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Food to help ovulation: 10 Foods to Eat to Increase Fertility – Laurel Fertility Care

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10 Foods to Eat to Increase Fertility – Laurel Fertility Care

Can eating certain foods really boost your fertility? The answer is yes. It’s important to remember that there is no magic diet that will result in pregnancy, but food and lifestyle choices do have a significant impact on the reproductive health of both women and men. The foods you eat, along with other factors like lifestyle and stress levels, can boost fertility through their impact on your gut, blood flow, hormone levels and overall health.

Laurel Fertility Care offers a holistic approach that includes many natural adjustments like diet and lifestyle changes before moving on to advanced treatment. Here are 10 foods to incorporate into your diet to boost your fertility.

1. Beans and Lentils

Beans and lentils are high in fiber and protein, which can help improve ovulation. Studies have shown that replacing animal protein with vegetable sources of protein can reduce the risk of ovulatory infertility. Both of these legumes are also an excellent source of folic acid, a vital component that aids with conception and helps in healthy embryo development.

2. Sunflower Seeds

Eating sunflower seeds is an easy way to help maintain proper sperm levels without making any huge dietary changes. Roasted, unsalted sunflower seed kernels are rich in Vitamin E, an essential nutrient that increases sperm count and motility. Sunflower seeds also offer substantial amounts zinc, folic acid, and selenium— all of which are potent fertility nutrients with stellar benefits.

3. Fruit

Antioxidant-rich foods like fruit and berries are high in vitamin C and folic acid, which provides healthy fetal growth after conception. Raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries all contain natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatory phytonutrients, two components that greatly improve fertility for both men and women. This study showed that women with high fruit intakes had a significantly reduced chance of infertility.  

4. Avocados

Avocados are full of Vitamin K, potassium and folate that assists your body with so many things— vitamin absorption, blood pressure regulation and more! They are also comprised of monounsaturated fats (healthy fats) that offer tons of dietary fiber and folic acid, which we know are crucial during the early stages of pregnancy.

5. Quinoa

Quinoa is an amazing whole grain because it’s not only carb-free, but it’s also a perfect source for protein, zinc, and folic acid. Altogether, these components offer a robust prenatal protection plan, while maintaining healthy fetal growth once pregnancy takes place. Not to mention, quinoa gives you all of the essential amino acids that meat products offer without any potentially harmful additives.

6. Greek Yogurt and Cheeses

Fatty foods are great for boosting fertility. Greek yogurt and cheese contain calcium, probiotics, and vitamin D, all of which help improve ovulation. Also, you’ll receive an ample amount of protein from each food, reinforcing your odds of a successful pregnancy through more precise ovulation cycles.

7. Salmon

To pile on more of those healthy fats, salmon offers loads of protein and valuable omega-3s that improve fetal development throughout pregnancy. Men can also benefit from eating salmon for its high levels vitamin D and selenium, two components that raise semen levels and enhance its overall health. Keep in mind, it’s best to purchase wild-caught salmon to decrease the presence of mercury, which can be harmful to a pregnancy if too much is consumed. To be safe, limit your salmon intake to once or twice a week.

8. Asparagus

Asparagus is a powerhouse food with incredible benefits for those trying to get pregnant. Studies show that eating one cup of boiled asparagus will provide you with over 60% of your daily recommended value of folic acid, fulfill your daily vitamin K value, and strengthen your reproductive health with more than 20% of vitamins A, C, and B. It also contains substantial amounts of zinc and selenium, so men should also incorporate asparagus into their diet!

9. Walnuts

Walnuts are packed with omega-3s and omega-6s that help your body maintain healthy brain functions and regulate hormones. Research also shows that men who eat walnuts on a regular basis will experience improved semen health, resulting in a better motility, quantity and morphology.

10. Egg Yolks

Most people ditch the yolk of the egg to cut back on calories, but yolks contain vitamin B and essential omega-3s. Yolks also contain folic acid which helps the body create red blood cells and help to maintain embryo development after conception.

Takeaway

Making healthy choices and changes while on your fertility journey can help your stress levels and provide some control during a time when circumstances can often feel overwhelming.

While these 10 foods are recommended as a natural way to boost your fertility, we encourage each patient to practice balance in their diets! Extreme restrictions or punishing yourself for the the occasional indulgence in a bowl of ice cream or a slice of pizza is not beneficial to your mind or body while on this journey!

If you’ve got your pantry fully stocked, read our blog on 5 Things to Avoid When Trying to Conceive.

Check out this article by our friends at The Fertility Help Hub for a list of tips recommend by a nutritionist.

19 Best Fertility Foods When Trying To Get Pregnant

Some women choose to give up alcohol and other substances in order to help with conception, but did you know that there are certain foods that increase fertility? While the idea of “fertility foods” might feel a little foreign, the way you nourish your body matters when you’re trying to conceive. “Many women don’t realize that lifestyle, stress, and food can play a significant role in infertility,” says Jayne Williams, a certified integrative health and nutrition expert. “Eating a diet that ‘supports’ fertility includes whole foods, a healthy balance of lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber that can help boost your gut microbe, regulate hormones, and lower stress levels—all three are important to prep your body for pregnancy.”

When you’re eating for reproductive health, foods that can help lower stress hormones and increase blood flow to the uterus are the ticket, says Lindsey Becker, a fertility chef, certified health coach, and founder of Farm Cut. From salmon and walnuts, “which have been shown to reduce surges of stress hormones,” to beetroots, “which are rich in resveratrol and nitrates and are known to improve blood flow to the uterus to help with embryo implantation,” she says, here are 19 foods that increase fertility and your chances of getting pregnant.

1. Avocados

You probably already love your guac, amirite? Turns out, avocados are a great fertility food. “They are a fantastic source of vitamin E, which studies have shown can be beneficial in improving the lining of the uterus,” says Becker.

Williams agrees. “Avocados are one of my go-to favorites for healthy fat,” she says. “They also happen to be high in potassium, folate, and vitamin K, which helps your body to properly absorb other vitamins.”

One way to enjoy your avocado is to have avocado toast topped with pomegranate seeds for added antioxidants, Becker recommends. Another great treat is to simply add a quarter of an avocado to your daily smoothie—it makes it creamier and adds a certain richness that will make your smoothie taste more like a milkshake. (Almost.) Plus, don’t forget the guacamole, Williams says, which can be made simply with jalapeños, cilantro, and onion.

2. Sunflower seeds

Male fertility can get a boost from sunflower seeds, which are great for improving sperm motility and sperm count. It’s easy to get more in your diet—sprinkle sunflower seeds on salads or try a sunflower seed butter slathered on toast.

3. Dark leafy greens

We should all be having dark green vegetables daily, but they’re especially important when you’re trying to get pregnant. Kale, spinach, and Swiss chard contain essential prenatal nutrients like calcium, iron, and folate (which also helps protect against birth defects), not to mention tons of vital daily dietary fiber, says Williams.

“There are endless ways to include your greens into your fertility diet,” Williams says. “From eating them raw in salads, sautéed, blanched, and steamed.” Kale can also be roasted to make kale chips, while spinach can be added to smoothies since it has a very mild flavor. “Just a small handful will do,” she says.

4. Beets

Beets and their greens are an underestimated vegetable if I ever saw one. “Beetroots are known to improve blood flow to the uterus to help with embryo implantation,” explains Becker. “Eating a diet rich in beets during IVF treatment is especially helpful.” That’s why they should definitely be added to your fertility foods list, even if you’re not going through IVF.

Foods That Make You Fertile – Pregnancy Center

There’s no shortage of old wives’ tales (and Internet legends) touting the fertility benefits of certain foods — and the baby-busting potential of others. And if you’re thinking about starting a baby making campaign (or you’re already waging one), you’re probably wondering which are fertility fact…and which, fertility fiction. The truth is, you can get pregnant no matter what you eat — and no matter what you don’t eat. But there is some fascinating, if preliminary, research showing that your fertility may be what you eat — and that filling your belly with certain foods (and avoiding others) may just help you fill your belly with a baby faster. The scientific jury’s still debating the food-fertility connection (or is there one?), but in the meantime it’s definitely interesting food for thought. And speaking of food, take the following list with a grain of salt (and a prenatal vitamin — which is a proven preconception must). Fill up on those foods that have fertility promise (they’re all healthy anyway), and avoid as best you can foods researchers have speculated may decrease your chances of conceiving. Bottom line (and you don’t need a scientist to tell you this): eat a nutritious, balanced prepregnancy diet, and you’re likely fueling your fertility. Make a diet of junk food and fast food, and you’re probably not doing your fertility a favor.

