According to recent statistics, about two-thirds of couples who are trying to get pregnant will see success in the first year. For others, it can take up to two years. However, there are a few things you can do to increase your fertility naturally so you can improve your odds.
RELATED: 3 Natural Ways To Fight Infertility
10 Natural Ways To Increase Fertility
1. Stay Away From Alcohol And Cigarettes
Multiple studies have shown that drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes have a negative impact on fertility. While there’s usually an allowable daily limit for alcohol, doctors recommend that you stay away from liquor altogether if you’re trying to get pregnant.
2. Get More Antioxidants In Your Diet
It’s been shown that antioxidants can improve fertility as well as overall health during pregnancy. Generally, antioxidants fight against cell damage so that could be a factor. Some great sources of antioxidants include nuts, green vegetables, seafood, carrots, and fresh fruits.
3. Exercise Regularly
According to a recent study, being physically active improved fertility significantly. When you exercise regularly, you’ll also be able to maintain a healthy weight – which also plays a role in your ability to conceive.
RELATED: Having Trouble Conceiving? Here Are 7 Options For Fertility Treatment
4. Eat More Fiber
Fiber not only helps to balance your blood sugar levels, but it can also help with hormone imbalances as well. That would explain why a study found a link between a regular intake of soluble fiber and a 44 percent decrease in the risk of infertility. A few sources of soluble fiber are fresh fruits, oats, sweet potatoes, whole grains, and avocados.
5. Be Picky About Dairy
If you’ve been reaching for low-fat dairy products then it’s time to opt for the high-fat varieties instead. During a couple of studies, participants who had low-fat dairy had an increased risk of infertility while those who had high-fat dairy products experienced the opposite effect.
7. Mix Up Your Protein Sources
According to a few targeted studies, a diet that’s high in animal proteins can increase your risk of infertility. On the other hand, swapping out animal proteins for plant-based ones can decrease infertility by as much as 50 percent. Some great vegetable proteins are beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, and low-mercury fish.
RELATED: How Much Protein Do Women Really Need Each Day?
8. Choose The Right Supplements
It’s usually good to get all the nutrients you need from your diet but supplements can make a world of difference too. Multivitamins that contain B vitamins, folate, and iron have been shown to significantly increase fertility levels. These supplements are most effective if you take them at least three times per week.
9. Learn To Manage Your Stress Levels
Stress can take a serious toll on your body, including your fertility. Doctors estimate that stress affects your