by Noel Jensen, L.AC
What happens when your car runs out of gas? It stops working, right? It obviously needs fuel to function. The same is true of our bodies. We need fuel – good nutrition – in order to function and enjoy life. And not just the macro nutrients – carbs, fats, and protein – but the micro nutrients – vitamins and minerals – are essential to every organ and process in the body. They are the building blocks of life; without them our cells do not function properly.
Our reproductive capacity is dramatically affected by nutrition. Our bodies simply cannot enjoy sex and reproduction without the proper nutrition. Following is a list of some of the most essential fertility-supporting vitamins, minerals and nutrients:
Vitamin A is vital to many different parts of the reproductive cycle.
B-Vitamins in general are crucial in the transmission of nervous impulses and good circulation.
Vitamin B-6 is considered by many to be the most important of the B vitamins because of its role in hormone production.
Folic acid has been shown to increase sperm quality and number. It also decreases the incidence of neural-tube defects in a fetus.
Vitamin B12 improves fertility and helps the baby develop normally during pregnancy.
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant and has been shown to increase fertility when given to both men and women.
Vitamin C, another powerful antioxidant, is important for the synthesis of hormones.
Magnesium is important for the production of hormones and neurotransmitters.
Iodine is used throughout the body. Iodine deficiency may contribute to menstrual irregularities, decreased sex drive, miscarriage, failure to ovulate, and premature childbirth.
Selenium is imperative for healthy gamete production. It also offers protection from damaging free radicals during the process of cell division.
Zinc, the most widely studied nutrient in terms of fertility for both men and women, is an essential component of genetic material. In men, it is needed to make the outer layer and tail of the sperm.
Essential Fatty Acids have a profound effect on every system of the body, including the reproductive system, and are crucial for healthy hormone functioning.
Vitamin D influences virtually every cell in your body. It has been positively linked to health conditions ranging from cancer to heart disease and may significantly boost fertility in both men and women.
Noel Jensen is a licensed acupuncturist and a practitioner of Chinese Medicine. He practices at Nutrition Clinic located in Ballwin, MO. For more information please call 636-386-3333 or visit www.nutrition-clinic.com.