9 must-try supplements and natural remedies to boost fertility
Planning to start a family? Taking steps to support your fertility can make a big difference. While some women may need medical interventions, many find that incorporating vitamins, supplements, and natural remedies into their daily routine can significantly boost fertility.
Here’s your guide to the key vitamins, supplements, and lifestyle changes that can help you on your journey.
Key vitamins and supplements to boost fertility
Adding these essential vitamins and supplements can support reproductive health and improve your chances of conception:
1. Prenatal multivitamin
- Why it’s important: A good prenatal multivitamin is a convenient way to ensure you’re getting essential nutrients needed for fertility and early pregnancy. Most prenatal vitamins already contain folic acid, vitamin D, and iron—nutrients that are crucial for reproductive health and early development.
- How to get It: Choose a high-quality prenatal multivitamin that meets your daily needs. Many options are available on Amazon for easy ordering.
- Product recommendation: One A Day Pregnancy Planning Prenatal Multivitamin or One A Day Pre-Pregnancy Multivitamin Couple's Pack (To support pre pregnancy health as a couple)
2. Folic acid
- Why it’s important: Essential for neural tube development, folic acid also supports general reproductive health. Most prenatal vitamins include this, but if additional folate is recommended by your healthcare provider, it can be taken separately.
- How to get It: Take folic acid supplements or include folate-rich foods like fortified cereals, leafy greens, and citrus fruits.
- Product recommendation: Nature Made Folic Acid 400 mcg (665 mcg DFE)
3. Vitamin D
- Why it’s important: Vitamin D helps regulate hormones and plays a role in ovulation, making it crucial for fertility.
- How to get it: Spend a little time in the sun each day or supplement if needed. Vitamin D is also found in foods like fortified milk and fatty fish.
- Product recommendation: NatureWise Vitamin D3 4000iu (100 mcg)U
4. Iron
- Why it’s important: Iron supports ovulation and implantation, essential processes for conception. Most prenatal vitamins cover iron needs, but additional supplementation may be required if you have low iron levels.
- How to get it: Eat iron-rich foods such as lean meat, spinach, beans, and fortified cereals. If needed, consider an iron supplement, especially if you’ve been diagnosed with low iron.
- Product recommendation: Slow Fe 45mg iron supplement
5. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
- Why It’s Important: CoQ10 supports mitochondrial function, helping improve the quality of eggs and sperm.
- How to Get It: CoQ10 supplements are a popular choice, especially for women over 35, when egg quality naturally starts to decline.
- Product Recommendation: Doctor’s Best CoQ10 100 mg
6. Omega-3 fatty acids
- Why It’s Important: Omega-3s are known to improve egg quality, support hormone balance, and boost overall reproductive health.
- How to Get It: Include omega-3-rich foods like salmon, flaxseed, and chia seeds, or try an omega-3 supplement.
- Product Recommendation: Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega-D3 1280 mg
Natural remedies to enhance fertility
In addition to vitamins and supplements, natural remedies can be an effective way to support your fertility journey. Here are some tried-and-true methods:
1. Herbal supplements
- Red raspberry leaf: This herb is known to support uterine health and may help regulate menstrual cycles.
- Vitex (Chasteberry): Vitex has been used to regulate hormones and is believed to improve ovulation in women with hormonal imbalances.
- Important note: Always consult with your healthcare provider before using herbal supplements, especially if you’re taking medications or have underlying health conditions.
2. Acupuncture
- How it helps: Acupuncture can improve blood flow to reproductive organs, help regulate hormones, and reduce stress. Many women find that acupuncture is a valuable addition to their fertility routine.
3. Stress reduction techniques
- Why it’s important: High levels of stress hormones can interfere with fertility. Practicing yoga, meditation, or even simple deep-breathing exercises can reduce stress, promoting a balanced and positive mindset.
- Try it: Even just 10 minutes of mindfulness each day can have a significant impact on your mental and physical well-being, making it easier to stay calm and hopeful.
Final thoughts: Creating a healthy foundation for fertility
Combining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and the right supplements can make a powerful difference in your fertility journey. Remember, each woman’s fertility journey is unique, so take things one step at a time. Consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements or making major dietary changes, especially if you have health conditions that may affect fertility.
Take this time to nourish your body, reduce stress, and enjoy the process of preparing for this incredible journey. With some small changes, you can create the best possible foundation for a healthy pregnancy. Here’s to your journey toward motherhood—you’ve got this!