Vitamins To Take For Fertility

Fertility is the ability to conceive a child. Couples might become concerned with their fertility if, after a year of trying, they still have difficulties becoming pregnant. It takes normal fertile couples about four to five months to conceive, according to the Fertility Facts website. Nutrition is an important factor to consider when it comes to fertility. A healthful diet with emphasis on specific vitamins can help improve male and female fertility.

Vitamin C

A water-soluble vitamin, vitamin C is essential for normal growth and development. Food sources include citrus fruits, strawberries, tomatoes, green peppers and broccoli. Men with inadequate vitamin C levels might have issues with sperm clumping together, according to the American Dietetic Association. A study published in 2006 in the "Journal of Medicinal Food" investigated the effects of vitamin C supplementation and semen quality in infertile men. The men were supplemented with 1,000 mg of vitamin C twice a day. At the end of the study, improvements were seen in sperm count, motility and quality.

Vitamin C is also important for female fertility. Moderate amounts of supplemental vitamin C increases progesterone levels in women during ovulation, according to the Bastyr Center for Natural Health. Low levels of progesterone have been linked to infertility, menstrual disorders and recurrent miscarriage.

Zinc

This is a mineral responsible for protein synthesis, immune system support, wound healing and cell division. Food sources of zinc include oysters, beef, chicken, crab, pork, cashews and chickpeas. Zinc deficiencies can cause infertility in men, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements, because it's necessary for sperm health. A study published in 2008 in "Medical Principles and Practice" investigated the mechanisms behind zinc and sperm health. The authors concluded the antioxidant properties of zinc prevent sperm oxidation, death and DNA fragmentation.

Zinc is an important nutrient for growth and development of the fetus during pregnancy, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. An article published in 2005 in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" discusses micronutrient needs from preconception through lactation. Very little information is available about preconception micronutrient needs, according to the authors. However, maternal zinc status is associated with fetal heart rate and fetal movements, both indicators of good fetal development. Preconception zinc intake in women is important for fetal health.

Folate

This is a B vitamin responsible for producing and maintaining new cells. It is especially important during periods of rapid growth such as pregnancy, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Food sources of folate include fortified breads and cereals, black-eyed peas, spinach, broccoli, avocado and orange juice. Folate is an important vitamin for female fertility. Women of childbearing age need 400 mcg of folate a day to prevent birth defects.

Folate, when combined with zinc, is also important for male fertility. A study published in 2002 in "Fertility and Sterility" investigated the the effects of folate and zinc supplementation on sperm quality in infertile men. Men who received both the folate and zinc supplements showed a 74 percent increase in sperm count.