Boosting Your Fertility: Unveiling the Power of Supplements
The journey to parenthood is an exciting time in people’s lives. There are numerous factors, in your control, that can influence fertility.
Boosting Your Fertility: Unveiling the Power of Supplements
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, proper nutrition, and wellness practices are key components to increasing your chances of conception. In addition to a balanced diet and regular exercise, certain supplements have gained attention for their potential to support fertility. Let’s explore some of the supplements that have been researched and recommended by healthcare professionals.
1. Folic Acid and Folate
Folic acid is a B-vitamin that plays a crucial role in cell division and early fetal development. It can help
prevent neural tube defects such as Spina Bifida and Anencephaly in the developing fetus. While folic
acid can be found in fortified foods and prenatal vitamins, it's also beneficial to consume foods rich in
natural folate, such as leafy greens, lentils, and citrus fruits.1 Folic acid can help with erectile dysfunction.
2. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
CoQ10 is an antioxidant that plays a role in energy production within cells. It is naturally found in the human body, primarily concentrated in the mitochondria (the powerhouse of the cell) Some research suggests that CoQ10 may improve egg quality and overall reproductive health. 3 Egg development requires a great amount of energy for its development and is prone to oxidative stress. It could be relevant for women of advanced maternal age, as egg quality tends to decline with age. Thus, CoQ10 has become a popular supplement to take for women of reproductive age to support cellular energy, protect eggs from the inevitable aging process and improve cellular function. Always consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating CoQ10 into your supplement regimen.
3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
They are found in fish oil and certain plant-based sources and are known for:
Increasing blood flow to the uterus
Reducing inflammation in the body
Improving the ability of the embryo to implant in the uterus
There is also evidence that shows omega-3s are essential to sperm function as they help build the acrosome of the sperm cells. This is the covering over the sperm’s oval head and is what works to break down the outer layer of an egg cell for fertilization.4
4. Vitamin D
Did you know that over 42% of adults in the United States are Vitamin D Deficient!5 Commonly known as “The Sunshine Vitamin” Vitamin D is essential for bone health, immune function, and hormone regulation. Research indicates that vitamin D may influence fertility by affecting hormone balance and supporting the menstrual cycle. Spending time in sunlight and consuming vitamin D-rich foods like fortified dairy products, fatty fish, and eggs can help maintain adequate levels.6 It is important to get your Vitamin D levels checked by your healthcare provider who will then discuss with you the optimal dose of Vitamin D for you.
5. Zinc
Zinc is a mineral involved in numerous bodily functions, including hormone regulation and cell division. It's crucial for both male and female fertility. In men, zinc supports healthy sperm production, while in women, it's essential for proper egg development and implantation. Incorporating zinc-rich foods like lean meats,
nuts, and whole grains into your diet can help support fertility.7
6. Vitex (Chasteberry)
Vitex is a herbal supplement that has been traditionally used to support hormonal balance. Some women use vitex to help regulate their menstrual cycles and improve conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). However, it's important to consult wconsult with a healthcare professional before using vitex,th a healthcare professional before using vitex, especially if you are taking other medications.8
Final Thoughts
While supplements can potentially support fertility, it's important to remember that they are not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet. Fertility is a complex and individualized journey. By focusing on overall well-being, proper nutrition, and consulting with professionals, you can take proactive steps to support your fertility journey and increase your chances of a successful conception. Before adding any new supplement to your routine, it's crucial to consult with your OBGYN or fertility specialist, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
The Fertility RN, Kim Schamroth, is a reproductive endocrinology infertility nurse with extensive 5+ years experience at leading fertility clinics in NYC, including the Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine. She's helped educate and guide thousands of women on their fertility journeys, both online and offline.
Medical Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider or qualified medical professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this blog.
Sources:
1- https://www.verywellfamily.com/folic-acid-for-female-and-male-fertility-1959878#:~:text=If%20you've%20been%20looking,important%20role%20in%20cell%20division. 2- https://www.verywellfamily.com/tips-to-increase-fertility-for-men-1959906
3- https://ivi-fertility.com/blog/coq10-for-egg-quality/#:~:text=It%20found%20that%20women%20who,number%20of%20high%2Dquality%20embryos 4- https://www.ccrmivf.com/blog/fertility-benefits-omega3-fatty-acids/
5-https://healthmatch.io/blog/42-of-americans-are-deficient-in-vitamin-d-are-you-at-risk-if-so-what-can
6-https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6265788/
7-https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7926410/
8-https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vitex#womens-reproduction