Fertility-Friendly Foods

    • Dairy. It pays to bone up on dairy (milk, yogurt, and cheese) when you’re trying to conceive. Adding dairy to your preconception diet is good not only for bone health but also — potentially — for your reproductive health. So drink that milk, spoon up that yogurt, sip that smoothie, nibble on that cheese. Sticking to low-fat or fat-free dairy products makes sense most of the time, especially if you’re trying to lower your bottom line preconception (after all, extra weight can weigh on fertility). But there is some early research showing that women who have problems with ovulation may benefit from splurging on a serving a day of full-fat dairy. Before you dip too far into the Ben & Jerry’s, though, remember that overdoing the full-fat will defeat the purpose if it packs on the pounds.
    • Lean animal protein. Let’s talk (lean) turkey…and lean chicken and lean beef. All these protein sources are chock-full of iron — an important nutrient that helps beef up fertility. In fact, studies show that women who pump up their iron intake during the preconception period have a higher fertility rate than women who are iron-deficient. A couple caveats: Steer clear of high-fat cuts of meat (bring home the pork tenderloin, but not the bacon), and don’t overdo any kind of animal protein (stick to no more than 3 servings). That’s because research shows that too much protein (even lean protein) can decrease fertility. Consider swapping out one serving of animal protein for a serving of plant protein (think beans, tofu, or quinoa). If you’re a vegan, be sure your prenatal vitamin has iron in it, and ask your practitioner if you might need any extra supplementations.
    • Fatty fish. Salmon (choose wild if you can), sardines, herring, and other types of fatty fish are swimming in fertility-boosting benefits, thanks to the high levels of omega-3 fatty acids they boast. Loading up your diet with those fabulous fats allows for increased blood flow to reproductive organs and may help to regulate reproductive hormones. Not a fan of fish? Hook your omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed (you’ll find it in some breads), almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and enriched eggs (you’ll see them marketed as “omega” or “DHA” eggs).
    • Complex carbs. Never came across a carb you didn’t like (and what estrogen producer has)? It’s time to get a tad more discriminating. When you can, consume carbs of the complex kind (whole grains, beans, vegetables, and fruits) as opposed to the refined varieties (white bread, white rice, refined cereal, sugary treats of all types). That’s because there may be a link between your carb choices and your fertility. Here’s why: Digesting refined carbs causes an increase in blood sugar and insulin in the body — and increased insulin levels can disrupt reproductive hormones and mess with the menstrual cycle (not a good scenario when you’re trying to conceive). Complex carbs, on the other hand, take longer to digest and don’t cause spikes in insulin levels — they may also promote regular ovulation. Holy whole wheat, batmom!
    • Oysters. You’ve heard that oysters can heat things up between the sheets, but did you know they can also boost your fertility? The oyster — famous for being Nature’s answer to Viagra — is the food chain’s most concentrated source of zinc, a nutrient that’s crucial for conception. Zinc deficiency can disrupt the menstrual cycle and slow the production of good-quality eggs — neither of which is good for fertility. Not a fan of oysters in any form? Slurping those bivalves is not the only way to get your share of zinc. Find zinc in smaller amounts in other fertility-friendly foods, incuding beef, poultry, dairy, nuts, eggs, whole grains, and legumes.
    • Yams. If you’re hoping for a bun in your oven, think about cooking up some yams for dinner. Some researchers have suggested that this Thanksgiving staple may contain an ovulation-stimulating substance, offering as evidence the fact that wild yam eating populations have a higher rate of twins. Whether or not this theory pans out (after all, the yams we eat are raised, not wild), it’s worth tossing a few in the pan tonight anyway. After all, they’re super-rich in fertility-friendly vitamins (their deep color is a giveaway).
    • Berries. Thinking pink or blue? Think raspberries and blueberries. Packed with antioxidants, these members of the berry family protect your body from cell damage and cell aging — and this includes cells in your reproductive system (aka your eggs). Wondering whether you should be picking other berries, too (like strawberries and blackberries?) Definitely do. All berries are berry, berry good for your fertility…it’s just that raspberries and blueberries are the berry, berry best. Out of season? Buy them frozen.

Eat these foods to boost fertility

Maintaining a nutritious, well-balanced diet is one of the best ways to promote your fertility. And, if you’re TTC, it will also put you on the path of healthy eating if you do conceive.

Try these foods to eat to help with fertility

The best diet for you is one that’s made up of delicious and nutritious foods that you enjoy eating – but fertility and nutrition experts agree that these nine foods are real power players in terms of the nutrients they offer, so if you don’t have them on the menu regularly now, you may want to add them to the mix.

Eggs

Packed with protein, loaded with Vitamins B12 and E, and often enriched with good monounsaturated fat like DHA, eggs are frequently cited among the most effective foods for promoting your fertility. If you’re having trouble making an egg selection at the grocery store, look for those that contain DHA or other omega-3 fatty acids. Make sure you do not discard the yolk before cooking, as this is where you’ll find most of the fertility-boosting nutrients.

Avocado

Are you surprised that this trendy superfood is on the list? Don’t be – there’s hype for good reason. Loaded up with everything from folate to Vitamin K, avocado is sure to help keep you and your future baby healthy. Avocado can be enjoyed as a spread, an ingredient in a salad, or a number of other ways, so eat up!

Salmon

Overflowing with omega-3 fatty acids to help balance your reproductive system and keep you as healthy as possible, rich in protein, and nearly devoid of the dangerous levels of mercury found in many other fish, salmon is unanimously recognized as a fertility all-star. Salmon is a great alternative to red meat when you are trying to conceive, as red meat high in saturated fats may actually inhibit your ability to get pregnant.

Citrus fruits

Fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits possess a wealth of Vitamin C, which helps stabilize your ovulation and encourages the release of an egg, as well as folate, the naturally-occurring form of folic acid that is known to help women get pregnant and help babies develop healthily.

Broccoli

Not that you needed to be reminded that broccoli is good for you, but broccoli is good for you! Broccoli has among the highest calcium content of any vegetable, which is very important if TTC, as calcium helps regulate the alkalinity of the reproductive tract and usher sperm along. Broccoli is also bursting with folate, Vitamin C, and other vitamins and minerals to help keep your reproductive health as strong as possible.

Whole Milk and Dairy Products

Calcium is incredibly important to get enough of as you try to conceive, but not all calcium is created equal. The calcium found in skim and other lesser-fat milks does not absorb as effectively as does the calcium found in whole-fat dairy products. Whole milk also contains lots of protein and Vitamin B12.

Whole Grains

Often enriched with folic acid and high in dietary fiber and iron, whole grains provide you with a healthy supply of complex carbohydrates, which are an essential part of any fertility diet.

Spinach and Kale

Two distinguished carvings on the Mount Rushmore of leafy greens, spinach and kale are among the most beneficial fertility foods around, as both are high in folate, iron for healthy red bloods cells, calcium, and manganese. You’ll also find more than half of your daily Vitamin A requirement in just 1 cup of either.

Almonds

Loaded with the healthy monounsaturated fats that support the reproductive system, as well as Vitamin E and other vitamins and minerals, snacking on almonds is a great way to give your fertility a delicious boost!


Read more
Sources
  • Saldeen P, Saldeen T. “Women and omega-3 Fatty acids.” Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey. 59(10):722-30; quiz 745-6. Web. 10/4/2015.
  • “Nutrition During Pregnancy: FAQ001.” ACOG. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 4/15/2015. Web.
  • J.E. Chavarro, J.W. Rich-Edwards B. Rosner, W.C. Willett. “A prospective study of dairy foods intake and anovulatory infertility.” Human Reproduction. 22 (5): 1340-1347. Web. 2/28/2007.
  • Toledo E, Lopez-del Burgo C, Ruiz-Zambrana A, Donazar M, Navarro-Blasco I, Martínez-Gonzalez MA, de Irala J. “Dietary patterns and difficulty conceiving: a nested case-control study.” Fertility & Sterility. 96(5):1149-53. Web. 9/11/2011.

10 Fertility-Boosting Foods to Help You Get Pregnant

Trying to conceive? Add these good-for-you foods to your diet.

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Image: Thinkstock

Citrus Fruits

Not only are oranges, grapefruits and other citrus fruits one of the best sources for vitamin C, they’re also packed with potassium, calcium and folate—a B vitamin that can help you get pregnant by regulating ovulation and creating a healthy environment for eggs. You should aim for at least one serving of citrus fruit each day (try a medium-size grapefruit, a large orange, three clementines or one kiwi) in addition to another serving of fruits.

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Leafy Greens

Eating dark green veggies like spinach, kale and Swiss chard is one of the best ways to take in essential prenatal nutrients like calcium, iron (especially important when you’re menstruating) and folate, which also protects against birth defects in the brain and spine that can develop in the first few weeks of pregnancy. Since it can take a few weeks to even know you’re pregnant, it’s important to load up on plenty of folate while you’re TTC. Most women don’t get enough from their diet though, so the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends taking a daily vitamin with folic acid (the synthetic version of folate) to reach the suggested 400 mcg dose.

