How to use Leeks for fertility, 5 Emerging Benefits & Side effect

Intake of leeks for fertility shall form the major subject of discussion. Are leeks good for fertility? Are there any fertility benefits of eating leeks? To answer these questions objectively, let’s consider the nutritional value of leeks.

Nutrients in leeks

What is so special about leeks that makes them very popular? Well, let’s find out by exploring the nutritional composition of this wonderful plant.

According to FoodData Central, 100 grams of cooked leeks contain the following compounds listed below.

• Iron
• Magnesium
• Phosphorus
• Potassium
• Zinc
• Manganese
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin B-6
• Folate
• Vitamin A and more.

How to use leeks for fertility

Although, there is no scientific evidence supporting the use of leeks for fertility. However, Leeks are a good source of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate which are important for overall health and may indirectly improve fertility.

In what way can I eat leeks to improve fertility? Leeks can be used to make a nutritious diet and here are some tips on how to prepare leeks for maximum nutrition when you have fertility in mind.

Preparation

1. Wash the leeks thoroughly: Leeks can be quite dirty, so it’s important to wash them thoroughly before cooking. Cut off the root end and the dark green leaves, then slice the leek in half lengthwise. Rinse the leek under running water, making sure to get in between the layers to remove any dirt or sand.

2. Use the whole leek: Don’t just use the white part of the leek – the green part is also edible and contains a lot of nutrients. You can use the green part in soups, stews, and other dishes.

3. Cook the leeks gently: Leeks are delicate and can become mushy if overcooked. To preserve their nutrients, cook them gently by steaming them until they are tender.

4. Pair leeks with other nutrient-rich foods: Leeks are great in soups and stews, where they can be paired with other nutrient-rich foods like beans, lentils, and leafy greens.

By following these tips, you can prepare leeks in a way that maximizes their nutritional value for your well-being.

Consumption

Leeks are edible plants that can be eaten raw. You equally poach, fry, roast, braise, boil, or pickle them as desired.

Storage

Your cooked leeks should not be stored for so long. At most, it should be stored for a maximum of 7 days.

Fertility benefits of leeks

Intake of leeks may indirectly support fertility by providing essential nutrients and antioxidants that help to protect reproductive cells from damage triggered by free radicals.

This can be achieved through a healthy diet that is composed of a variety of vegetables, including leeks which are nutritious vegetables that offer a range of health benefits. Here are some of the potential benefits of leeks for fertility ;

1. Supply fertility-boosting nutrients

Leeks are a good source of fertility-boosting vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, iron, and more, according to United States FoodData Central.

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Additionally, FoodData Central reveals that leeks have a high amount of different classes of Vitamin A such as provitamin A (carotenoids, beta carotene) which our body can easily convert into vitamin A.

A review also shows that vitamin A plays a major role in human reproduction, it also strengthens our immune system, improves our vision, and promotes cellular growth, communication, and development.

2. Intake may promote fetus development

Leek also contains vitamin B6, Iron, and Folate, although in small amounts but when combined with their supplement may improve fertility.

As you may know, fertility is incomplete without pregnancy, and it’s evidence that one is fertile, and fetus development occurs during pregnancy.

I mentioned earlier, vitamin B6 and Folate, are extremely important during pregnancy because they promote the development of a healthy baby, and prevent neural tube defects in the baby.

3. May help reduce PMS

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) are symptoms that some women may experience during or between their ovulation and period. The proven cause is still unclear and may sometimes be attributed to changes in hormones during the menstrual cycle.

From FDC, we get to know that leeks are a good source of Manganese, and a clinical trial shows that Manganese may help curb premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms.

Similarly, a review show that Manganese is also vital for a functional reproductive system, and strong immune defense. It may also help neutralize the harmful impact of reactive oxygen species ROS.

4. Fights inflammation

Leeks contain compounds that may help to reduce inflammation in the body, which is associated with a range of chronic diseases, including infertility.

According to a review, leeks and other plants such as onion, and garlic are a good source of polyphenols and other compounds that may help lower inflammation and improve health function.

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Another similar study confirms that kaempferol which is found in leeks has antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce the risk of heart disease.

5. Provides immune support

Leeks are a good source of vitamin C and other antioxidants compound which are important for the immune system to function and may help to reduce the risk of infections detrimental to fertility.

Antioxidants found in leeks support our body system in a great way. They protect our cells from the dangerous impact of free radicals which affects fertility as well.

Other Health Benefits of Leeks

6. May support heart health

Leeks contain compounds that may help to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.

7. May improve digestion

Leeks are a good source of fiber, which can help to promote regularity and support digestive health.

8. May have anticancer properties:

Some studies suggest that compounds found in leeks may have anticancer properties and may help to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.

In conclusion, incorporating leeks into a healthy and balanced diet can provide a range of health benefits.

Are leeks good for kidneys?

Intake of leek may support kidney health due to the presence of certain vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, B, C, E, and K, including Iron, Folate, Potassium, Phosphorus, and other antioxidants found in leeks.

Are leeks good liver?

Vitamins B, C and E are found in leeks which help to improve liver health. Hence, the intake of leeks is good for the liver.

What are the benefits of drinking leek soup?

Drinking leek soup offers a wide range of health, the water extract or soup may provide support for healthy heart health, lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and many more. There are claims that leek may help fight certain types of cancer.

Although eating leeks may not directly improve fertility, rather maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also support fertility. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice on how to optimize fertility.

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Side effects of leeks

Leeks are generally safe for everyone, but intake of a high amount of leeks may affect our red blood cells and can cause gastrointestinal tract irritation.

BOTTOM LINE

Although the is limited evidence supporting the use of leek for fertility. However, leeks are a great source of nutrient that improves our reproductive health.

Also, providing essential nutrients and antioxidants that help to improve our reproductive health, and protect our cells from damage of free radicals is among the benefit of eating leeks for fertility.

Intake of leeks is considered safe for everyone but, excessive may cause gastrointestinal tract irritation.