Almonds and fertility
Almonds are regarded as the most fertility nutrient packed of all nuts; they are high in important reproductive system nutrients including zinc and L-arginine. They are also the best whole food source of vitamin E (a powerful antioxidant). Vitamin E is thought to improve sperm quality and motility in men (a study showed that eating seven almonds a day improved sperm quality). It is also an important regulator of sex hormones in both men and women. In women, vitamin E may help regulate the production of cervical mucus, which is important for conception, due to its ability to support live sperm for several days. Almonds also help improve insulin resistance, which is important for women with PCOS, a condition where the body becomes less effective at lowering blood sugar levels. Insulin resistance can reduce fertility in women, especially when combined with abdominal weight gain.
Easy ways to include almonds into your daily diet:
* Chop up and sprinkle onto salads
* Spread almond butter on toast or use as a dip with apple wedges – make sure you buy organic, unsweetened almond butter.
* Almonds go well as a snack with celery
Chop, toast and enjoy on pasta
* Add to daily cereals and yoghurts
* Try substituting almond milk for some of your daily cow’s milk on cereals and in smoothies.
How much nut does it take to get pregnant?