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Avocados

Another great way to get your daily dose of folate is through avocados. The green, skinned fruit contains vitamin K, which helps your body effectively absorb nutrients while maintaining hormonal balance. It’s also high in potassium, a key to regulating blood pressure. Okay, avocados aren’t exactly low-cal, but they’re mostly made up of monounsaturated fats (that’s the good kind), so one a day is fine. Typically it’s best to buy organic fruits and vegetables, but you can save a few bucks here since the thick skin makes it hard for pesticides to seep in, says nutritionist Kim Ross. A great way to eat it: Spread one-third of an avocado on multigrain toast and drizzle with olive oil, another known fertility booster. It contains a high concentrate of vitamin E, which is known to stabilize and protect cells from oxidative damage, a plus for women with PCOS or diabetes.

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Quinoa

You should aim for at least 50 percent of your daily grain intake to come from whole grains, and this gluten-free carb takes it a step further as a great source of protein, folate and zinc. Plus, it’s high in fiber, which can help with constipation, especially around your period. Swapping animal-based proteins for plant-based ones like quinoa helps increase your odds for conception, says nutrition expert Hillary Wright. Since the complex carbs help stabilize your blood sugar and regulate your cycle, it makes it easier to determine your peak fertile days.

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Greek Yogurt

You probably thought sticking to low-fat dairy is the healthier choice, but that’s not the case when you’re trying to boost your fertility. Luckily, it only takes one daily serving of full-fat dairy to improve fertility odds, so grab a container of Greek yogurt for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Not only does it contain more calcium than milk, but it’s packed full of probiotics and two to three times more protein than a cup of regular yogurt. It’s also a good source of vitamin D, which helps the follicles in your ovaries mature, and it strengthens bones and boosts immunity. Not a yogurt fan? Aim for 1,000 mg of calcium daily, whether it’s through a cup of full-fat milk, one ounce of cheese or another source of dairy. Just don’t take this as a cue to eat a bowl of ice cream every night (as tempting as it may be)—too much full-fat dairy will increase your saturated fat intake, and end up hurting your fertility.

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Salmon

Wild salmon is a great protein alternative to meat and poultry. The fatty fish is one of the best sources of omega-3 and DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid), which is really important for fetal brain and eye development. Overweight and obese women are particularly DHA-deficient, so it’s a good nutrient to load up on before getting pregnant. Just keep in mind, while salmon isn’t a fish with high mercury levels, there can still be trace amounts, so you should limit your intake to 12 ounces per week, Ross says.

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Walnuts

All nuts have their benefits, but they’re not all created equal. Walnuts are high in fiber and one of the only vegetarian foods that contain omega-3. Plus, they’re filled with magnesium, which helps produce progesterone and increase blood supply to the uterus, helping with fertility. Magnesium can also ease morning sickness symptoms that women typically face in the first trimester. Like most nuts they’re high in calories, so limit your daily intake to two tablespoons.

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Lentils and Beans

These plant-based proteins are high in fiber and B vitamin, and are also a good source of folate and iron. If you choose a canned variety, check that it’s free of BPA, a chemical that can negatively affect your estrogen levels. To get the full benefits, aim for at least two meals per week, Wright says.

Experts:
Kim Ross, Holistic Fertility Nutritionist, MS, RD, CDN
Hillary Wright, MEd, RD, LDN, Director of Nutritional Counseling at the Domar Center

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

The Fertility Diet – Foods to Eat (and Avoid) When Trying to Get Pregnant

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With famous sayings like “you are what you eat,” and “let food be thy medicine,”  it’s shouldn’t really come as a surprise that there are many foods that can increase fertility.  In fact,  Dr. Robert Kiltz, a reproductive endocrinologist, and fertility specialist here at CNY remarks that “our diet and other things we choose to consume is the single greatest factor we have control over that can radically increase the odds of conception and pregnancy.”

What’s more, is it doesn’t matter if you’re trying to get pregnant the old-fashioned way or are undergoing fertility treatments like artificial insemination (aka IUI) or IVF. Implementing a fertility-enhancing diet can increase sperm quality, egg quality, your chances of achieving pregnancy, reduce the risk of pregnancy complications, and optimize your overall preconception wellness. 

While this article will cover the basic principles of a fertility diet, foods to increase fertility, foods to avoid when trying to get pregnant, and also touch on supplements to help fill the inevitable nutrient gaps, it’s also important to remember that other lifestyle changes like introducing the correct type of exercise to your daily routine are easy and similarly important ways to improve your fertility naturally.  

It’s also important to note that sperm and eggs both take about 70-90 days to develop

. That means while you may see some improvements fairly quickly, you likely won’t see the full effect of your fertility diet for a full three months.

Let’s get started!

The Basics Principles of a Fertility Diet & Why a High Fat Low Carb Diet is the Best Diet for Improving Fertility

Simply put, a high fat low carbohydrate diet is the best diet for your fertility. While this may sound controversial, Dr. Kiltz and other fertility experts both here at CNY Fertility and elsewhere understand the importance of a high fat low carbohydrate diet for fertility. While eating a high fat diet goes agains most of what we were taught in school, most of that “science” has already been debunked as propaganda and marketing

. The truth is that fat provides key building blocks for every cell in our body

and is vital for fertility.

A high fat low carbohydrate diet helps improve fertility through two main avenues.

  • It reduce inflammation

    .

  • It helps balance hormones and is used in the synthesis of many influential reproductive hormones

    .  

Reducing Inflammation

But why is it that reducing inflammation a key component of a fertility diet? Inflammation causes a laundry list of problems in the body and according to several studies, wreaks havoc upon the reproductive system

. Similarly, Dr. Robert Kiltz notes that “inflammation is one of if not the leading causes of infertility.” 

Chronic inflammation can cause tissue damage and reduce blow flow and nutrient delivery impeding the body’s ability to function properly. This is one of the reasons why things like antibiotics, steriods, aspirin, heparin

, and other immune modulators like intralipids, IVIG, are often used in conjunction with fertility treatments.

While these drugs can help suppress and modulate the immune system, a properly constructed fertility diet can similarly yield the desired inflammation-reducing results. How so? A high-fat low-carb diet reduce inflammation via three primary methods:

Carbohydrates (AKA Sugar and Fiber) Causes Inflammation

While “sugar” has been a bad word for some time now, let’s remember that all plants are primarily made up of sugar. Even if it starts in a “complex carb,” it ultimately gets broken up into glucose, fructose, and other sugars. Not surprisingly, there is a huge host of studies that demonstrate that sugar is a leading cause of inflammation

.

One of these studies demonstrated that a relatively small 50g dose of sugar causes a spike of C-reactive protein (CRP) along with other inflammatory markers just 30 minutes later and remains elevated for some time

. Another study similarly showed that eating 50 grams of carbohydrates resulted in increased levels of inflammatory marker Nf-kB. 

What about fiber? The problem with fiber is heat. Heat generated by constant fermentation in your gut (have you ever looked outside at compost pile in the winter? It’s steaming right?). Your gut that sits directly on top of your reproductive organs. Your reproductive organs that designed to function at a very specific body temperature and damaged greatly by heat

While many individual studies and large meta-analyses

of multiple studies have implicated carbohydrate consumption with inflammation, there is indeed good news. The effects are reversible as demonstrated by a 2014 study

which showed that reducing carb intake resulted in lower inflammatory markers in their body.

These findings all support the theory that carbohydrate consumption can cause inflammation; given what we know about inflammation, it only makes sense to limit carbohydrate intake.

Many Plants Contain Toxic Inflammatory Chemicals

One of the most obvious but seemingly overlooked facts is that plants are living creatures that do not want to die. Because they can not move, plants product toxins to protect themselves from fungi, insects, and animal predators alike. Of the thousands of plants that have been tested, a vast majority including domesticated plants we routinely eat contain their own unique set of toxins, sometimes numbering in the few dozen. When plants are damaged, via predation or harvest, some plants greatly increase their natural pesticide levels and may at times reach acute toxicity levels to humans

.

It’s estimated that the average American eats about 1.5 g of naturally occurring plant toxins per day

.We all seem to think that synthetic pesticides that are sprayed on plants are a big deal, but the level of natural pesticides consumed is 10,000 times the amount of synthetic pesticides (and remember, just because it’s natural doesn’t make it better – cyanide is indeed natural)

.

How dangerous are these natural pesticides? Well because humans eat such a wide range of food and are difficult to control in day to day activity, animal studies are often best, particularly when looking at the potentially toxic effects of plants. For example, feeding alfalfa sprouts (which contains a toxin called canavanine) to monkeys causes a lupus-like syndrome ( an immunological inflammatory disorder)

. On a similar, but more morbid note, the mortality rate of grazing cattle is estimated to be around .5-.7% due to toxic exposure of ingested plants

.

