Foods to Avoid When Trying to Get Pregnant

Eating well when you’re trying to conceive can support your general health and help prepare your body for pregnancy. However, there is no single food that guarantees or prevents pregnancy, and some commonly repeated claims about “fertility foods” are based on limited evidence. A balanced diet, a healthy weight and following established preconception advice are more important than avoiding individual foods.

Contents

• Refined carbohydrates
• Trans fats
• BPA and packaged foods
• Sugary drinks
• What to focus on instead

Refined Carbohydrates

You do not need to follow a low-carbohydrate diet when trying to conceive. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy, but choosing higher-fibre, wholegrain options where possible can form part of a healthy, balanced diet. Try swapping refined foods such as white bread and white rice for wholemeal bread, brown rice, oats and other wholegrains.

If you have PCOS or another condition that may affect fertility, speak to your GP or dietitian for individual dietary advice rather than making major changes to your carbohydrate intake.

Trans Fats

Trans fats are associated with poorer cardiovascular health and are best kept as low as possible as part of a healthy diet. In the UK, most people now eat relatively small amounts because manufacturers have reduced their use, but trans fats can still occur in some fried and processed foods.

Rather than focusing on one type of fat as a fertility treatment, aim for an overall balanced diet. Foods such as olive oil, nuts, seeds, avocado and oily fish can provide healthier unsaturated fats.

BPA and Packaged Foods

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical used in some food packaging and plastics. Research has investigated whether exposure to BPA and related chemicals may affect reproductive health, and some studies have found associations with reduced fertility. However, this does not mean that eating canned food causes infertility.

There is no need to avoid canned fruit and vegetables when trying to conceive. A varied diet can include fresh, frozen and canned produce. If you are concerned about BPA exposure, you can choose products labelled BPA-free and avoid heating food in plastic containers unless they are designed for that purpose.

Sugary Drinks

Sugary fizzy drinks are best consumed in moderation as part of a healthy diet. There is not enough evidence to say that an occasional soft drink directly reduces fertility, but regularly consuming large amounts of added sugar can make it harder to maintain a healthy weight and balanced diet.

Water is a good everyday choice. If you become pregnant, remember that caffeine from cola, coffee, tea, energy drinks and other sources should be limited to no more than 200mg a day.

What to Focus on Instead

Rather than worrying about individual foods, focus on a varied, balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables, wholegrain carbohydrates, protein foods and healthy sources of fat. If you’re trying to get pregnant, NHS guidance recommends taking 400 micrograms of folic acid every day, ideally starting three months before pregnancy and continuing through the first 12 weeks.

If you’re planning a pregnancy, it is also recommended that you do not drink alcohol. If you have a medical condition such as diabetes or PCOS, take regular medication or have concerns about your fertility, ask your GP for personalised preconception advice.

Diet is only one part of preconception health. Maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, staying physically active and seeking medical advice when needed can all help you prepare for pregnancy.

---

You May Also Like