Infertility affects many women globally. Its common causes include impaired ovarian function, damage to the uterus or fallopian tubes, and cervix disorders. Age is also a significant factor contributing to the decline in female fertility. Some other causes of fertility-related problems include chronic stress, obesity or being underweight, eating disorders, thyroid disorders, and drug or alcohol abuse.

Medications to restore fertility, with or without surgical intervention, is the most common way to treat infertility. However, diet may also play a role in this scenario. For example, processed foods, red meat, and foods with a high glycemic index exacerbate fertility issues in women.

The good news is many foods are powerful fertility boosters for women. Here are a few you should include in your diet right away.

1. Eggs: Eggs are a rich source of vitamins A, D, E, and K, essential to increasing fertility levels. Omega 3 in egg yolk also helps boosts fertility. Similarly, choline may help reduce the risk of some birth defects related to the development of the baby's brain and spinal cord.

2. Salmon: Omega-3 fatty acids in salmon help regulate blood flow to the reproductive organs and increase the likelihood of conception.

3. Dairy Products: Several studies report that high-fat dairy is known to promote fertility in women, whereas low-fat dairy may cause anovulation. High-fat dairy also strengthens bones and teeth. On the flip side, too much consumption of high-fat dairy may cause obesity, which lowers the chances of conception. So, practice moderation when taking high-fat milk, cheese, yogurt, and shakes.

4. Beans and Lentils: High in protein and fiber, beans and lentils help improve ovulation. Replacing red and other processed meats with plant-based protein sources lowers the risk of ovarian dysfunction. In addition, lentils and beans are a plentiful source of folic acid, an essential nutrient that supports conception and healthy embryo development.

5. Fruits: Fruits high in Vitamin C are also an abundant source of antioxidants and folic acid. They contain anti-inflammatory phytonutrients, folate, calcium, and potassium, which help regulate ovulation, create an ideal environment for healthy eggs, and promote healthy fetal growth after conception. Blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, grapefruit, and oranges are a few fruits that boost fertility in women.

6. Leafy Greens: Dark leafy greens such as broccoli, spinach, collards, and kale are high in folate and help improve ovulation. The high amount of nutrients and minerals in leafy greens also naturally increase a woman's sex drive.

7. Quinoa: Quinoa is a popular whole grain preferred by weight-watchers. However, it is equally healthy for women trying to conceive. It has a low glycemic index and is a wholesome source of zinc, protein, folic acid, amino acids. While zinc promotes normal hormone function and cell division, other nutrients help prevent congenital disabilities.

8. Yams: Yam is one of the effective home remedies to boost female fertility. It contains phytoestrogens and progesterone-like properties that can help normalize ovulation.

9. Walnuts: Walnuts have omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin E, proteins, folic acid, and minerals. All these nutrients contribute to better hormonal health, ovulation, and endometrial health, thus increasing the chances of conception.

10. Seaweed: Seaweed is an abundant source of Vitamins B, D, E, and K, which help maintain hormonal health and improve fertility. It also contains iodine, which may help alleviate the symptoms of hypothyroidism, a common cause of infertility linked to endometriosis.

In addition to treatment for infertility, a change in diet may help expedite the journey to parenthood. Consult your doctor and discuss the best fertility-boosting foods suitable for you.