While you may think that we are talking about obscure tropical fruits and vegetables, you may be surprised by the number of common grocery items that contain these natural pesticides.

Fats Protect Your Body From Inflammation

Fat is one of the most important biomolecules for reducing inflammation. Studies show that fatty acid intake reduces key markers for inflammation including C-Reactive Proteins levels

, reduce inflammatory responses,

, help protect against inflammation and autoimmune disease

, and otherwise show that fats are critical for limiting and preventing inflammation

.

Hormones

Eating a high fat low carbohydrate diet helps improve and regulate your reproductive hormones. How exactly it balances and regulates reproductive hormones can generally fall into two categories: providing your body with the building blocks of hormones (aka cholesterol), reducing the intake of foods that mimic reproductive hormones, and reducing the effects of metabolic syndrome by lowering blood glucose levels.

Hormone Synthesis

If you remember back to your high school or college science class you may indeed remember a thing or two about hormone synthesis. If you don’t that’s a-okay too. Long story short, several of the most important reproductive hormones including Estrogen, Progesterone, and Testosterone all derive from cholesterol

. That’s not all Cholesterol does for fertility, it is also a critical component of Vitamin D synthesis from sunlight, which is similarly shown to play a vital role in fertility

.

What’s more, cholesterol is vital for brain function

. Given your brain takes a front seat to your fertility, cholesterol deficits may result in it being shunted to take care of brain needs at the sacrifice of fertility hormones.

Hormone Disturbances Via Phytomimicry of Reproductive Hormones

While the link between soy and decreased fertility in both men and women has long been firmly established due to its estrogenic activity (it contains phytoestrogen chemicals that mimic estrogen and interfere with normal hormonal signaling)

, there are over 300 plants with estrogenic activity. Flaxseed, sesame seeds, berries, oats, wheat, barley, dried beans, lentils, rice, alfalfa, rye, apples, carrots, garlic, and more are all culprits of containing phytoestrogen

Why exactly do plants make these hormones? Well, it is hypothesized that plans make them for the exact reason of decreasing fertility

. Phytoestrogens are known to cause infertility in humans and other animals and do not play any other known role in plant biology. As mentioned before, we often forget that plants too are living creatures that do not wish to die and this is one way in which plants lower populations of animals that like to eat them in the immediate area.

Hormone Regulation via Blood Sugar and Insulin Levels

PCOS is a hormonal disorder in females that affects 1 in 10 women. It is largely characterized by having high male hormone levels (hyperandrogenism), infrequent ovulation and is the leading cause of infertility.  While getting pregnant with PCOS can be a challenge, it’s very possible and adapting a fertility diet high in fat and low in carbohydrates is one of the best ways to improve those odds. 

While exact cause of PCOS is still unknown,

PCOS is highly correlated with carrying excess weight, type 2 diabetes, previous gestational diabetes, and cholesterol problems – problems that are all linked to high insulin levels.

It turns out that it is this hyperinsulinemia that causes the ovaries to make testosterone and other hormonal imbalances that cause the infrequent ovulation and other PCOS symptoms.

Because insulin is released after eating a high carbohydrate meal, eating a low carb diet is one of the most effective treatments in lowering insulin levels and has been shown to have a favorable impact on metabolic syndromes like PCOS

.

While the experts have understood this for some time now, research is beginning to catch up. One recent study showed that every PCOS patient enrolled in a High Fat Low Carbohydrate fertility diet resumed regular menstruation and ovulation and half got pregnant naturally without the need of any medical intervention like ovulation induction, IUI, or IVF

.

Foods to Increase Fertility

Ready to bust out your note pad and write down all these food that make it to the top of the fertile food list for their ability to increase your fertility and help you get pregnant?

Liver & Steak

While the sounds of a nice steak dinner is usually at the top of the list, the sound of eating liver probably isn’t. But if you’re serious about a fertility focused diet and eating foods to increase fertility, these two powerhouses should be on it. These two foods are a great source of protein and fat, AND it just so happens to be the best source of vitamins (much more so than any superfood like blueberries or kale).  As you can see on the chart below, beef and liver place in the top two if not the first two spots on a large list of critical nutrients when compared to a few common “superfoods.”

Liver is a premium source of vitamin C,E,D, Co-Q10, Zinc, Folate, and fat – all of which have been shown to play a crucial role in male and female fertility

.  Given the incredible amount of nutrients liver packs, it along with beef with similarly contains a lot of nutrients are two of the best foods to eat when trying to get pregnant.

Eggs

Eggs are another fertility superfood and at the top of the list of foods to eat when trying to get pregnant. Eggs are known as some of the most effective food for improving fertility because they are packed with protein, Vitamins B12 (aka Folic Acid), E, Zinc, and fat.  Protein and vitamin E help the motility of sperm.  Vitamin E is also known to affect overall sperm quality positively.  Fertility specialists recommend ensuring appropriate vitamin E levels to support general male fertility and to help men with an unexplained reduction in semen quality.  Most of the fertility-boosting nutrients in eggs are found in the yolk.

Eggs are a rich source of Choline.  The body needs to obtain a majority of its required choline from diet, as it can only naturally produce a limited amount.  Choline is known to reduce the risk of some birth defects.  Doctors and fertility specialists recommend ensuring appropriate choline levels before and throughout pregnancy to help with proper fetal development.  

Salmon, Sardines, and other High Omega-3 Fish

Salmon is an oily fish that is packed with protein, omega 3s, and essential fatty acids known to benefit both male and female fertility and are great foods to eat when trying to get pregnant

.  Omega 3s are vital for human cell production, and they help balance the reproductive system.  Omega 3s help with sperm production in males and maintaining oocyte quality in females.  

Salmon contains high levels of vitamin D, which plays an important role in male and female general and reproductive health

.  Achieving appropriate vitamin D levels can be very difficult, especially during the winter months when there is less sun.  In fact, Vitamin D deficiency affects about 40% of Americans.  Men’s and women’s fertility is both negatively impacted by vitamin D deficiency.

Salmon is rich in iodine, as is other seafood.  Those with iodine deficiencies have been shown to have a 46% lower chance of getting pregnant each month

Pork Belly

Pork belly is packed with fat-soluble vitamins and minerals.  It is known as better bacon because they taste similar, but pork belly has more healthy fats and meat.  Pork belly is about 30% fat, and a single oz contains 15 g of fat.  This fat is loaded with B vitamins known to impact fertility directly.

Pork contains selenium, which is important for normal reproduction in both men and women

.  Selenium is an antioxidant that supports healthy follicles in the ovaries, which develop and release eggs.  (More info on the follicles and their role in fertility here!) Research has shown that low selenium levels can be a factor in miscarriages.  In men, selenium has been shown to improve sperm motility.  

Butter

Butter is a key ingredient to Dr. Kiltz’s Keto diet, also known as the B.E.E.B.I (Bacon, Eggs, Butter, Beef, Ice Cream – pronounced baby) diet.  High-fat butter contains high levels of cholesterol.  Cholesterol is needed to make many critical fertility hormones and to fight inflammation.  The liver produces 75% of the cholesterol that the body needs; the remaining 25% must be achieved through diet.  Cholesterol is a major component of breast milk and is essential for baby’s growth and development.  

Butter is full of other beneficial nutrients as well.  High-fat dairy products, like butter, have been linked to a reduced risk of diabetes, obesity, and heart issues.  

Other Full-Fat Dairy

Natural fats from butter, cream, whole milk, and full-fat yogurt are needed to keep the lymphatic system running.  Eating fat lubricates the lymphatics and filters out harmful pathogens to protect the body from illness-causing invaders.  The lymphatic system is critical to maintaining optimal health.  It is part of the circulatory system and the immune system.  Besides being a rich source of cholesterol, full-fat dairy also contains many nutrients. 

Full-fat dairy contains protein and other nutrients known to support fertility like zinc, choline, selenium, vitamin A and vitamin D.  Vitamin A is essential for reproduction in both males and females.  In females, vitamin A supports egg quality, ovarian response, embryonic development, and placental function.  In men, vitamin A is required for maintenance of the genital tract.  Vitamin A is known to support immune health in men and women.  

Full-fat dairy also contains lots of calcium.  In addition to supporting bone, heart, muscle, and nerve health, calcium is involved in sperm production in men. It is important to ensure you are eating full-fat products as the calcium found in skim and other lesser-fat products does not absorb as effectively. 

Mature Cheese

Aged cheddar, parmesan, and manchego are all examples of mature cheeses.  In addition to being high in calcium and fat, mature cheeses are known to be high in specific proteins known to affect fertility, polyamines.  Polyamines are proteins found naturally in plant and animal products.  Polyamines play an important role in the reproductive system.  Mature cheese is high in the polyamine putrescine, which plays a role in sperm health. Putrescine is also believed to improve egg health, especially in women 35 and older.

