Infertility - Ayurvedic Diet & Lifestyle Tips That Can Help Deal With It!

The incidences of infertility in India has seen a mercurial rise in the last decade or two. Not able to conceive or go the family way can be quite depressing, triggering mental and emotional trauma. A lot of factors can trigger infertility in both men and women including stress or certain health conditions (PCOS or even obesity). In this article, we will discuss the Ayurvedic approach that can bring about a significant improvement in the case of infertility.

There are many instances where Ayurvedic treatments have helped women (battling infertility for years) to conceive successfully without any complications. Ayurveda, with a holistic approach, believes that physical disorder is not the only factor that affects fertility. The mental and emotional state of a person is equally important. There needs to be a harmony and balance between the three energies or doshas namely the Vata dosha (wind energy), Kapha dosha (water energy) and the Pitta dosha (fire energy). A disruption of the balance between the three doshas, or vitiation of one of the doshas which result in the build-up of internal toxicity is one of the underlying factors resulting in infertility.

In our body, there are seven Dhatus or tissues namely, Rasa Dhatu, Rakta Dhatu (blood), Mamsa Dhatu (muscle), Meda Dhatu (fat), Asthi Dhatu (bone), Majja Dhatu (bone marrow), Shukra Dhatu (the reproductive system which includes the sperm and ovum). An elevated level of Ama in the body or a poor diet along with unhealthy lifestyle practices can result in the improper nourishment of the Shukra Dhatu. Problems in the Shukra Dhatu is what often triggers the fertility issues (both men and women).

Thus, a body detox (to eliminate the Ama from the body) along with healthy lifestyle practices and modifications in the diet can produce positive results in couples dealing with infertility. However, one needs to have some patience as the Ayurvedic Treatment may take a few months to produce the desired results.

Ayurvedic Diet and lifestyle changes to treat Infertility

1. An organic, vegetarian, light diet oozing with the vital nutrients is highly beneficial.
2. Foods such as pineapples, mangoes, quinoa, can work wonders for the female reproductive system, especially the ovum.
3. For men, foods such as dates, almonds, asparagus can bring about significant improvement in their Shukra Dhatu.
4. The other healthy foods include
   • Fruits such as mangoes, pineapple, papaya, almonds (preferably soaked), apples (stewed)
   • Vegetables (preferably organic and fresh) such as dark green leafy vegetables, sweet potatoes, asparagus, squash, rice, quinoa, lentils
   • Dairy products such as milk, ghee, yogurt
5. Shatavari and Ashwagandha can work wonders to improve the male and female fertility
6. Foods such as garlic and onion (in excess), green chillies, caffeinated drinks, and beverages, spicy, stale or greasy foods, alcohol, can spell doom disrupting the dosha balance.
7. Exercise, meditation, and yoga plays a pivotal role to keep both the physical and the mental health relaxed and stress-free. Sleep (6-8 hours daily) is essential for a sound physical and mental health.
8. Make it a point to drink water throughout the day.

In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!