Most women focus on their diet only when they get pregnant or when they are breastfeeding. But, did you know that diet can actually play an important role when you are trying to conceive? Eating healthy foods like green veggies, lentils, dairy products, and nuts are known to increase your chances of conception. While this is true, many studies have also shown that certain foods can get in your way when you are trying to conceive.
What are these foods that you must stay away from when you try to conceive? Let’s take a look.
1. Trans-fats
Trans-fats are found in most packed foods like chips, biscuits, and fried snacks. If you’re trying to conceive, then get into a regular habit of checking the ingredients while buying products from the supermarket. This is because, foods filled with trans-fats can cause inflammation and insulin resistance, which lowers fertility. They can also damage blood vessels, disrupting the flow of nutrients to the reproductive system. In fact, it’s best if your partner is also away from foods containing trans-fats while trying to conceive.
2. Alcohol and Caffeine
Women who are trying to get pregnant are recommended to avoid alcohol completely. Alcohol not only contributes to infertility but also depletes vitamin B, which helps during the conception period. While you don’t have to give up on your morning cup of coffee, it is advisable to limit your caffeine intake to not more than 200 milligrams.
3. Meat
While meat intake is okay, you should be careful when buying it. High levels of environmental contamination may be a concern and could hamper your chances of getting pregnant. Also, tuna fish should be avoided because it contains a high level of mercury which can affect the nervous system.
Avoid these foods as much as you can and switch to a healthy diet when planning a baby.
