Women’s Day: Five Foods to Enhance Reproductive Health

While we are still in the mood of celebrating International Women’s Day, it is not too late to talk about something beneficial to women health-wise.

So, in our lifestyle corner today, we will discuss foods that can help boost reproductive health for women.

These five items, which are frequently present in Nigerian meals, can improve women’s reproductive health.

1. Yams

Yams are a staple in Nigerian cuisine and are rich in fertility-boosting nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium. They also contain a natural hormone called diosgenin, which is believed to aid in balancing hormone levels and promoting ovulation.

2. Leafy Greens

Vegetables like spinach, ugu (fluted pumpkin leaves), and bitter leaf are packed with essential nutrients like folate, iron, and calcium. Folate is essential for women of childbearing age, as it helps prevent neural tube defects in newborns and supports healthy ovulation.

3. Beans and Legumes

A variety of beans and legumes, such as black-eyed peas (cowpeas), lentils, and pigeon peas (fio-fio), are excellent sources of plant-based protein, fibre, and iron, which are essential for maintaining reproductive health and hormone balance.

4. Fish

Fish is a popular protein source in Nigeria, with varieties like mackerel, tilapia, and catfish. My favourite is catfish, by the way. Fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to improve fertility by promoting healthy egg production, reducing inflammation, and regulating menstrual cycles.

5. Palm Oil

Palm oil is commonly used in Nigerian cooking and is rich in antioxidants like vitamin E and beta-carotene. These antioxidants help protect reproductive cells from oxidative damage and may support overall reproductive health.

However, palm oil has to be consumed in moderation due to its high calorie and saturated fat content.

As a woman, especially one looking to conceive, make sure you try to incorporate these nutritious foods into your balanced diet to help support your reproductive health and increase the chances of conception.

Do not forget that maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management is also crucial for optimising reproductive function.

Photo source:  Senivpetro

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