Twins mostly come down to biology and luck. A family history of fraternal (non-identical) twins on the mother’s side can raise the odds, and twinning is a bit more common at ages 35–39 as hormone shifts sometimes release more than one egg. That said, multiple pregnancy risk rises with age, so close prenatal care matters.Lifestyle links exist but evidence is mixed. Some observational studies suggest higher twinning in people who eat more dairy/protein or have a slightly higher (but still healthy) BMI, yet these are associations—not guarantees—and overall nutrition should prioritize balanced, whole-food choices. Always aim for a healthy weight rather than “gaining to conceive.”
You’ll also hear about breastfeeding while TTC and folic acid. Breastfeeding can alter hormones, but data tying it to twinning are limited; folic acid is essential to prevent neural tube defects, not to make twins—stick to the dose your clinician recommends (usually 400–800 mcg daily) rather than “extra” in hopes of multiples.
By far the biggest boost comes from fertility treatments (ovulation-inducing meds, IUI, IVF), which can lead to more than one egg or embryo—but they also raise risks like preterm birth, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes. Bottom line: there’s no safe, guaranteed way to “choose” twins; focus on preconception health, see your doctor for personalized advice, and celebrate a healthy pregnancy—whether it’s one baby or two.