Honorable Mentions

Asparagus 

Asparagus is loaded with folate.  As discussed, folate can help improve male and female fertility and impact fetal development.  Fertility specialists recommend that women ensure appropriate levels of folate through diet and supplementation to prevent neural birth defects.  Folate has also been shown to increase implantation rates in women undergoing IVF treatment.  Men need folate to ensure sperm DNA replicates accurately without mutations.  Errors in DNA replication can lead to genetically abnormal sperm, which is known to cause male infertility.  

Pomegranates

Pomegranates are rich in antioxidants that are rumored to assist with fertility.  Pomegranates contain vitamin C, folate, and potassium, which are all known to impact male fertility.  Pomegranates can improve sperm concentration and motility in men.  In women, pomegranates increase blood flow to the uterus, supporting uterine health.  

Walnuts

Walnuts contain high amounts of protein, fat, and magnesium.  Walnuts are about 15% protein and 65% fat.  A single serving of walnuts provides 163% of your daily recommended amount of magnesium.  Magnesium is an essential mineral for overall health and fertility.  Magnesium helps to convert the food we eat into energy for our cells.  It also helps the body detoxify and eliminates foreign invaders in the liver that could negatively impact fertility.  

Berries

Berries are a healthy, sweet, and sometimes sour, tasty snack.  They are loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory phytonutrients that are known to combat inflammation and to help both male and female fertility.  Berries are also high in folate and vitamin C.  

Beans and Lentils

Beans and lentils are packed with the following nutrients known to impact both male and female fertility positively:

Citrus Fruit

Citrus fruits are packed with:

  • Vitamin C
  • Folate
  • Potassium
  • Calcium
Sunflower Seeds:

Sunflower seeds contain the following vitamins and nutrients known to impact fertility positively:

  • Vitamin E
  • Zinc
  • Folic acid
  • Selenium

Foods to Avoid When Trying to Get Pregnant

When discussing the scientific basis for eating fertility diet focused on high fat low carbohydrate intake we certainly mentioned lots of substances or foods to avoid when trying to get pregnant, but it’s an important enough topic that it deserves its own section. While so much of what we try to do in life is focused on what we should add or do to improve things, the truth is that it’s often what we choose to eliminate that has the greatest impact. Here we will cover categories, nutrients, and foods to avoid when trying to get pregnant.

Sugar and Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates have been associated with the increase we are witnessing in obesity and other chronic conditions.  In addition to causing inflammation, large amounts of carbs can also affect reproductive hormone levels.  Sugars and carbohydrates play a direct role in determining blood sugar and insulin levels.  If insulin or blood sugar levels get too high, reproductive hormone levels can be thrown off, which can cause anovulation and directly affect female fertility.  Any food high in sugar (aka carbohydrates) can easily join the list of foods to avoid when trying to get pregnant. Foods that are high in sugar and carbs include fruits, bread, rice, potatoes, and sugary sweets like candy.

Soy and other Phytoestrogen Rich Foods

As previously discussed, phytoestrogens can damage male and female fertility.  Any food, like soy products that contain high levels of phytoestrogens, is a prime candidate to join the list of foods to avoid when trying to get pregnant. 

Women’s ovarian function can be affected by high levels of soy.  Eating excess soy can lead to lower circulating levels of hormones, especially lowered gonadotropin levels.  High soy levels have their greatest effect on premenopausal women during their reproductive years.  Eating a diet containing lower levels of soy should not pose a threat to the function of the ovary.  Foods that are high in soy include edamame, imitation meats, and soy products like soy milk.  

High Fiber

As mentioned earlier, fiber lead to excess heat in and around the reproductive organs leaving high fiber foods near the top of foods to avoid when trying to get pregnant.  While people are often told to eat lots of fiber, it’s actually not necessary for proper bowel function and research

is starting to show too much fiber to have a negative impact on fertility.  High fiber diets are associated with a decrease in the concentration of hormones associated with fertility and a higher probability of anovulation in women.  

Alcohol

While you could argue alcohol isn’t really a food, you also could argue it is. Either way, we’re putting it on our list of foods to avoid when trying to get pregnant.

We are well aware of the potentially devastating consequences of drinking alcohol during pregnancy, but research has shown that alcohol affects both male and female fertility.  Excessive alcohol consumption has been shown to cause an increased risk of ovulation disorders in women.  In men, heavy drinking can affect sperm health.  Alcohol consumption can cause a shrinking of the testes, changes to the shape, size, and movement of sperm and lower testosterone levels.  Because of this, alcohol should be avoided by both parties when trying to get pregnant.

Filling the Nutrient Gap of Your Fertility Diet with Supplements

It can be extremely difficult to ensure your body is getting all of the vitamins and minerals that are essential to reproduction through diet alone.  Fertility supplements like those found at Molecular Fertility are comprised of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other nutrients known to impact fertility.  They are great for supporting a healthy diet and helping to improve fertility outcomes. 

The Bottom Line about Fertility Diets

Whether you jump all into our recommended fertility diet or simply use this page as a guide to understanding more about what you’re eating, we hope it helps your fertility journey.  Food is indeed a  controversial topic, but our experience and research alike have shown that there are both many foods that increase fertility and many foods to avoid when trying to get pregnant and believe your effort to be more than worth it!

 

Article Sources

Foods That Can Affect Fertility

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Infertility affects about 9% of married women who are of childbearing age, according to a national survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While couples can’t control all of the causes of infertility, they can control their eating habits. And, nutrition and a healthy body weight for both partners can have a significant impact on the ability to conceive.

Women and Fertility

To prepare for pregnancy and enhance fertility, maintain a healthy weight and choose foods that will create a safe and supportive home for your baby’s nine-month stay. This should include sources of folic acid, iron, and other important nutrients.

Men and Fertility

Men also should try to maintain a healthy body weight and follow a balanced eating pattern, since male obesity may alter hormone levels. Plus, low sperm count and poor sperm motility are common in men with overweight and obesity. When it comes to food choices, load up on fruits and vegetables, which contain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that may help create strong sperm.

Find Your Healthy Weight

Increase your chance of getting pregnant by achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. Weight extremes can alter hormone levels and throw ovulation off schedule. For women who are considered to be overweight or obese, due to a body mass index (BMI) equal to or greater than 25, weight loss may improve fertility. On the other hand, women who are classified as being underweight, with a BMI below 18.5 (18.5 to 24.9 signifies a normal weight), may experience irregular menstrual cycles or stop ovulating altogether. Those who regularly participate in high-intensity exercise — such as gymnastics or dancing, have an eating disorder or follow restricted diets — often are at an increased risk.

Avoid going on fad diets, which can deplete your body of the nutrients it needs for pregnancy and find a healthy eating plan that works for you by talking to a registered dietitian nutritionist.

Include Adequate Amounts of Iron

An eating pattern rich in iron that comes from vegetables and supplements may lower the risk of ovulatory infertility, according to results from The Nurses’ Health Study II, which followed 18,500 female nurses trying to get pregnant. Ovulatory infertility is only one cause of infertility.

Vegetarian foods with iron include beans, lentils, spinach, fortified cereals, long-grain enriched rice and whole grains. Add vitamin C from citrus fruits, bell peppers or berries to your meals to enhance iron absorption.

The “Fertility Diet” Pattern

Published by a team of Harvard researchers in 2007, the “Fertility Diet” study— found women with ovulatory infertility who followed this eating pattern had a 66% lower risk of ovulatory infertility and a 27% reduced risk of infertility from other causes than women who didn’t follow the diet closely.

Women following the “fertility diet” chose:

  • Less trans fat and more monounsaturated fat (from foods such as avocados and olive oil)
  • Less animal protein and more vegetable protein
  • More high-fiber, low-glycemic carbohydrate-rich foods (including whole grains)
  • More vegetarian sources of iron and fewer meat sources
  • Multivitamins
  • High-fat dairy instead of low-fat dairy

In general, eating more vegetables and a variety of types, eating healthy monounsaturated fats instead of saturated and trans fats, making at least half your grains whole, and getting enough calcium-rich foods — including dairy — will help you meet nutrient needs and promote a healthy weight.

Don’t Forget Folic Acid

While it won’t make you more fertile, it is crucial that women trying to conceive obtain 400 micrograms per day of folic acid from supplements (if considering taking any supplements, including folic acid, talk to your health care provider first) and include foods such as dark leafy green vegetables and fortified grains. Folic acid is needed to prevent neural tube defects. The neural tube develops into the brain and spine three to four weeks after conception, before most women even realize they’re pregnant.

For more information on foods for fertility and creating a personalized eating plan, consult a registered dietitian nutritionist.
90,000 What to eat to get pregnant: how much does diet affect conception?

