Infertility can occur in both male and females, as most cases are related to sperm mobility, egg health, sperm health and other reproductive related conditions, according to MayoClinic.com. Lifestyle changes, such as dietary habits, can affect chances of conceiving a child. Dietary habits affect female and male reproductive systems. Vitamins such as zinc, folate and vitamin C play important fertility roles for women and men.
Zinc
Zinc is a trace mineral required for protein synthesis, cell division and DNA synthesis. Zinc is an important vitamin for women doing pregnancy and plays a crucial role in reproductive growth, states the Office of Dietary Supplements. Women are at risk for zinc deficiencies during pregnancy because of the fetus increased needs. Women need daily amounts of 8mg to prevent vitamin deficiencies. Zinc food sources include pork, fortified breakfast cereals, oysters, cashews and beef.
Folate
The B vitamin folate plays an important role in maintaining and producing new cells. This nutrient is important during pregnancy and other periods of rapid growth. According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, women need approximately 400mcg of folate as part of a daily routine. Women pregnant or trying to conceive need folate to spina bifida, a common birth defect. Folate is also important for optimal sperm health. Males need at least 400mcg of folate a day. Folate food sources include beef, liver, broccoli, avocado, black-eyed peas, liver and fortified breakfast cereals.
Vitamin C
For fertility, vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant. During the luteal phase of the monthly cycle, vitamin C protects progesterone from oxidative damage, notes the American Pregnancy Association. Improved hormone levels improves fertility. Females need at least 75mg of vitamin C daily, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Insufficient amounts of vitamin C in males causes sperm to clump together, reports the American Dietetic Association. On average, men require 90mg of vitamin C daily to increase reproductive heath. Food sources of vitamin C include strawberries, citrus fruits, potatoes, tomatoes and green peppers.
