Cabbage, a Fertility Superfood

Cabbage is a leafy vegetable that has many health benefits. It is a biennial plant that dates back to the Middle Ages and is a major ingredient found in many different cuisines. This popular vegetable, usually smooth and green-leafed, is packed with dietary fiber, vitamin E, vitamin C, folic acid, and other nutrients that are great for increasing one’s chances of conceiving.

Important Nutrients in Cabbage That Help Boost Fertility Naturally

• Diindolylmethane (DIM) is an antioxidant that has anti-inflammatory properties. It plays a critical role in protecting the woman’s eggs and the man’s sperm from irregularities and deficiencies caused by internal and external factors. The anti-inflammatory component found in DIM helps keep the uterus and other reproductive parts of the body strong and healthy. DIM is very helpful for those suffering from chronic illnesses through which their fertility is adversely affected. DIM can help prevent problems such as fibroids and endometriosis.
• Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that is also a powerful antioxidant. The amount of vitamin E found in this leafy layered vegetable is significant. Vitamin E can help improve the overall health of eggs in the ovaries. This can greatly decrease the chances of miscarriages and birth defects. Vitamin E can improve the strength and amount of cervical mucus and help the traveling sperm stay alive for a longer period, thus increasing the chances of conception.
• Folic acid is derived from vitamin B-9. It is a very important nutrient that can help prevent birth malformations and miscarriages. There are some women who are unable to convert folic acid into a substantial and usable supply, which can cause infertility. Taking an ample amount of folic acid can help one get pregnant more quickly. If men take folic acid, it can help increase their sperm count and make conception more likely. It is important for a woman to take folic acid if she is looking to conceive or is already pregnant, as the nutrient can help protect the baby’s brain and spine from defects.
• Beta-Carotene is a reddish, orangish pigment that is found in many types of vegetables. It is an antioxidant that helps increase a man’s sperm count and motility. It helps protect the woman’s egg from harmful free radicals. Free radicals can cause abnormalities in the reproductive cells and cause damage to eggs and sperm, compromising their overall quality. Free radicals can make it harder for conception to occur, so getting a healthy dose of beta-carotene can help decrease the number of free radicals floating around.

Recipes to Increase Fertility

This fertility-enhancing superfood can be prepared in a variety of ways. It can be made into a stir-fry or into a soup. It can be made into a tantalizing pickled side dish or put into a salad. The possibilities are endless. Listed below are some recipes to try out.

A Side Dish to Boost Fertility

Try a caramelized onion and cabbage side dish. Cut up some onions and the vegetable into slivers and sauté them in a pan with some oil. Add salt and pepper to taste. This side dish goes great with meat, such as a slice of ham or a piece of steak, or you can simply eat it on its own.

A Soup for Conception Enhancement

Also consider making a comforting, warm soup/stew with this nutritious vegetable. Feel free to add other types of vegetables as well. Chop up the vegetables and simmer the mix in a hearty chicken broth. This soup would taste delicious with a side of crusty bread or with a side salad.

A Tasty Stir-Fry to Fight Off Infertility

Another flavorful dish to try is stir-fried strips of the green vegetable with shredded or shaved parmesan cheese. Cook the ingredients in a well-oiled and thoroughly heated pan and sauté the ingredients together. Add the concoction to a piece of egg and toast or pair it with the main course.