One of the most important factors in optimizing your reproductive chances naturally includes adding the right foods and drinks to both you and  your partner’s diet.

When it comes to food choices and enhancing fertility, always bear in mind the old adage you are what you eat. Make quality choices.

Women should take precautionary measures when deciding what foods to consume to ramp up conception chances. Just as important as what you should eat is what you should not eat while attempting to conceive.

Although fish offers wonderful healthful low-fat omega-3 fatty acid benefits and a host of other great nutrients and vitamins like vitamin B, iron and zinc to a woman’s diet, it must be carefully monitored.

Studies have shown that in pregnancies which include fish in the diet, there is a positive impact on the reduction of fetal heart issues. Studies have also shown that consumption of fish oil capsules during pregnancy actually makes it to the developing fetus’ brain offering positive healthful results.

However, the mercury level in some fish is recognized by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the National Resources Defense Council (NRDC) to name a few organizations, as too high and outweigh the omega-3 fatty acid benefits.

Spinach – Rich in antioxidants and full of folic acid and iron, leafy green vegetables are a vital ingredient to maintain a healthy reproductive system. Leafy green vegetables like spinach contain folic acid which is important for preventing birth defects and is a vital ingredient for producing viable eggs.

Orange & YellowVegetables- Orange and yellow vegetables contain an abundance of beta carotene, an antioxidant, which has been shown to maintain hormonal balance and ward off miscarriage. Try adding a glass of freshly made carrot juice mixed with apple to your diet each day in addition to your fresh vegetable portions with your regular meals.

Broccoli and Cabbage – Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage contain a phytonutrient called DIM that helps with estrogen metabolism. They are also known to prevent fibroids and endometriosis in women.

Carrots, Peas and SweetPotatoes- Containing beta-carotene, these veggies will help regulate a menstrual cycle, thus improving chances for conception.

Strawberries, Blueberries, Oranges, Papaya, Kiwi & Cantaloupe – Full of vitamin C and antioxidants, these fruits offer healthful reproductive benefits to women trying to conceive. The destruction of healthy cells by free radicals in the system may be significantly slowed down by increasing the amount of fruits and vegetables containing gluthione. Free radicals destroy cells in the body and lead to aging and potential disease.

Meat,chicken,fish,eggs,tofu and dairy products(Protein) – Amino acids in protein are vital for viable egg production and for making LH (luteinizing hormones) and FSH (follicle stimulating hormones) which are essential fertility hormones.

Scientific research also suggests women who get more of their protein from plants and less from animal sources have fewer overall ovulatory issues. Be certain to monitor mercury level intake from seafood as high levels can be toxic in a pregnancy.

Whole grains – Try to consume natural unrefined whole grain bread products. Unfortunately, the refining process removes more than 15 key nutrients from grains such as B vitamins and iron. Opt for making your own whole grain breads and pancakes. They will be chocked-full of fertility enhancing goodness.

Oysters – With an abundant amount of zinc, oysters are known fertility enhancer, however high mercury levels from seafood have been linked to miscarriage. Think moderation.

Tofu and soy – With careful use, tofu and soy are excellent sources of protein. Some studies suggest however, high levels of soy foods containing plant-derived estrogen called phytoestrogens may in fact decrease fertility. A study was conducted back in 2005 linking isoflavone Genistein with fertility issues. Think moderation.

FertiliTea – Try adding a cup of FertiliTea to your routine each day. Studies show that women who have issues with fertile quality cervical fluid may increase their chances of conception after consuming this all natural or- ganic herbal tea. Available on-line or at specialty markets, the one month supply runs about $20. The natural ingredients like chasteberry helps to normalize a woman’s cycle and encourages more fertile quality cervical fluid production.

Studies indicate the benefits of maintaining an optimum weight while trying to conceive is of the utmost importance. Women who are overweight reduce their chances of conception because the additional fat tissue may lead to the additional production of estrogen. Excess estrogen is known to cause a hor- monal imbalance that may affect ovulation.

It is important to find the right balance. Women who are under weight are also prone to ovulatory issues as well.

Remember, you and your partner are in training. This is the most important marathon of your life. The outcome will effect your family deeply, thus it is imperative you make the decision to optimize your health with optimal food choices.