How Antioxidants, Vitamin C Could Help You Conceive

Having a baby isn’t always simple; conception often doesn’t happen on the first try, or the second, or beyond. For many couples, this means becoming parents will take a concentrated effort and possible dietary, lifestyle, and method changes. Some opt for conventional fertility medications, hormone therapies, and even things like in-vitro fertilization. There are numerous methods for boosting fertility, with some research showing that a fertility diet including raspberries may be able to increase the likelihood that conception will happen without medical interference.

Certain foods boost fertility in men and certain foods in women. But there are some treasures that can have beneficial fertility effects in all people.

Raspberries are said to be one of these foods, according to one fertility nutritionist.

“’Raspberries have not yet been given the ‘super-food’ recognition of other berries, but they have a comparable bounty of nutrients which shouldn’t be ignored,” said Juliet Wilson, a fertility nutritionist, according to the Daily Mail. “Alongside their many health benefits, raspberries are a perfect snack for couples trying to conceive.”

One of the most fertility-enriching inclusions in raspberries is vitamin C. A recent study from the US Department of Energy’s Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found that men with the highest intakes of vitamin C had the healthiest sperm. The study was specific to men over the age of 44, though the fertility benefits of vitamin C are well known among all adults. Those men involved in the study had 20% less damage to their sperm DNA than those who had lower vitamin C intake.

One serving of raspberries has as much vitamin C as 173 grapes. In addition to the vitamin C, they are a good source of magnesium—great for healthy testosterone production.

Read: Infertility a Problem for 1 in 6 Couples – Factors to Consider

The antioxidants within raspberries are believed to protect sperm from cellular damage and even decrease the risk of miscarriage after conception.

But the berries aren’t only good for hopeful fathers, they contain folate which is an important nutrient for women who are hoping to conceive and those who are already carrying a child. They also help maintain a healthy body weight, which is important in hormone regulation and reproductive health overall.

“Raspberries are often overlooked,” said Nick Martson of British Summer Fruits in regards to raspberries being compared to other “Super Fruits” like blueberries. “But, their numerous fertility-boosting properties and antioxidants make them the perfect bedtime snack.”

Having a baby isn’t always simple as your elementary birds and bees talk. Conception often doesn’t happen on the first try, or the second, or beyond. For many couples, this means becoming parents will take a concentrated effort and possible dietary, lifestyle, and method changes.

Some opt for conventional fertility medications, hormone therapies, and even things like in-vitro fertilization. Obviously, the urge to raise a child is strong, but by starting with a fertility diet including raspberries, you may be able to increase the likelihood that conception will happen without medical interference.