Vitamin D May Help You Get Pregnant

We all know that a healthy dose of sunshine can be good for your mood and maybe even your immune system, but it turns out catching some rays could help you conceive, too. For a review published in the European Journal of Endocrinology, researchers compiled results of various studies on the effects of vitamin D -- which is emitted by the sun and also found in our reproductive organs -- on fertility. They found that vitamin D may help boost certain sex hormones in women, and meant better success getting pregnant for women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) or dealing with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

In men, higher levels of vitamin D meant better semen quality and healthier testosterone levels. The researchers also added that in studies on mice, mice who didn’t have sufficient vitamin D has decreased sperm count and motility.

Sounds to us like an excellent excuse to take a pre-pregnancy tropical vacation. Just don't overdo it -- babymaking with a sunburn can't be (as) fun.

Plus, more from The Bump:

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-- Elena Donovan Mauer

See More: Fertility and Ovulation , Fertility Concerns