Couples who are trying to start a baby should eat a diet rich in Brussels sprouts as it increases the chances of a successful conception.

According to Neema Savvides, a nutritional therapist at the Harley Street Fertility Clinic, around nine percent of all conceptions take place during Christmas period and while parties and festive tipples are majorly responsible, sprouts also play a key role as they contain a phytonutrient called di-indolylmethane that can help women absorb balanced levels of the hormone oestrogen.

"Believe it or not, this green micro cabbage is a baby making super food. Firstly, they are bursting with folic acid which is essential for boosting fertility in both men and women. This vitamin rich source also increases sperm levels and helps line the womb with the right nutrients raising sperm survival chances. Another benefit of this folic rich food is that it also helps to decrease the risk of miscarriages and birth defects", Savvides said.