Top Wayne County Obstetrician

Top Obstetrician’s Simple Steps to Improve Fertility

If becoming pregnant is taking you longer than you had planned, there are many steps you can take to improve your chances of conceiving a child. Of course, in some case, underlying medical problems may be the cause of infertility. But for many women who are trying to become pregnant, some simple lifestyle changes can help balance the body in ways that can significantly improve the odds of becoming pregnant.

Elevating your fertility potential by making informed lifestyle choices should always be the first step, before resorting to artificial or expensive fertility treatments. In this article top Wayne County obstetrician Dr. Chadi Haddad explains the science behind seven strategies, backed by research, that can enhance your fertility potential.

1. Eat A Big Breakfast to Improve Fertility

Balanced nutrition isn’t just about what you eat, but when you eat it. And top Wayne County obstetrician Dr. Chadi Haddad recommends commencing your day with a substantial breakfast as a strategic move for hormonal regulation that can enhance fertility.

A morning meal rich in complex carbohydrates and protein helps manage insulin levels. And stable insulin levels, in turn, support optimal testosterone regulation, contributing to a healthier hormonal environment for fertility.

2. Cut Out Sugar to Improve Fertility

Reducing refined sugar intake isn’t merely about calorie control. Excessive sugar consumption also causes rapid spikes in blood glucose, triggering insulin surges. High insulin levels disrupt the delicate balance of reproductive hormones, affecting ovulation and menstrual regularity.

Elevated insulin can cause the body to produce fewer reproductive hormones, which can contribute to a lack of egg maturation and reduced ovulation. While cutting out sugar aids in maintaining stable insulin, fostering an environment conducive to fertility. So, replace soda or sugary treats with a handful of nuts instead.

3. Replace Animal Proteins with Beans to Improve Fertility

Opting for plant-based proteins, particularly beans, introduces a spectrum of fertility-friendly nutrients. Fiber-rich, plant-based diets positively impact insulin sensitivity and regulate menstrual cycles. Moreover, the antioxidants and phytochemicals in beans contribute to reducing oxidative stress, fostering a favorable environment for reproductive health.

Recent medical research studies have revealed that when as little as 5% of total daily calories come from vegetable protein instead of animal protein, the risk of ovulation-related infertility decreased by more than 50%.

4. Work Out in Moderation to Improve Fertility

Regular, moderate exercise is a scientifically proven method to enhance fertility. Physical activity supports hormonal balance, reduces stress, and contributes to a healthy body mass index (BMI), all of which are crucial factors in fertility.

And, striking a balance with exercise is important to avoid extremes that could potentially negatively impact reproductive health. Over-exercising or training to aggressively can cause a neuroendocrine disorder, that causes metabolic changes with negative effects on the reproductive system and fertility.

In fact, a recent Norwegian medical research study found that women who were excessively active daily were 3.2 times more likely to have fertility problems than more moderately active women.

5. Choose High Fat Dairy to Improve Fertility

Incorporating high-fat dairy into your diet can also improve fertility. Whole milk and yogurt contain saturated fats that play a role in promoting ovarian function. These fats contribute to the synthesis of hormones crucial for reproductive health, creating an environment that supports conception.

Recent clinical studies have shown that a high intake of low fat dairy foods can actually increase the risk of infertility – while high fat dairy foods may serve to improve fertility. One large research study in 2007 found that women who at at least one or more servings of high fat dairy per day were 27% less likely to be infertile.

So, try to incorporate at least one glass of whole milk or one serving of full fat yogurt into your diet every day if you are trying to get pregnant.

6. Reduce Stress to Improve Fertility

Chronic stress has profound physiological effects on fertility. High stress levels trigger the release of cortisol, which can disrupt the delicate balance of reproductive hormones. Stress reduction practices like yoga and meditation mitigate the impact of stress on the hypothalamus and pituitary glands, contributing to a more favorable hormonal environment for fertility.

Journaling can also help reduce stress. According to research released by the Mayo Clinic, writing down your thoughts in a journal is one of the most effective ways to release emotions and decrease stress.  Listening to music, laughing at a comedy, or going for walks can all reduce stress hormones, too!

7. Take Supplements to Improve Fertility

Supplements play a vital role in addressing potential nutrient deficiencies that might impact fertility. Folic acid supports fetal development and helps prevent neural tube defects. Vitamin D is linked to improved fertility outcomes, by helping the woman’s body create sex hormones that affect ovulation and hormonal balance.

Omega-3 fatty acids also contribute to hormonal balance, while antioxidants combat oxidative stress, collectively creating an environment conducive to fertility.

Vitamin B6 controls blood sugar levels, which helps regulate hormones – in addition to reducing PMS and relieving morning sickness. While Vitamin B12 improves sperm quality, strengthens the endometrial lining, and helps decrease the chances of miscarriage.

The mineral Selenium is an antioxidant that helps to protect the egg and sperm from free radical damage. And the mineral Zinc controls estrogen and progesterone levels to helps support a healthy reproductive system.

Top Wayne County Obstetrician

These simple but important lifestyle changes can empower women to make informed decisions that support their fertility goals. Always consult with your obstetrician to tailor these strategies to your unique health profile and optimize your chances of achieving a healthy pregnancy.

When you schedule your first appointment with Top Wayne County Obstetrician Dr. Chadi Haddad, he will look at your overall health and discuss your diet and other lifestyle issues, to help you determine how you can make the choices in your life that support optimal fertility to give you the greatest chance of becoming pregnant.

Top Wayne County Obstetrician: 313.561.2200