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There is still little reliable data on the relationship between nutrition and chances of pregnancy

Oysters and beans, figs and rabbit meat are the foodstuffs attributed to properties of an aphrodisiac, vary depending on the era and culture.

Hearty food has long been thought to be conducive to new life, but does food really make us fertile? What does science say about this?

Some consider oysters the best aphrodisiac, others praise eggplants.

“Beans, soybeans! They make eggs better!” – says a Chinese trader, advertising his product on the street market.

The link between what we eat and our ability to reproduce has been the subject of folkloric, religious and medical observations for thousands of years.

This is a very important question for many potential parents.

It is difficult to get reliable data on fertility around the world, says BBC journalist Emily Thomas.But, for example, in the United States, according to official statistics from the CDC, about 12% of women aged 15 to 44 have difficulty getting pregnant or carrying a child.

So how much can eating well help them? Can food improve fertility?

Journalists on the BBC’s Food Chain program were looking at what science has to say about it.

Food and marriage

Photo by Reg Peller HULTON ARCHIVE GETTY

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Post-war baby boom: More children were born in 1945 in England and Wales than in all other years since 1924

Historically, the conception of a new life was associated with the presence of a large number of products.For example, the end of World War II caused a baby boom in Europe: in England, in particular, the birth rate rose by 30% in just two years.

Of course, this is also explained by the fact that many more marriages began to be concluded after the war.

However, many of the population explosions in different historical eras were caused by changes in the quantity and variety of available products – in particular, the demographic surge of the Neolithic, which began 10 thousand years ago.

Photo author, WIKICOMMONS

Signs to the photo,

Around 300BC NS. there was a population spike caused by the spread of maize

“Around 300 BC, there was more corn in the diet and with it the birth rate rose,” says Tim Kohler, professor of anthropology at the University of Washington.

“An increase in carbohydrates in the diet gives women a better energy balance – then, probably, they ovulate more often and, accordingly, the birth rate increases.”

When there is enough food, other factors come into play – the quantity is clear, but what about the types of food we eat?

Fertility professionals are increasingly considering diet as an important factor in conception, says Professor Jorge Chavarri of the Harvard School of Public Health and Medicine.

“The medical profession has long denied this, but the evidence is piling up and more and more people are being forced to admit that diet and lifestyle are really important,” says Dr. Chavarri in the Food Chain Program.

According to him, the success of infertility treatment in the last decade has not changed much despite the emergence of new technologies – and is unlikely to improve much in the near future.

“Everyone, including pharmaceutical companies, is interested in finding new ways to improve treatment success – so everyone is interested in factors that are easy to modify, such as diet.”

Beans, Eggs, and Syrup

Behavior modification — in this case fertility-friendly and real-life actions — has long been the subject of speculation and, more recently, controversy among medical scientists.

In ancient Egypt, men, in order to become parents, turned to the god Ming for help, one of the elements of worship of which was lettuce – this green vegetable was attributed to the properties of an aphrodisiac.

Fresh figs have been associated with other fertility deities, such as Dionysus in Greek mythology and Juno in Roman mythology.

And this is not the whole list: cookbooks from three hundred years ago recommend a variety of foods for those wishing to become parents, from pet eggs to eggplants. The popular belief is that the body must “warm up” with the proper food in order to create new life.

Pidpis to photo,

Recipes “to increase fertility” in the culinary book of the 16th century, which is kept in the London Welkom Library

“Quite often such a product is mentioned as syrup from the root of the seaside nicholas” – a plant growing on the seashore.It should have been taken by women in the morning on an empty stomach, “says Jennifer Evans, a historian at the University of Hertfordshire, flipping through the pages of a 16th century cookbook.

Also popular centuries ago were practices such as the consumption of fried and shredded belly of rabbits and rabbits, known for their fertility.

“These books continually mention legumes, as well as parsnips and nuts,” Evans says.

Lifestyle changes

you will live, as well as on other aspects of health.

Is fertility on this list?

There is very little data yet available in science on how nutritionally dependent fertility is, says Dr. Chavarri.

“We consume a wide variety of foods, which in turn have a wide range of consequences. In some cases, we see a direct link between nutrients and fertility – but we do not always understand the biological basis of such a link.”

Photo by AFP Getty Images

Signs to photo,

Scientists are looking for the secrets of fertility in foods popular in countries with high fertility – for example, in East Timor

Scientists from Harvard University conducted a long-term study on infertility, in which 19 participated thousands of women.It turned out that diet and lifestyle “are responsible for about two-thirds of cases of infertility associated with ovulation disorders.”

“However, ovulation disorders are just one of many possible causes of infertility. Therefore, considering other factors, I would assume that about 50% of cases of infertility are related to diet and lifestyle – factors to be modified,” said Dr. Chavarri to the BBC.

Benefits of soy

Other animal studies have shown that a certain type of diet for both mothers and fathers before the planned conception has a significant impact on the health of future offspring.

“But if you’re looking for a superfood, you won’t find it. It doesn’t exist,” says our Harvard expert. “But the closest thing to it is soy.” procreation “provides advice to potential parents

A random sample of research has shown that consumption of soy or soy products increases fertility rates among women treated for infertility,” he adds.

As for the miraculous power of coconuts, figs, yams, walnuts and others, “these are mostly myths, without scientific evidence.”

However, of course, there is reason to believe that healthy eating is good for future parents.

“Choose low glycemic or slow carbohydrates such as whole grains and fish and plant-based protein sources such as soy. And try to keep your weight in check when planning a pregnancy.”

Hope for folic acid

Nutritional supplements are also popular. Of these, folic acid is probably the most common – an artificial form of vitamin B, which is better absorbed by the body than the natural form from food.

It has been linked to a reduced risk of malformations in the child when taken at least one month before conception.

Some countries (Kenya, Argentina, South Africa and the United States) have even mandated that this acid be added to staple foods such as wheat flour.

“But this has its drawbacks. We do not know the exact biological mechanism of its action – how it reduces risks. Mandatory consumption of folic acid by the entire population can negatively affect health, increasing the content of unprocessed folic acid in the body, especially in children”, explains Mark Lawrence, professor of food service at Deakin University.

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Relaxation exercises for pregnant women: a healthy lifestyle has a positive effect on bearing a child

Are there foods that would impair fertility?

Yes, according to some scientists, there are substances with this effect – these are mainly hormonal substances or those that mimic the action of hormones.

How do they get into the food chain? Of course, some of them are natural hormones of animal origin.But there are those that are added to the diet of animals in the food industry to promote their reproduction or growth. The remnants of these hormones can be found in milk or meat.

It is not yet clear exactly what happens when we consume them.

“There is no clear evidence that these hormones adversely affect human fertility,” says Richard Lee, a biologist at the University of Nottingham and a specialist in hormonal research.

However, the likelihood that they can harm reproduction has forced the governments of some countries to impose strict control over them.There is also a clear need for further research.

How can fertility be optimized? – Magazine “Road of Fertility”

Each phase of your menstrual cycle offers a unique opportunity to improve your fertility health.

Throughout the 4 phases of your cycle, your body constantly fluctuates in activity, metabolism and hormone levels.

With all these fluctuations, this requires frequent changes in food and nutrient intake.

If the right foods and nutrients are not provided in the right quantities, things can go wrong and the cycle begins to change in quality.

Hormonal imbalances ovulation problems or irregular cycles with shorter or longer phases can develop and cause delayed ovulation and conception.

For millennia, Chinese fertility medicine has placed great emphasis on the four phases of the menstrual cycle and on specific foods that can help or hinder its development and timing.

Today, I will share with you some of this ancient knowledge to give you a foundation for building a healthy cycle that supports your diet.

The 4 phases of your menstrual cycle

Your cycle can be broken down into 4 separate stages, and each stage includes the following steps:

1. Menstruation – your period (follicular phase)

This is where your body dumps the lining of the uterus (the lining of the uterus) from the previous cycle and slides it off your body.

The reason for the loss is to allow your uterus to build a good new lining that is healthy and nourishing for the eventual implantation of a future embryo.

2. After menstruation – from day 5 (Follicular phase)

As soon as your period ends or from the 5th day onwards, your body begins to stimulate the ovaries and follicles with follicle stimulating hormone.

As they are stimulated, they grow and begin to secrete estrogens, causing an increase in the egg white cervical mucus.One follicle eventually becomes dominant and will be luteinized by luteinizing hormone, which will induce ovulation and release an egg.

3. Ovulation – (luteal phase)

Once the egg has been released and ovulation has occurred, the old follicle that released the egg becomes a corpus luteum. The corpus luteum produces a large increase in progesterone, which maintains the luteal phase of the cycle.

4. Post ovulation – after ovulation, up to your period (luteal phase)

With elevated progesterone levels, there is also a good blood supply to the mucous membrane, which contributes to its further thickening.

