Re: Do I need to change my diet while I’m TTC, or does it not really matter until I’m actually pregnant?
There are a few good reasons to fine-tune your eating habits now. First, a balanced diet is linked to increased fertility. The healthier you and DH are, the better your chances of conceiving. Plus, eating wisely now will get your body in prime condition to have a healthy pregnancy once you conceive.
So how do you start? Make sure to get several servings of fruits, veggies (especially leafy greens), whole grains and dairy every day. Cut back on refined sugar, white flour and saturated fat. You might also consider reducing your caffeine intake. Research on whether it affects fertility is mixed, but most docs say less the 300 mg (about three cups of coffee) a day is safe. A vitamin-mineral supplement is another good idea. Ask your doc for recommendations, because some contain things unsafe for baby (a prenatal vitamin is probably your best bet). Whatever you take, make sure it contains folic acid, calcium, iron, zinc, manganese, vitamin A, vitamin B6, and vitamin C.
Paula Kashtan | April 30 , 2009 2:19 PM