Brussels sprouts – Brussels sprouts are loaded with folate and are essential for your diet if you’re trying to conceive or are expecting. Brussels sprouts have also been found to help increase sperm counts for men and help in keeping uterine lining, which is essential for implantation.

Pumpkin seeds – Pumpkin seeds are a real powerhouse for your fertility. They’re loaded with zinc which has been termed “the most important fertility mineral.” Research has also linked pumpkin seeds to reductions in early miscarriages.

Sweet potatoes – The fertility diet, by and large, does not include potatoes. White potatoes, that is. Sweet potatoes and yams are a wonderful food to include in the fertility-friendly diet. They are a great source of healthy carbs and they’re also high in vitamin C, B, and vitamin B6. These antioxidants protect against cell damage so they’re great for protecting your eggs and improving egg health!

Apples – An apple a day proverbially keeps the doctor away and a lesser known fact is that it helps boost your fertility too. Apples are considered a balanced fruit with a good mix of all nutrients. They’re a low calorie fruit, so they’re a great choice for getting the nutritional benefits of fruit without all the sugar that’s found in other fruits.

Lentils – Lentils are considered one of the richest sources of folate (natural folic acid) which is equally as important for male fertility as it is for female fertility. Men with lower folate intake often have higher rates of chromosomal abnormalities in their sperm which can affect fertility.

Eggs – Eggs are packed with nutritional sources that boost fertility. They contain vitamin B12 and folate, both of which minimize birth defects. Eggs are also rich in antioxidants and carotenoids which also help to boost fertility in women.

Olive oil – This is another good choice for health and fertility. Extra virgin olive oil especially makes for a great cooking oil of choice, because it is rich in vitamin E which helps protect the health of our cells, including our egg and sperm cells.

(Written by: Dr. Pankaj Shrivastav, Director of Conceive Gynecology & Fertility Hospital)