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Choose slow carbs

Eating carbs that are lower on the glycemic scale—whole grains rather than processed ones—also helps control insulin levels, says Brandy Webb, ND, a resident at Bastyr Center for Natural Health in Seattle and director of Sage Natural Health and Fertility in Tacoma, Washington.

“Overconsuming high-glycemic foods causes chronically elevated insulin levels,” she says.

The resulting insulin resistance can interfere with fertility by leading to excess androgens (DHEA and testosterone) in females, which can cause anovulation.

Choose from the American Diabetes Association’s list of the top ten low-glycemic, nutrient-rich foods: beans, dark leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, sweet potatoes, berries, tomatoes, omega-3-rich fatty fish, whole grains, nuts, and nonfat dairy. You also can lower a meal’s glycemic value by adding lean protein, monounsaturated fats, and fiber. So if you’re having pasta, for example, choose whole grain noodles and add nuts, chicken, or seafood.