Pomegranate & fertility – can pomegranate really give us a boost?

Pomegranate for female fertility (& male factor too)

Pomegranate fertility link actually goes back hundreds of years. Traditionally in many cultures pomegranates are the symbol of fertility and abundance due to their many seeds and are often gifted as presents to newlyweds – but is there any truth to this tradition? Can pomegranate really boost fertility? And can it be considered a fertility superfood, like turmeric?

Leading up to her personal IVF treatment, TRB founder Eloise added a lot of pomegranate juice to her TTC (trying to conceive) fertility diet, so we’re keen to hear if it can help increase natural conception and IVF success rates.

So we’ve asked our partner Nutritional Therapist, Kirsten Oddy, for the 101.

kirstenoddy.com | @kirstenoddynutrition

Over to Kirsten

Pomegranate fertility benefits – it’s all in the antioxidants

Pomegranates are rich in antioxidants and it is these antioxidant properties which have been shown to benefit both male and female fertility.

In women, the antioxidant properties found in pomegranates could increase blood flow to the uterus and promote healthy uterine lining for implantation.

In men, these antioxidants could improve sperm health, concentration and motility.

As well as being antioxidant rich, pomegranates include some important vitamins, especially vitamin C and vitamin E, as well as folic acid – all of which are beneficial when trying to conceive and for a healthy pregnancy.

Should I eat pomegranate to boost fertility?

Unfortunately there is very little scientific evidence to substantiate these claims directly related to pomegranates. However, as we know pomegranates are rich in antioxidants and that antioxidants could be beneficial for fertility, this implies there could be some advantages of incorporating this fruit into your diet when you’re trying to conceive.

Antioxidants protect our cells from free radical damage which can not only be caused by our day-to-day bodily functions, but also from processed foods, excessive alcohol consumption, air pollution and cigarette smoke.

Taking a dual approach is key to minimise exposure to these toxins in your lifestyle and environment whilst also increasing antioxidants from foods such as pomegranates.

But pomegranates aren’t the only foods rich in antioxidants – antioxidants are also found in abundance in other foods such as:

• Brightly coloured vegetables

• Fruit and berries

• Wholegrains

• Green tea

• Dark chocolate

Rather than focusing on one single food to boost your fertility, ensure you’re eating a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrients and antioxidants whilst taking some targeted pre-natal supplements under the care of a fertility nutritionist.

The pomegranate extract fertility supplement to try

Pomanox® is a high-quality form of pomegranate extract, found in the skin of pomegranates. The key active ingredients – flavonoids, polyphenols, punicalagin and vitamin C – are known for their potent antioxidant properties.

Want to try it yourself? Ovosicare® Fertility is a food supplement formulated with innovative and natural origin ingredients which help support female fertility.

It is the only fertility supplement on the market that combines pomegranate extract as Pomanox with myo and d-chiro-inositol and 12 other key ingredients to ensure superior preconception support. 

Ovosicare® Fertility is exclusively available via LivBio, their official UK retailer.

Ways to eat pomegranate for fertility (and prioritise the yum)

There are many ways you can incorporate this fruit into your fertility diet whilst you’re trying to conceive – no matter your reason for eating them.

Though the white, pithy part is safe to eat, it’s bitter and most people choose to discard it – the seeds on the other hand are versatile, juicy and delicious.

Here are some simple ways you can enjoy pomegranate seeds:

• Toss them into your salad

• Sprinkle onto your porridge

• Add them to smoothies or juices

• Garnish your grilled or baked meats such as lamb tagine or chicken tray bake

• Mixed into couscous or tabbouleh

• Eat them fresh from the fruit

• Drink 100% pomegranate juice

Store bought pomegranate juice often contains added sugars – and over consumption of sugar sweetened beverages has been linked to lower fertility for both men and women.

In women with hormonal imbalances such as polycystic ovarian syndrome this added sugar will have even bigger consequences.

The bottom line

Whilst there may be no direct evidence pomegranates can boost your fertility, pomegranate extract is rich in antioxidants, which could support your body in the preconception period.

In a nutshell – if it brings you some reassurance to add pomegranates to your fertility diet, then, by all means, enjoy them in moderation.

Please note: Increasing your pomegranate consumption could interact with some statin drugs used for high blood pressure and cholesterol, as well as some blood thinners.

You should consult with your GP if you are taking any of these medications before incorporating pomegranate into your diet.

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