Proper fertility diet encourages the full expression of potential fertility in each individual. Both egg and sperm are equally important in conception and in the health of a baby. Dietary therapy is an excellent way to support Jing, the prenatal essence in Chinese medicine.
To embrace a fertile way of eating, both partners need to adopt a diet that is based on a natural, whole foods, mostly plant-based, anti-inflammatory diet that includes the following:
Whole Foods
Whole foods are minimally processed and refined as little as possible before being eaten. Whole foods provide maximum nutrients, fiber, enzymes, antioxidants, and taste without added artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, sweeteners, or trans fats. Whole foods are simple, local, unrefined foods, where processing is limited to enhancing digestibility (soaking, fermenting) or to food preservation such as canning, smoking, curing and drying.
Slow Carbs of Low Glycemic Index
Slow carbohydrates are a group of carbohydrates that are slowly digested, causing a slower and lower rise in blood sugar after being eaten. They include beans, peas, lentils, whole grains, and most vegetables. Eating slow carbs help to minimize insulin resistance, regulate blood sugar, improve fertility, and prevent gestational diabetes.
Plant-Based Foods
Plant-based foods include a rainbow of high fiber, high antioxidant fruits and vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. A plant based diet means that most (but not necessarily all) of the diet is based on plant foods and is associated with health promotion, disease prevention and longevity around the world. It may be vegan, vegetarian, or include small amounts of red meat, fish, poultry, eggs and dairy.
Non GMO Foods
Research (http://natural-fertility-info.com/gmo-infertility.html) indicated that fertility rates have suffered dramatically due to GMO exposure, as has the health of the human immune system. Those who regularly ingest GMO foods are more likely to be sick, age faster and have a harder time getting (and staying) pregnant. Most prevalent GMO foods include soy, corn and potatoes. The best way to avoid GMO foods, buy Organic, especially for eggs, dairy and meat.
Healthy Fats
Healthy fats and oils that are pressed (slow, low temperature and unrefined – free of chemical solvents) naturally from whole plant foods (coconuts, nuts, seeds, avocado, olives) and found in wild, deep sea, short-lived fish. Healthy fats combat cellular inflammation, and improve hormonal sensitivity.
High Antioxidant Foods
High antioxidant fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices help to decrease oxidative stress and cellular inflammation associated with decreased fertility. Organic produce has been shown to be higher in antioxidants
High Quality Dairy
Small amounts of full fat (non-homogenized) dairy products – in particular, live culture plain yogurt and kefir as well as high quality artisan (naturally fermented) organic cheese as all of these are associated with increased fertility.
Healthy Weight
Research has shown that obesity and infertility are linked. Weight balance for optimal fertility includes a healthy body mass index (BMI) between 20 and 25. Even a 5%-10% of weight loss can positively influence your ability to ovulate.