7 foods that can enhance fertility

Infertility now affects an estimated average of one in five Australians. The rise of infertility coincides with exposure to many factors. In order to counter this, the food we eat plays an important role.

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Human fertility is the ability of a male and a female to naturally conceive and produce a baby together. However due to many factors such as alcohol, environmental pollution, toxins, use of chemical products and electromagnetic radiation the rate of infertilty  continue to rise. Appropriate nutrition and a revised life style can help to counter the negative forces linked to infertility. It starts by nourishing your body with proper nutrients through the food you eat.

7 Fertility 'superfoods'

Brussel Sprouts

Brussel sprouts are the most valuable of all the cruciferous vegetables when it comes to your overall health, with unique benefits in DNA protection, and thyroid balancing and glucosinolates which are important phytonutrients with cancer protective attributes as well as the other nutritional benefits that come with all vegetables of the brassicas or cabbage family.

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Asparagus

Asparagus is a great source of folic acid. Asparagus is also one of the best natural diuretics as it contains aspartic acid, an amino acid which works to neutralize toxic wastes in the bloodstream, transporting them to the kidneys for elimination. Asparagus has so many nutrients that benefit both male and female.

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Silverbeet

Silverbeet also known as chard is a powerhouse of phytonutrients and antioxidant vitamin C. Plus there's vitamin K for bone health, folates, niacin, B6 and thiamine which are all essential for maintaining optimum cellular function and iron for red blood cell formation. As with all greens, enjoy them for their many benefits but don't overdo it.

Bunch of organic silverbeet on a rustic wooden background close up. Selective focus, shallow dof Source: iStockphoto

Apricots

With magnesium to help prevent miscarriage, iron to transport oxygen in the blood, plus copper, silicon and potassium and anti-oxidizing vitamin C, fresh and dried apricots are a nutrient-dense snack food. However opt for the organic ones either from a farm or a health food specialist.

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Coconut oil

Coconut oil is a saturated fat but what makes it different from other fats that are harmful is its unique 50% lauric acid which gives its powerful antifungal , antiviral and antibacterial properties.

Coconut oil with fresh coconut half on wooden background Source: Moment RF

Pecan nuts

Pecan nuts are one of the best sources of vitamin B6 which works to balance estrogen and progesterone levels and lower prolactin levels. An elevated prolactin can prevent ovulation which will hinder fertility.

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Seaweed

Seaweed contain the vitamins B.D.E and K all of which contribute to hormonal health and fertility. The iodine in seaweed helps boost the thyroid and assist in the correction of hypothyroidism which is one of the commonest causes of infertility and links directly with endemetriosis.

Bowl of seaweed, chopsticks picking up piece Source: PhotoAlto

While the state of your health may depend on a balanced diet and healthy life style, it is vital to seek the help of health experts.

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