Causes of Infertility: Caffeine Intake

A high caffeine intake is among the numerous supposed causes of infertility. Caffeine, most often consumed in the form of coffee, is said to decrease fertility and chances of conception. The effects of caffeine on fertility affect women mostly, but may also affect men's sperm count.

Caffeine and Fertility

There is a debate on whether caffeine affects the fertility of women. Some studies have shown that coffee and caffeine products may influence fertility, while others have shown that there is no link between the consumption of coffee and fertility. Certain theories claim that high amounts of caffeine (the equivalent of 4 regular coffees or espressos per day) will reduce your chances of conceiving by 25%. Caffeine may also interfere with the body’s functions, especially the function to absorb nutrients. If the body doesn’t absorb zinc, this will affect fertility both in men and women. Caffeine can also affect the sperm count, provided your partner consumes 2 or more cups of coffee per day.

Other theories show no connection between the capacity to conceive and caffeine. There are also some opinions that say that not the caffeine, but the chemicals used in the making of coffee or caffeine products that may affect fertility. For this reason, getting organic coffee is more recommended. In any case, until more is known on caffeine and fertility, you should consider reducing your caffeine intake or eliminating coffee from your diet, while trying to get pregnant.

Caffeine Products

The products that contain caffeine include coffee, black teas, colas or chocolate. You should always read the labels of the foods that you consume to see if they contain caffeine. The amount of caffeine that may be consumed while trying to get pregnant shouldn’t exceed 300 mg (which is the equivalent of 2 or 3 cups of coffee, depending on the brew).

When to Stop Consuming Caffeine

If you would like to increase your chances of conceiving, you may stop consuming caffeine products, or at least reduce your caffeine intake, for 3 months before trying to get pregnant. This is due to the fact that an ovule requires approximately 3 months to mature. Studies have shown that by reducing your caffeine intake from 3 cups to 1 cup, the chances of becoming pregnant are much higher.

Additional Considerations

If you don’t want to eliminate coffee from your diet, opt for organic coffee and brew it yourself. The paper filters used in most coffee machines may also contain chemicals, so avoid using these. You may also dilute your coffee with milk or sour cream, which is a rich source of calcium that also facilitates conception. Coffee is often combined with smoking. You and your partner should avoid smoking while trying to get pregnant, as this can severely affect your capacity to conceive. Have a balanced diet that's rich in vegetables and fruits, and avoid foods that contain fats, preservatives and chemicals. You may also consider a few supplements and multivitamins, especially zinc, which can balance hormonal levels and increase fertility.

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