5 micronutrients help increase egg quality to give birth

Doctor Vu Thi Ngoc, Reproductive Support Center, Tam Anh General Hospital, said that around the age of 30, the quality of women’s eggs begins to decrease and is more obvious after age 35. At that time, the chance of natural conception decreases because the eggs produced may be suboptimal and of poor quality, increasing the risk of miscarriage or chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome…

Dr. Ngoc notes the following 5 types of micronutrients that women need to supplement if they want to improve egg quality and increase the likelihood of healthy conception.

Coenzyme Q10

This is an antioxidant that plays a role in protecting egg cells from DNA-related damage, providing more energy for cell division and development, improving egg quality, and reducing age-related oxidative stress and factors causing infertility.

Coenzyme Q10 is mainly found in meat, fish (such as salmon, sardines, mackerel), animal organs (liver, heart, kidney) and whole grains. Soybeans and soy products are also sources of this micronutrient. However, the amount of Coenzyme Q10 from food is often not enough to increase CoQ10 concentrations in the body, so many people supplement it in capsule or tablet form. Some people with comorbidities such as blood fat, coronary artery disease… have a diet that increases Coenzyme Q10 and need a doctor’s prescription.

DHEA

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone naturally produced by the adrenal glands and ovaries that helps the body produce essential reproductive hormones, including estrogen and testosterone. DHEA improves egg quality, increases pregnancy rates and reduces miscarriage rates.

Dr. Ngoc said the recommended time to use DHEA is 6-12 weeks before the in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle. DHEA dosage requires a doctor’s prescription and monitoring because using the wrong dose can cause menstrual disorders, acne or increased androgen. During supplementation, you should combine a diet rich in protein, antioxidants and good fats. Limit processed foods, fried foods, alcohol and excessive coffee. Get enough sleep, manage stress and maintain light exercise to support hormone balance and optimize the effects of DHEA.

Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate the body’s biological clock and sleep. Melatonin can increase egg quality by reducing oxidative stress in follicles, thereby increasing the number of mature eggs and fertilization potential. They also protect eggs from free radical damage and support ovarian function, especially in women who are older or have low ovarian reserve.

Omega-3

Omega-3 is a type of unsaturated fatty acid that is essential for the body, supporting hormonal balance, egg quality, embryo implantation, menstrual cycle regulation and sperm health. They reduce inflammation that affects the function of reproductive organs. Diets rich in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids may increase women’s fertility. Omega-3 deficiency and excessive omega-6 exposure are associated with a risk of miscarriage and premature birth.

According to Dr. Ngoc, women should supplement about 1,000-2,000 mg of omega-3 fatty acids in their daily diet. Omega-3s are found in salmon, kale, spinach, watercress, walnuts, canola oil, and many other foods.

Folic acid

Folic acid (vitamin B9) plays an important role in the development and maturation of egg cells. This is an essential micronutrient for DNA synthesis and cell division, helps eggs develop normally, reduces the risk of chromosomal abnormalities and supports stable ovulation. Folic acid also helps balance homocysteine ​​levels in the blood, thereby reducing oxidative stress and indirectly improving egg quality.

Women should take folic acid supplements regularly at a dose of 400-800 mg per day, starting at least 3 months before conception. Should be taken before breakfast or lunch for better absorption. Can be used alone or combined in pre-pregnancy multivitamin pills. Besides taking medication, you should maintain a diet rich in natural folic acid such as dark green vegetables, lentils, eggs, liver and citrus fruits to increase effectiveness.

Dr. Ngoc advises women to focus on a healthy lifestyle, eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and folic acid, and maintain a reasonable weight; Exercise in moderation, manage stress with meditation, yoga or relaxation activities. Women should have regular reproductive health checks to receive timely advice. In some cases, eggs can be frozen early to have the opportunity to become mothers in the future.