There is not much research on the effect of micronutrients on the chances of conception, but some promising studies have identified their role in menstruation and ovulation, thyroid function, energy production, immune function and egg maturation. Researchers at Harvard Medical School in 2017 published a review of the impact of diet on fertility and found that folic acid, vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids were associated with positive results. Other studies have found that vitamin D, acetyl L-carnitine and coenzyme Q10 may also help.
1. Folic acid
Taking folic acid supplementation or multivitamins containing folic acid has been linked to better fetal quality, improved chances of pregnancy and reduced risk of infertility. Pre-conception folic acid has also been associated with improved success in fertility treatments and a reduced risk of neural tube defects in the baby. For women who plan to become pregnant or who may become pregnant the recommendation is 400 to 800 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid per day starting at least one month before.
2. Vitamin B12
Some studies have linked low levels of vitamin B12 to female infertility. One of the eight B vitamins, B12 helps your brain and nervous system function. Doctors report successful pregnancies in infertile women after B12 administration. Note that an antidiabetic drug, metformin, causes B12 deficiency, so in this case you need larger amounts. Also, you are very likely to miss this vitamin if you follow a strict vegetarian diet.
3. Vitamin D
Improves ovarian stimulation and sperm quality. However, if there is no vitamin D deficiency, the extra amount does not seem to help. A 2019 analysis found that women who were deficient in vitamin [25 (OH) D <20 ng / mL or 50 nmol / L] were less likely to ovulate and 40% less likely to have their baby born alive than women who were adequate. Vitamin D.
4. Acetyl L-carnitine
Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) is a form of the amino acid L-carnitine (LC), which is naturally present in the body and helps convert fat into energy. Both have important regulatory properties of the oxidative and metabolic status of the female reproductive system. ALC has a stronger antioxidant effect. Acetyl-L-carnitine supplements improve the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis and amenorrhea. Also, both ALC and LC can enhance sperm motility in men.
5. Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) helps produce energy in cells. Recent studies on the ability of this enzyme to cure infertility have been very positive. A study of 169 women found that CoQ10 may improve the ovarian response in women undergoing IVF. The pregnancy rate was 35% in women who received CoQ10 and 25% in those who did not.
6. Omega-3
Omega – 3 fats DHA fatty acids are found in high concentrations in sperm and are associated with improved sperm morphology and motility. Omega-3 fats can also be beneficial for female fertility. A study in female mice found that lifelong consumption of omega-3 fats prolongs their reproductive function [7].