When it comes to nourishing your body for optimal fertility, grocery store shelves become a treasure trove of possibilities. But, will consuming some specific food items truly enhance fertility and increase your chances of conceiving?

Chances are you will end up getting nowhere if you blindly follow every advice that is floating around the internet, as there is nothing that can magically boost your chances of getting pregnant. Dietitians cannot emphasize enough the significance of consuming nutritious, well-balanced meals that promote reproductive health in both men and women.

At the same time, excluding certain food items or relying solely on others cannot effectively enhance your reproductive health. There might be some underlying factors at play, such as the blockage of the fallopian tubes, which can hinder the sperm from reaching the egg.

Here are some food choices recommended by experts that you can incorporate into your diet to optimize your chances:

1. Sunflower seeds

Rich in vitamin E, sunflower seeds are the holy grail of fertility. The seeds are found to boost sperm count and sperm motility. In addition, sunflower seeds are packed with folate and selenium, which is the fundamental requirement for both male and female fertility. Sunflower seeds are also have high amounts of Omega-6 fatty acids, which effectively promote fertility.

2. Aged cheese

Mature cheese has a high nutritional index, as well as polyamines – proteins that are found in plant and animal products. These proteins also occur naturally in humans and is crucial for the proper functioning of the reproductive system. Mature cheese has been found to enhance sperm production and has potential benefits for improving egg health, particularly in women aged 35 and above.

3. Full-fat dairy

Full-fat dairy products, such as whole milk, cheese and yogurt, can be beneficial for fertility in those who can tolerate them. These products are rich in saturated fats, which play a vital role in hormone production and regulation, supporting reproductive function. Additionally, they provide essential fat-soluble vitamins like A, E, D and K, which contribute to hormonal balance and improve egg quality. Calcium and protein found in dairy products are also important during pregnancy, aiding in the development of strong bones in the growing baby.

A Harvard study found that women who consumed full-fat dairy products were less likely to experience ovulation problems compared to those who consumed primarily low-fat dairy products.

4. Pomegranate

Pomegranates are thought to have a positive impact on fertility because they're packed with antioxidants. These antioxidants can help improve blood flow to the uterus, creating a healthier environment for implantation in women. For men, these antioxidants may enhance sperm health by boosting concentration and motility. Pomegranates are also a great source of important vitamins like C, E and folic acid, which are known to support conception and healthy pregnancy.

5. Salmon

Salmon, especially wild-caught salmon, is a boon for whoever struggling with fertility. Being a low-mercury fish, it is abundant in essential fatty acids and omega-3s. Additionally, these nutrients are known to provide various benefits for reproductive health. The fish also contains high amounts of selenium and vitamin D. Selenium plays a crucial role in promoting the production of healthy sperm.