Nutrition for women with fertility problems

Unsat­u­rated fatty acids

They are important for building new cell structures.
Foods: olive oil, fish

A diet rich in fibre

It reduces the levels of toxic metals in the body (e.g. lead).
Foods: fruit, vegetables, lettuce, wholemeal wheat

Complex carbo­hy­drates

They provide valuable nutrients and keep insulin levels stable.
Foods: vegetables, salads, fruit, wholemeal wheat

Simple carbo­hy­drates

They contain very few nutrients, but they can raise insulin levels. This can have a negative effect on fertility.
Foods: flour, sugar

High-quality proteins

They are important for the structure of cells.
Foods: pulses, soya and animal products, e.g. lean meat, fish and dairy products.

Zinc

Zinc has a positive effect on women’s fertility. Low zinc levels increase the risk of miscarriage.
Foods: meat, fish, milk, eggs, wholegrain cereals

Folic acid

A lack of folic acid increases the likelihood of miscarriage. It should also be mentioned that a lack of folic acid often causes malformations of the central nervous system. Since the embryo needs folic acid at an early stage of its development, taking folic acid before treatment starts is recommended.
Foods: leafy vegetables, salads, wholegrain cereals, fruit, tomatoes, egg yolk

Iron

Important for forming haemoglobin in the blood and for carrying oxygen.
Foods: meat, green leafy vegetables, cereals, nuts

Also read about nutrition for men with fertility problems and how lifestyle affects fertility.