Egg and Sperm Health
As a fertility and pregnancy dietitian, I understand the complexities and concerns that come with trying to conceive, especially if you're over the age of 35.
I want to shed light on a crucial aspect of fertility:
Egg & Sperm Health
I recently went live on IGTV answering YOUR questions! You can check out HERE.
You might have been told that age is the primary factor affecting fertility and that there's little you can do...
However, regardless of age, there are measures you can take to enhance the health of your eggs and sperm, ultimately impacting your chances of conception and the health of your future child.
Here are some insights into common questions and misconceptions:
Weight and Fertility: I dislike focusing too much on weight. However, your weight could play a role in fertility. Studies suggest that overweight or obese individuals may have eggs more prone to chromosomal damage. Both excess weight and being underweight can affect fertility negatively-for males and females. Luckily, we can work together to make changes so you are a healthy weight for conceiving.
Dietary Considerations:
Eating a Mediterranean diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and low mercury fish is beneficial for fertility. While it's not necessary to avoid meat entirely, high-heat cooking, particularly of meats, can lead to the formation of toxic compounds called Advanced Glycation End-products (AGEs), which may impair egg health.
Nutrient-Rich Foods: Incorporating antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and folate into your diet can support egg and sperm health. These nutrients are found in a variety of foods like vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seafood 🦪
Supplementation: While folate supplementation is commonly associated with maternal health, it's also vital for male fertility. However, I urge you to be cautious with too much supplementation. At the least it can be a waste of time and money, and sometimes can even have adverse effects.
Remember, fertility is a multifaceted journey, and optimizing egg and sperm health is just one aspect.
By focusing on factors within your control, such as diet and lifestyle, you can enhance your chances of conception and pave the way for a healthy pregnancy and child.
If you are feeling concerned and would like personalized guidance, feel free to book a call with me.
Your journey towards parenthood is unique, and I'm here to support you every step of the way.