Due to the increasing number of infertile couples, the role of lifestyle factors in the development of infertility has gained significant attention in the medical field. Lifestyle factors like diet, presence or absence of any exercise routine, etc combined with age, weight, and stress affect the fertility of an individual and a couple. Many factors can be significantly dangerous and may cause harm to one's fertility, while many preventive measures such as quitting smoking might be helpful. This article aims to identify how some of the lifestyle habits affect one's fertility or infertility. Read what IVF Specialist Dr. Kaberi Banerjee, Director of Advance Fertility and Gynaecology Centre has to say.
Diet
We all are aware of the benefits of eating healthy and having a good diet. But what we might not be aware of is that processed foods, preservatives, added fats, might lead to many health issues like weight gain or loss, which directly or indirectly encourages infertility in both men and women. Therefore, correct nutrition, especially when you're planning to conceive, is very crucial.
Not only a healthy diet contributes to conceiving but also a healthy birth. This is precisely why pregnant women are often out on a stick and healthy diets. Treating yourself with organic food rather than processed and preserved can be extremely healthy, and helpful. Eat more fruits and vegetables, give a 2-3 hour gap between each meal, have a protein and fibre rich breakfast and an early dinner.
Also Read: Fertility Expert Explains The Role of Nutrition For Female Fertility
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Exercise
Many studies have shown that vigorous and regular exercise might help reduce the risk of ovulation problems. Exercising, in general, is very helpful in the healthy management of weight, therefore, reducing the risk of developing obesity, which is a hurdle in fertility and pregnancy.
Smoking
Studies show that men and women who smoke are more exposed to the risk of having fertility problems than non-smokers. Also, studies show that quitting smoking might lead to better fertility. According to research, quitting smoking can multiply the chances of pregnancy by almost a half. Egg and Sperm quality deteriorate significantly in women and men who smoke.
Also Read: Does Father’s Age Affect Conception? Find Link Between Male Age and Fertility
Alcohol
Alcohol can adversely affect one's fertility in many ways. It can alter the sperm count, shape, and motility and lower the amount of testosterone produced in the male's body.. Excessive consumption of alcohol leads to reduced chances of conceiving and increase chances of miscarriage and congenital malformation.
Sleep
According to research, women who sleep for less than 7 hours per day are 15% less likely to get pregnant than those who sleep for 7 hours or more.
- Women under IVF treatment are 25% more likely to conceive if they sleep for 7 hours or more.
- With men, studies show that those who sleep for 7 hours or more in a day are more likely to contribute better to a pregnancy.
Water
When A woman is trying to conceive, she needs to drink an appropriate amount of water. It helps flush out all the waste from the body as when a person is dehydrated, the toxins are more likely to linger in their tissues. Also, intake of the appropriate amount of water helps to curb caffeine and food cravings.
Also Read: Did You Know Coffee Addiction Can Harm Your Fertility? Read Doctor’s Observation
Stress
Studies show that stress not only puts you off from indulging in any sexual activity but also causes unexplained infertility. Chronic stress can cause an increase in hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which are bad for general health too. It is not a lesser-known fact that a stress-free mind promotes a healthy body, so when trying to conceive, a couple should try and destress. Indulging into activities suggested by professionals to destress yourselves can prove to be very helpful.
Conclusion
Here were some points that you can keep in mind and have a healthy and happy parenthood ahead! You must keep a tab on these factors if you are planning pregnancy and want to have a healthy baby.
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