Diet and nutrition can contribute to a person’s chances of conceiving, and studies show that the omega-3 in fish oil pills can increase fertility in both men and women. Omega-3 supplements have been found to regulate hormone levels and create an ideal environment for a healthy pregnancy. Omega-3 fatty acids also have a positive effect on specific male and female infertility problems.
Omega-3 for female fertility
The first condition required for female fertility is a healthy and regular menstrual cycle with minimal cramping and PMS. If a woman’s menstrual cycle is too irregular, it will be difficult for her to predict her most fertile days and schedule intercourse around them. Women with irregular menstrual cycles may also experience anovulation, a condition in which the ovaries fail to release a mature egg. Women taking daily doses of omega-3 fatty acids have seen decreased menstrual cramps, fewer menstrual blood clots, and fewer PMS symptoms such as depression.
Aside from these benefits, research shows that omega-3 fatty acids can treat polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a form of infertility closely linked to high insulin levels. Simply lowering insulin levels will not treat PCOS; studies show that an imbalance in eicosanoids also triggers this condition. Clinical studies in women with PCOS show that taking long-chain EPA omega-3 supplements increased their chances of becoming pregnant and reduced the risk of miscarriage. They also had lower rates of preterm birth, which can cause a number of developmental problems in childhood.
Even if you don’t have PCOS, taking fish oil supplements is essential for prenatal care. 60% of the structure of the human brain is made up of omega-3 fatty acids, and the mother’s omega-3 stores are essential for the development of the baby’s brain. The baby’s need for long-chain DHA is greatest during the third trimester, as this is when neurons and nerve cells form at a prodigious rate. Without an adequate supply of omega-3 fatty acids, the baby’s brain cannot meet its need for DHA and may be at risk of learning disorders and other developmental problems.
Omega-3 for male fertility
Omega-3 essential fatty acids are essential for a healthy prostate gland and sperm production. The anti-inflammatory abilities of omega-3 fatty acids prevent a condition called prostatitis, or inflammation of the prostate. Daily doses of fish oil lower blood pressure and moderate the amount of blood that travels to the genitals and prostate. This reduces the risk of erectile dysfunction and promotes a healthy prostate. However, male fertility involves more than just healthy sperm production. For an egg to be fertilized, sperm must be strong, abundant, mobile, and healthy.
The omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA are part of the structure of all cell membranes in the body, including sperm. Research shows that men with low sperm viability and poor sperm motility have low levels of DHA in their sperm cells compared to fertile men. Low DHA levels in sperm are often related to unhealthy eating habits in infertile men. When the organism has more cholesterol than omega-3 fatty acids, cholesterol forms part of the structure of the sperm cell membrane, preventing its proper maturation. Immature sperm are not only unable to penetrate the egg, but also create free radicals that cause oxidation of healthier sperm. Fortunately, this situation can be reversed with the daily consumption of omega-3 supplements.
Omega-3 fatty acids are critical to building and sustaining life, and every fertility diet must make room for this important substance. Make fish oil supplements a part of your fertility and prenatal care plan.