That's correct. The father's sperm, carrying either an X or a Y chromosome, determines the gender. An X sperm results in a girl, while a Y leads to a boy. However, various factors within the female reproductive system can impact which sperm successfully completes this task. It's believed that diet, particularly the minerals consumed, can influence this process. While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, dietary minerals might affect aspects like the oocyte wall's receptors, pH levels, or even hormonal interactions within the reproductive system. These nuances highlight the intricate interplay of factors involved in conception and gender determination, and the impact diet is likely to have.