A natural antioxidant found in nuts, red meat and seafood could increase a woman’s chance of conceiving, according to new research.

Research suggests selenium, which is believed to play a crucial role in the early stages of conception, helps in the development of healthy ovarian follicles, where women’s eggs are produced.

Selenium, which is already important for many biological functions such as immune response, thyroid hormone production and acts as an antioxidant detoxing the body, has already been proven to strengthen men’s fertility chances. It is now proven to help in healthy reproduction in women.

The team of researchers leading the study found that high levels of selenium and proteins containing the antioxidant were found in large, healthy ovarian follicles, where eggs were produced.

Melanie Ceko, from the University of Adelaide, who carried out the research said:

“We suspect they play a critical role as an antioxidant during the late stages of follicle development, helping to lead to a healthy environment for the egg.”

So where can you get your hands on selenium? Why not try adding some of the following foods to your shopping basket to boost your fertility chances:

• Brazil nuts - the best source of selenium available
• Seeds
• Seafood - especially tuna, swordfish, halibut, mackerel, oysters, mussels, squid, lobster and clams
• Wholewheat bread
• Red meat
• Mushrooms
• Whole grains like rye