Fertility
Fertility is crucial for good health of our entire body; it isn’t just something we consider when trying to conceive. Without vibrant fertility, our immune and body systems become weak and cause havoc. Our menstrual cycle is our fifth vital sign and when our health is less than vibrant it shows in our cycles. Optimal fertility is gained and maintained by healthy nutrition, lifestyle, and mind body connection. Eating a variety of unprocessed whole, organic plant foods, better quality animal foods, increasing fiber and decreasing sugar will go a long way. Crowding out bad foods for better foods is a good way to start.
Here are some suggestions:
Eat organic – see EWG Dirty Dozen Shopper’s Guide and Clean Fifteen
The Mediterranean diet which includes organic fruits, vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, a moderate amount of cheese, wine, yogurt, nuts, fish, eggs, poultry, and some red meat.
Healthy fats are important, our bodies need them to make hormones. Fatty fish wild caught and supplementation with an Omega oil are suggested.
Gut health is key. A healthy microbiome will prevent a lot of imbalances. Ove 80% of our immune response is in our digestive system. Eat fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, yogurt and kefir will help to keep beneficial bacteria for overall health.
Antioxidants are found in colorful vegetables and fruits and herbs. Eat the rainbow every day, focusing on at least five servings of these daily for vibrant health of all body systems especially egg and sperm quality.
Support your liver with gentle daily detox of fiber-rich foods, dandelion root, ginger, and turmeric.
Daily bowel movement is assured with adequate fiber and liquids, but ground flax seeds can help, probiotics, pre-biotics like ginger and fermented foods eaten daily with meals.
Reduce exposure to environmental toxins like plastic water bottles and plastic wrapped groceries as well as BPA lined canned foods. Store foods in glass if possible. Eliminate synthetic perfumes, soaps, household, and personal care items that contain cancer-causing phthalates – see EWG Skin Deep Database.
Reduce stress & get plenty of sleep – adaptogen herbs like Ashwaganda and Eleuthero can help. Also maintain a regular sleep routine.
Resource: Herbal Academy Herbarium, Herbarium Intensive, A Holistic Approach to Fertility