It is advisable to plan for pregnancy in advance. A few months before the expected conception, it is worth changing your lifestyle, reviewing your diet, preparing for changes, and undergoing a medical check-up at the clinic. Visits to doctors and proper nutrition are better organized together with the future father — after all, the health of the baby also depends on him! As for nutrition, studies show that certain foods, vitamins, and minerals can increase the chances of a long-awaited pregnancy. The question of how the diet of potential parents affects fertility has intrigued researchers from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health — Audrey Gaskins and Jorge Chavarro. Here are the patterns they identified. Supplements Folic Acid: Proven Taking folic acid (vitamin B9) during pregnancy reduces the risk of neural tube defects in the fetus. Additionally, it helps women improve fertility and decrease the likelihood of miscarriage. Antioxidants: Proven Vitamins A, C, and E are recommended for future fathers, as they do not affect female fertility. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Proven Studies show that these acids positively influence women's fertility. Omega-3 can be replenished through supplements or by including fatty sea fish in the diet. Vitamin D: Not Proven Great hopes were placed on the "sunshine vitamin," however, scientists found no evidence of its influence on fertility. Even if the level of vitamin D in the body is sufficient, it does not affect the success of conception. Diet Seafood: Proven Sea fish is an excellent source of Omega-3 unsaturated fatty acids, which increase the chances of successful conception. Before buying salmon, herring, or mackerel, make sure the fish is caught in unpolluted waters! Oysters are also beneficial as they are rich in zinc — an important element for the reproductive system. Whole Grains: Proven Whole grains, such as brown rice or unrefined oats, contain many B vitamins, including folic acid (B9) and vitamin B12. A deficiency of these substances may be associated with infertility. Vegetables: Proven Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, leafy greens, and especially spinach are valuable sources of folic acid. In Question Soy: Not Proven Women planning to become pregnant are often advised to avoid soy and products containing it. However, scientists have found no evidence supporting this recommendation. Dairy Products: Not Proven There is an opinion that potential parents should give up dairy products, but they do not affect fertility. On the contrary, future mothers are recommended to consume yogurt, kefir, or milk daily to create a "calcium reserve" for the baby, which will be needed in the last months of pregnancy. Coffee and Tea: Not Proven Studies have not confirmed that coffee and tea reduce the chances of successful conception. Nevertheless, it is important to remember moderation in their consumption.