The increase in heat in your body from progesterone creates a favorable environment for a possible fertilized egg (embryo) to try to invade the lining of the uterus. If this happens, then pregnancy will occur.

Important factors to consider

Each of the 4 stages of the cycle has its own specific nutrient and energy needs, and this can be supported or limited according to your dietary preferences and habits.

For example: The luteal phase (after ovulation) is the time in your cycle when your body heats up, releasing an increased amount of progesterone, which is a warming hormone.

Whenever we need to warm our body, we need more than usual levels of energy and nutrients – just like fire requires more wood to generate more heat.

Regular and more frequent eating, along with the consumption of energy generating foods, is really important at this delicate stage of the cycle, and it helps to generate more heat.

Lack of warmth due to the inability to produce progesterone at the correct level can reduce your chances of a successful implantation and pregnancy.

Reducing food intake, skipping meals, and eating less than usual during this phase of your cycle can negatively affect your ability to produce progesterone.

Over time, this can lead to a deficiency of this vital hormone, which can lead to a short luteal phase, often with low body temperatures on the BBT graph.Then pregnancy becomes difficult, as the internal environment of the uterus is not suitable for embryo implantation.

As I said earlier Fertility is the Road There are 4 important food groups in diet articles that you need to eat every day to maintain fertility health.

Recall that 4 food groups:

Protein Eggs, fish and meat, including red meat 3-4 times a week.

Starch : Cereals, nuts, seeds, beans, legumes and roots.

fiber : Green and dark red leafy vegetables such as kale and savoy cabbage.

Fats : Vegetable, fish and animal fats containing saturated fats for healthy hormone production and cholesterol balance.

Each of these groups should be eaten daily and will provide a regular and stable source of energy and nutrients. If you are a vegetarian or vegan, it will be more difficult for you to reach the protein portion of your diet and may require a high level protein powder supplement as well as vitamin B12 supplements.

4-phase power supply

Phase 1: Menses

This phase is designed to circulate blood and stimulate good blood flow. This is important for all women, and even more so if you suffer from problems such as endometriosis, fibroids, painful periods or mild or short periods.

The goal at this stage of the cycle is to gently support circulation while helping to protect your body from blood loss.

Phase 1 Support Products:

Protein : Chicken eggs, shrimps, mussels, crab, beef, lamb, kidneys.

Starch : Rice, wheat germ, buckwheat, oats, squash, turnip, pumpkin, chestnut, almond, pine kernel, carrot, beet, radish and kohlrabi.

Fiber : Eggplant, leeks, watercress, onions, Chinese cabbage, pak choy, leafy greens, broccoli, coriander, mushrooms, chives, fennel, garlic.

Fruit : Plum, cherry, grapefruit, lemon, kumquat, lychee, mango, orange, peach.

Phase 2: After Menstruation

When your period is over, it is vital for your body to recover from bleeding.It does this by making new blood cells, and certain foods can help a lot.

Improving blood quality helps improve hormone production and circulation, which helps produce balanced levels of FSH, estradiol and LH as you prepare for ovulation. This phase of the cycle focuses on nourishing the coming eggs and helping them ripen so they are ready to be released.

Phase 2 Support Products:

Protein : Chicken egg, duck egg, quail egg, sardine, oyster, squid, salmon, mackerel, trout, beef liver, beef, pork, duck, game, chicken, beef, bovine or bone broth.

Starch : Well-cooked beans and beans – beans, Aduki beans, white beans, black beans and Chinese black beans (fermented soybeans), beets, carrots, parsnips, barley, rice, corn, turnips, sesame seeds (black) …

fiber : Cabbage, kavalo nero, watercress, spinach, spring greens, green cabbage, savoy cabbage, red cabbage, parsley, basil, broccoli, beet greens, Swiss chard, asparagus.

Fruit : Tomatoes, raisins, blackberries, raspberries, black currants, figs, red grapes, black grapes, dates.

Phase 3: Ovulation

By now, your blood quality and fluid levels should be developing well, which will help you produce cervical mucus and prepare for ovulation.

All food and drinks from now on must be prepared and consumed at warm or room temperature.
Avoid any raw foods (salads, juices and smoothies) as they cool your body and cause problems with progesterone production. You are now entering the warm phase of your cycle and this requires special support.

Phase 3 Support Products:

Protein : Crab, shrimp, mussels, chicken, lamb, beef, chicken and beef kidney, chicken liver, bone broth – chicken and lamb bones.

Starch : Chestnut, almond, pine kernel, buckwheat, millet, rice, wheat germ, carrot, beet, celery, kohlrabi, pumpkin, turnip, pumpkin, sweet potato.

fiber : Eggplant, leek, watercress, onion, pak choy, spring greens, leafy greens, red and green cabbage, broccoli, fennel, shitake mushrooms, chive, garlic.

Fruit : Raspberries, blackberries, black currants, plums or prunes if out of season, cherries, lemon in warm water, dried mango, dried figs and rhubarb. Try to eat dried fruit or boiled fruit where possible, as they are not as chilled.

To optimize ovulation, avoid the following moisture-rich foods:

Milk, cheese, yoghurt, eggs, nuts and butter, pasta and refined starchy wheat and rye flours, avocados, cold foods and beverages from the refrigerator and all raw foods Phase 4: After ovulation and before period begins.

You are now in the final phase of your cycle and this is where embryo implantation can occur. The goal of your diet should be to nourish and build up your core energy. This will help your body produce progesterone more easily.

Continue to avoid moisturizing and refrigerating foods as mentioned in phase 3 and only eat hot cooked foods. The same principle still applies to drinks that need to be at room temperature or warm.

Phase 4 Support Products:

Protein : Chicken egg, goose egg, quail egg, sardine, oyster, squid, chicken liver and lamb, lamb, chicken, beef, venison, game, bones – chicken, beef, oxtail or game bones.
Starches: Rice, buckwheat, quinoa, wheat germ, millet, beets, pumpkin, squash, white potatoes, sweet potatoes, lotus root, taro root, sesame seeds (white), walnuts.

fiber : Cabbage, kavalo nero, watercress, broccoli, red cabbage, savoy cabbage, spring greens, leafy greens, mustard greens, alfalfa sprouts, green beans.

Fruit : Blackberries, raspberries, black currants, figs, red and black grapes and dates.

If you are pregnant, you can support your first trimester by eating the foods listed in Phase 4 (Fasting Ovulation). The emphasis should be on slightly higher starch levels, along with frequent meals, and avoiding all cold and raw foods and drinks.

This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Chinese fertility medicine diet, and there are many other elements you can build in to improve your health.

Andrew is the world’s leading medical fertility expert, author and public speaker.He works with clients around the world through his Child Creation Plan treatment program. For a FREE copy of Andrew’s The Ultimate Fertility Guide, go to: NaturalFertilityExpert.com

90,000 10 tips to improve fertility

How does the brain affect our ability to get pregnant?

Believe it or not, it plays a key role! You must really want a child. I mean that the motivation must be so strong that your desire to give birth must be accepted by you internally.Many women are surprised: I really want to become a mother, I consciously want to! But they do not understand that they can have a strong, unconscious resistance within them. In the left hemisphere, all mammals have a region of the brain called the “maternal dominant”, which is responsible for organizing our behavior associated with the birth of children. And in the right hemisphere there is another important center – it is called the “anxiety dominant”. If for some reason he is in an excited state, then he can suppress the “dominant of motherhood” and, accordingly, the ability to conceive.That is, your own brain – without your natologist – sends signals to the body: not pregnant, this is dangerous now! If this happens for a long time, functional changes in the internal organs may begin – ovulation will stop, hormonal balance will be disturbed, etc.

In what cases is the “alarm dominant” activated?

Any unresolved issue you are responding to could be the cause. Your social environment is of paramount importance. For example, if you have a tense relationship with your mother-in-law, your own mother or husband, or you are afraid (even subconsciously) that having a child will limit your personal freedom, then the dominant anxiety will be constantly excited and it will be difficult for you to get pregnant.In my practice, there are often couples who have scandals just at the time of ovulation – like clockwork! – and they, accordingly, avoid intimacy these days. Perhaps they unconsciously feel anxiety, do not want a child, although they themselves deny it. By the way, men also have a dominant anxiety – it can suppress sperm activity just as well as ovarian function in women. I had a patient to whom my mother used to say in childhood: “I did 20 abortions before you, but I left you, you idiot, so that you spoil my life now!” Unego, accordingly, had a “block” for the birth of his own children.

But there are women who become pregnant “from the wind” …

They do not have a subconscious fear of having children or, for example, the hyperresponsibility that is characteristic of many successful modern women who have difficulties with conception. Those who become pregnant “from the wind”, for one reason or another, are not afraid that the child will interfere with their life.

How to remove these blocks?

