If you are just starting your journey towards fertility, it is important to pay attention to your diet. Certain foods could be negatively affecting your fertility and reducing your chances of conceiving. Here are some foods that you should avoid or limit if you are trying to conceive:
1. Low-Fat Dairy: Low-fat dairy products such as skim milk and low-fat yogurt may seem like a healthy choice, but they could be harming your fertility. Studies have shown that full-fat dairy products are associated with improved fertility compared to low-fat or no-fat dairy products. This is because low-fat dairy products are often high in added sugars and hormones that can disrupt your hormonal balance.
2. Simple Carbs: Foods that are high in simple carbohydrates such as white bread, pasta, and pastries can cause spikes in insulin levels and negatively impact your fertility. This is because high levels of insulin can interfere with ovulation and make it more difficult to conceive.
3. Trans Fats: Trans fats are found in many processed foods such as fried foods, baked goods, and margarine. These fats can increase inflammation in the body, disrupt hormonal balance, and reduce fertility.
4. Seafood with High Amounts of Mercury: Certain types of fish such as swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish are high in mercury and can negatively impact your fertility. Mercury can accumulate in the body and interfere with reproductive function.
5. Artificial Sweeteners: Artificial sweeteners such as aspartame and sucralose are often found in diet sodas, low-calorie snacks, and other processed foods. These sweeteners can disrupt your hormonal balance and negatively impact your fertility.
By avoiding or limiting these foods, you can improve your chances of conceiving and increase your overall fertility.