Want to concieve? Try red meat!

Nutrients found in red meat play an important role in fertility levels and the general health of women and men planning a pregnancy, says an expert. The intake of red meat and pork can make a differen

By: Editorial Team | | Updated: January 11, 2014 5:23 pm

Nutrients found in red meat play an important role in fertility levels and the general health of women and men planning a pregnancy, says an expert. The intake of red meat and pork can make a difference, reports femalefirst.co.uk. Also Read - Ganesh Chaturthi 2020: 4 reasons an eco-friendly Ganesha is good for you

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‘Red meat is often associated with fertility in so-called ‘old wives’ tales’ and has been traditionally encouraged in the diets of couples trying for a baby. Now we know from scientific research that the nutrients found in red meat really do have a role in normal fertility,’ said Carrie Ruxton from the Meat Advisory Panel. The Meat Advisory Panel is a group of healthcare professionals who provide independent and objective information about red meat. Also Read - Weight loss diet: How to eat healthy in a restaurant when you want to lose weight

Most adults across the globe have chronically low intakes of selenium due to poor levels in soil. Hence, numerous reports implicate selenium deficiency in several reproductive complications including male and female infertility, miscarriage, preeclampsia, foetal growth restriction, preterm labour, gestational diabetes and obstetric cholestasis. (Read: ‘It is possible to figure out the cause for infertility in about a month’)

Pork is an excellent source of selenium and can, therefore, go some way to boosting selenium levels in adults, thus supporting normal reproduction. Vitamin B6 is one of the most important vitamins for conceiving and fertility because it contributes to the regulation of normal hormonal activity. Again, red meat is a rich source of Vitamin B6. ‘The Government recommends that adults eat up to 500 gm of cooked red meat a week which gives the opportunity for four to five meat meals a week, including pork, ham, beef, lamb and bacon,’ added Ruxton. (Read: 10 things that could cause infertility)

Here are some other food options you could try to improve your fertility:

Foods that can boost fertility in men:

Fresh fruits

Fruits are great thanks to the high levels of Vitamin C which ensures the potency and quality of your sperm. If you want to be a daddy, we would recommend at least two portions of fruits like lemon, sweet lime (mousambiin Hindi), oranges and mangoes. They’re all rich packed with nutrients and antioxidants and won’t hit your wallet as hard. (Also read: A bachelor’s guide to eating healthy)

Garlic

Garlic’s health benefits are well-known but various studies have shown that it has aphrodisiac properties and also helps improve blood circulation. No wonder that Twilight fellow looked so peakish and pale! (Also read: 15 health benefits of garlic)

Fish

Rich in fatty acids, many kinds of fish can help you become fit and fertile and get your little ones swimming! Fish contains Essential Fatty Acids which helps improve circulation around the reproductive system and boosts sperm quality in the process! (Also read: Top foods for enhancing fertility)

Foods that can boost fertility in women:

Meat

Meat which is packed with iron is great for reducing the risk of infertility arising during the ovulation process. It also helps boost red blood cells while reducing the threat of anaemia which can lead to severe complications during pregnancies. (Also read: Revealed the truth about non-vegetarian food!)

Nuts

Nuts of various varieties including almonds and walnuts which are rich in Vitamin E content heightens the female sex drive while protecting the embryos from miscarriages. (Also read: Top 10 heart healthy foods)

Potatoes

It’s found that baked potatoes are rich in Vitamin B and E which enhances cell division, increasing the likelihood of a healthy ova being produced.

Eggs

Eggs are an extremely small power-packed nutrition source that boosts fertility. It contains Vitamin B12 and folate which minimises birth defects. In addition, it’s rich in antioxidants and cartenoids which all boost fertility in women. (Also read: Eggs good or bad for health?)

So don’t worry if you find raspberries too expensive or frivolous, there are enough affordable food items which can boost your fertility without hitting your pocket. Oh yes and here are some things you should avoid that cause infertility.

Source: IANS

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Published : January 11, 2014 5:20 pm | Updated:January 11, 2014 5:23 pm

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