Foods must be avoided when trying to conceive

Introduction

When trying to conceive, focus on a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Certain foods must be avoided to give your fertility a much-needed boost.

Foods that must be avoided when you are trying to conceive:

High-Mercury Fish

Fish have a high amount of mercury that is harmful to the body and lowers your chances of getting pregnant. High levels of mercury can negatively impact fetal development and fertility. Don’t eat Swordfish, shark, king mackerel, tilefish, and some types of tuna (especially bigeye tuna). Restrict your fish diet to salmon, cod, or shrimp in less quantity, and avoid another type of fish till your pregnancy is over.

Also Read, Dieting while trying to conceive

Raw Foods

Raw vegetables like sprouts and radish contain bacteria that might cause miscarriage or stop the growth of the fetus. Example– Sushi with raw fish, undercooked poultry or eggs, and raw shellfish. The same is the case with juices and canned vegetables that are full of bacteria and are not pasteurized.

Soy Products

While soy is generally healthy, excess consumption can affect estrogen levels and potentially interfere with ovulation. Soy has certain compounds that affect fertility in men and women. These compounds obstruct and destroy the sperm that swims toward the egg for fertilization. Examples – Soy milk, tofu, edamame, and soy-based meat substitutes.

Soda

Soda or aerated drinks contain a lot of toxins and chemicals that might increase the chances of infertility in women. These toxins lead to hormonal imbalance and infertility.

Some artificial sweeteners, like aspartame, have been linked to negative effects on fertility. It’s best to limit their use and opt for natural sweeteners instead

Unpasteurized Dairy Products

Unpasteurized dairy products can contain Listeria, a bacteria that can lead to miscarriage or other complications during pregnancy.

Low-fat dairy products like low-fat milk, cheese, and yogurt may contain androgens which are known to be male hormones. A high intake of low-dairy products increases the risk of infertility whereas high-fat dairy foods improve fertility by balancing the hormones in women.

Alcohol

Alcohol can negatively impact fertility in both men and women and may affect the chances of conception. It’s best to avoid alcohol entirely when trying to conceive. Alcohol depletes the vitamin B from the body which is necessary to boost the chances of fertility and fetus growth as well. Examples: Beer, wine, spirits, and any other alcoholic beverages

Excessive Caffeine

High caffeine intake (over 200-300 mg per day) has been associated with a reduced chance of conception and an increased risk of miscarriage. Try to avoid Coffee, energy drinks, certain teas, and some soft drinks.

Refined Carbohydrates

Refined Carbohydrates can cause blood sugar spikes and may contribute to insulin resistance, which can affect ovulation. Examples: White bread, white rice, pastries, and other refined grains.