VITAMIN C FOR FERTILITY

Among its many roles, vitamin C is important in reproduction. As Health Media communications Nutrition Report notes, "Some studies have found that dietary treatment with ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) has improved sperm quality." For women, the vitamin is involved not only in ovum development but in pregnancy. "Large quantities of ascorbic acid are utilized during human conception and are necessary to maintain the integrity of fetal membranes," says the scientific newsletter. "A daily supplement of 500 mg Vitamin C, early in pregnancy, might reduce birth defects." Of course, women should check with their doctors about preconception and prenatal vitamins and should avoid overdosing. Another vitamin, folic acid, is already considered a preventive of certain developmental defects.