Antioxidants are natural compounds found in many foods that help protect the body’s cells from oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals and the body’s natural defence systems. A varied diet rich in fruits, vegetables, berries, legumes, nuts and whole grains provides a natural source of antioxidants.

When planning a pregnancy, it is important to provide your body with the nutrients it needs to function normally. Antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene and selenium are involved in many of the body’s natural processes and help protect cells from oxidative stress.

Researchers have investigated whether antioxidants can influence fertility, but current evidence is not strong enough to recommend antioxidant supplements as a treatment for infertility in healthy individuals. However, there is strong scientific evidence that a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and other nutrient-dense foods is an important part of a healthy lifestyle.

For this reason, it is generally better to obtain antioxidants through food rather than supplements unless a healthcare professional recommends otherwise. Eating a colourful and varied diet provides a wide range of vitamins, minerals and plant compounds that work together to support good health.

Alma’s Tips

• Eat a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables every day.

• Include berries, legumes and whole grains as part of your diet.

• Enjoy a handful of unsalted nuts several times a week.

• Let food be your primary source of antioxidants.

• Eat a varied diet to ensure a broad intake of nutrients.

Important to Remember

Antioxidants are an important part of a healthy diet, but there is currently insufficient scientific evidence to show that antioxidant supplements improve fertility in healthy people. A balanced and varied diet remains the best way to obtain the antioxidants your body needs.