than 7,000 chemicals spread through your body, which hinder ovulation, damage eggs and sperm motility.
Eat a healthy breakfast
Eating your largest meal in the morning, instead of the evening, may combat polycystic ovary syndrome, a major cause of infertility. Many women with PCOS have high insulin levels, leading to higher levels of testosterone, which disrupts periods. Women eating a healthy breakfast had reduced insulin levels, testosterone and improved ovulation.
Stop popping the pill
It may take up to six months for full fertility to be restored after stopping the contraceptive pill. Get off the pill at least six months before trying to conceive and use alternative means of birth control.
Drink more water
Water is the basis of blood, which in turn feeds every part of us. As well as helping our reproductive system to work, water helps to increase cervical mucus, which helps sperm swim freely through the cervix to the egg.
Stop stressing
When stressed, fertility can temporarily shut down. Ovulation ceases and hormone levels are disrupted. Try yoga, meditation, and massage. Taking a break can also help. We've heard of people who struggled with fertility then conceived on holidays.
Do the right exercise
Moderate exercise is good for fertility but vigorous exercising can have a negative impact. Keep fit but ditch exhausting workouts and try yoga, gentle pilates, walking and swimming.
BDST: 1649 HRS, Nov-11, 2014
