Does fasting affect fertility?

I am 28 years old, vegetarian for 6 years. I'm getting married so I want to know if a vegetarian diet will affect my ability to have children?

Reply:

Most people on plant-based diets are deficient in nutrients such as vitamin D, iron, vitamin B12 and essential fatty acids, some amino acids that are found in animals. However, a vegetarian diet is considered quite healthy because it helps control weight, provides many beneficial nutrients, may aid in the fight against certain cancers and even help prolong life.

For women's fertility, a vegetarian diet is just as good as a meat-based diet if done properly and scientifically. A fortified vegetarian diet helps get enough of some important nutrients and can prevent weight problems, one of the causes of fertility and fertility problems.

It's important for vegans to plan to make sure their diet is in line with their pregnancy goals:

Incorporate protein sources : Protein is composed of amino acids, of which 20 are amino acids. However, 9 are considered essential and food sources that include all 9 are called "complete proteins". Most meat products are complete proteins, and very few vegetables, grains, nuts or legumes are complete proteins because they often have eight or less of the essential amino acids.

Quinoa, soy and whole grain breads are examples of complete protein for vegetarians. However, it should be noted that even these foods cannot provide enough essential amino acids. Therefore, it is important that you get protein from a variety of sources to ensure that your body is getting all 9 essential amino acids.

There is no research confirming that a vegetarian diet will affect reproductive function, but each person needs a nutritious diet to ensure health before conception. Photo: Freepik

Consider taking a supplement : Vitamin B12 is a nutrient that is very important for conception and pregnancy but is almost absent from any plant source. Some plant-based milks, soy products, and some grains are used to supplement B12. Many vegetarians, especially vegans, do not get enough B12 in their diets, so a B12 supplement should be considered. And if you're looking to take a supplement, you should talk to a nutritionist to make sure you're getting enough nutrients to help facilitate conception.

Eat lots of green vegetables : Green vegetables like spinach and kale are all excellent sources of many nutrients, including iron. Green leafy vegetables are a staple of any vegetarian diet. You also need to note, iron in green vegetables will be more difficult to absorb than iron from animals. Therefore, you need to eat more iron than usual, or consider taking a supplement.

Control your soy intake : Soy products contain compounds called isoflavones, which are structurally similar to estrogen in the body, but their effects on fertility are not fully understood. Most evidence indicates that soy is safe for vegans when used in moderation, but too much soy has the potential to disrupt normal hormone action and negatively impact your ability to function properly. reproductive.

Vegetarians also need to eat plenty of healthy fats like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Avocado and coconut oil are good sources of omega, while eggs are fortified with microfat. However, you should talk to an omega dietitian if you are a vegetarian or aren't sure if you're getting enough of this nutrient. You should also consider calcium and vitamin D supplements, as these are also more difficult to include in a vegetarian diet.

There has not been any research to confirm that vegetarianism will affect fertility. However, if the vegetarian diet is not correct, the body will lack many important nutrients, leading to depression, reducing the possibility of pregnancy.