Often pregnancy occurs when we simply let go of the problem, stop straining ourselves and straining our partner.Many women diagnosed with infertility decide to adopt a child and then unexpectedly become pregnant themselves – sometimes already at the stage of adoption. This happens because they either cease to experience stress – to torment themselves and their husbands in order to conceive at any cost, or they simply take the parental position internally. And then everything works out! In general, it is important for a woman to realize her fears and find out: the child will help or hinder her. Many are afraid that the latter will happen, without good reason.

How do you help women?

With each individual we study family history – in particular, what image of the mother the woman carries in herself (as a rule, it is copied from her own mother, and if it is negative, this can also prevent getting pregnant), but usually we go deeper and look at least 3-4 generations of family scenarios. Of course, we also analyze your current life situation – at work, with your man, parents, etc. Vitoge find out your “subconscious plan” – after all, most often you yourself know very well when you can “allow” yourself to get pregnant.As a result, we develop your personal “maternity plan”.

90,000 10 products to help you get pregnant

Diet affects almost everything in the body, from skin to weight and blood pressure. The food we eat can help solve some health problems or, in some cases, cause unexpected problems.

Fertility is one of those issues where diet might help. Over the years, numerous studies have suggested “fertility foods” that you can eat to improve overall reproductive health.These foods mainly work because of certain nutrients that play a vital role in the conception of a baby. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in ten women can suffer from infertility.

To reduce the risk of developing fertility problems, the Center’s specialists named the main foods that you can eat to naturally increase the chances of conceiving a child.

1. Oysters. According to experts, oysters can increase libido and serve as an excellent source of zinc for fertility.It can increase the production of good quality eggs in women. Oysters also offer other important reproductive vitamins and minerals such as iron and vitamin B12.

2. Algae . Seaweed simply helps maintain the functioning of the liver, kidneys, bladder and adrenal glands, which play a key role in maintaining good fertility.

3. Figs . It has been widely used as a fertile food since the days of the ancient Greeks.Scientific research has also shown that figs provide enough iron to support ovulation.

4. Beans . Beans also offer iron to improve fertility and libido. Legumes are a good source of protein that can protect women from ovulation problems.

5. Poppy root . This herb not only promotes good fertility in women, but also helps men. Maca root increases energy, improves the immune system, and provides important minerals and nutrients such as iron and iodine.

6. Sunflower seeds or seed oil. Sunflower provides vitamin E, which can increase male fertility, according to the Center. It helps men increase their motility and sperm count and improve DNA fragmentation.

7. Ice cream . Ice cream and other fatty dairy products such as whole milk, full-fat yogurt, and cream cheese have been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of ovulation problems in women.

8. Eggs . Eggs are a good source of B vitamins and lean protein. Omega-fortified eggs are known to be beneficial for fertility in both men and women.

9. Salmon . Wild salmon contains fatty acids, omega-3s, vitamin D and selenium, which are known to help men and women improve their reproductive performance. In women, salmon can promote healthy fetal growth.

10. Cinnamon .Cinnamon may help improve the health of diabetics, which has been linked to infertility in women due to polycystic ovary syndrome. Cinnamon lowers glucose, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol in diabetic patients, which can then lead to improved ovulation.

Nevertheless, experts warn before taking any of these products, make sure that you are not allergic to them or individual intolerances in order to avoid any health problems, writes MedicalDaily.

90,000 How to get pregnant the first time

You think you know how conception happens: a man meets a woman, they make love, and after 9 months a baby is born! But do you know exactly where the sperm and eggs come from? Or how do they meet and create new life? Read about the amazing biological processes that underlie conception.

What happens inside a woman’s body? Egg release.

The ability to get pregnant depends on the ovaries.They are oval in shape, small in size and located on the sides of the uterus. The ovaries contain eggs that are formed before a woman is born. Each newborn girl’s ovaries contain up to 450,000 eggs. A large number of eggs die almost immediately. The number of those remaining gradually decreases as the girl grows up. Over the entire childbearing period, about 400 eggs are released from the ovaries. This process begins with your first menstrual cycle and ends with menopause at the age of 45-50.

Each month, usually around the middle of the menstrual cycle, between one and three eggs begin to mature in the ovary. The most mature egg is then released and quickly enters the nearest fallopian tube through the tulip-shaped opening. From the ovaries to the uterus, there are two fallopian tubes, each about 10 cm long. This release of the egg is called ovulation. The exact time of ovulation depends on the length of your menstrual cycle. On a 28-day cycle, ovulation occurs between the 12th and 15th days.The first day of the new cycle is the first day of your period. Your cycle length, egg maturation, and ovulation time are all controlled by various hormones working together. Read the article on the menstrual cycle to learn more about hormones. On average, the egg is viable and can be fertilized within 12-24 hours after leaving the ovary. For conception to occur, she needs to meet with the sperm as soon as possible. If your egg can meet healthy sperm on its way to the uterus, they can connect and start creating new life.When this does not happen, the egg is destroyed in the uterus. If conception does not occur, the ovary stops producing the hormones estrogen and progesterone that support pregnancy. Following a drop in the level of these hormones, the thickened lining of the walls of the uterus is torn away from the walls and comes out along with the destroyed egg during menstruation.

What happens inside the male body? The sperm path.

While a single egg slowly matures in a woman’s body for a month, millions of microscopic spermatozoa are formed almost continuously in a man’s body.The only purpose of the existence of the sperm is to push forward and penetrate the egg. If women are already born with the required number of eggs for life, then in the male body sperm begins to be produced only with the onset of puberty. The entire sperm production process takes 64 to 72 days. Given the fact that sperm lives in a man’s body on average for only a few weeks, and with each ejaculation about 300 million sperm are released, one can imagine how intensively the sperm factory works in a man’s body.

The male hormone testosterone is responsible for sperm production. Sperm is formed in the testicles. They are two glands that are located in the scrotum under the penis. The testicles are located outside as they are very sensitive to temperature. To produce healthy sperm, the temperature of the testicles must be about 4 degrees below normal body temperature. The new sperm is stored in a coiled tubule, about 12 m long, called the epididymis or epididymis.Before ejaculation, the sperm moves upward and mixes with the liquid portion of the semen.

Despite the fact that during the process of ejaculation, a huge number of sperm are released, only one of them is able to fertilize an egg. The gender of the unborn child depends on the type of sperm that enters the egg first. If it is a sperm with an X chromosome, a girl will be born, with a Y chromosome – a boy. There are many myths about how to conceive a boy or girl. Some of them are scientifically based, but in general, the gender of the child is determined by chance.

What happens during sex?

In addition to pleasure, your bodies experience tension, which is finally relieved by orgasm. This surprisingly pleasant process also has an important biological function. In men, during orgasm, semen is ejected into the vagina. Sperm travels to the cervix at an approximate speed of 18 km / h. Ejaculation gives the sperm a good start on the path to the egg. But the female orgasm is also very important for conception.Some studies have shown that wave-like contractions help the sperm move further into the cervix. So relax and get the most out of it. This will only increase your chances of conceiving a child.

Many couples wonder if there are special conception positions. It is not known exactly, however, some experts claim that the optimal positions are:

  • Missionary position, when the man is on top
  • Knee-elbow, when the man is behind the woman

Both of these postures promote better penetration.The most important thing is to make love with pleasure and quite often so that viable sperm are present in the woman’s reproductive system during ovulation. Not all women ovulate in the middle of their menstrual cycle or at the same time in every cycle. Therefore, to increase your chances of success, make love at least every other day.

You relax and the sperm starts to work

So cross your fingers and hope for a happy conception.Some experts advise a woman to lie on her back after intercourse with a pillow under her buttocks for at least 20-30 minutes, so that the sperm moves to the fertilization site under the influence of gravity.

While you and your other half are resting in each other’s arms, there is a lot of work going on in your bodies. Millions of sperm have begun searching for your egg. This journey is not easy. On its way, the sperm can meet several obstacles:

  • Vaginal acidity.It can be harmful to semen
  • Cervical mucus. It can be an insurmountable obstacle, except for a couple of days when you are most fertile. During this period, the mucus magically changes its consistency and allows some of the strongest swimmers to move on

The surviving sperm still has a long way to go. He will have to travel almost 18 cm from the cervix through the uterus to the fallopian tubes. Imagine what a journey it is if it moves at an approximate speed of 2.5 cm every 15 minutes.The fastest can reach an egg in 45 minutes. The leisurely one can take up to 12 hours. If the sperm does not immediately meet with the egg in the fallopian tube, it can stay there for 12 to 24 hours. If ovulation occurs during this period, you have a chance of becoming pregnant.

Spermatozoa die in such quantities that only a few dozen approach the egg. Some are trapped, lost, rushing to another fallopian tube, or perished along the way.But even for the lucky ones who find themselves next to the egg, the race is not over. They have to work hard to get through the membrane into the egg before the rest. When the most stubborn sperm breaks through, the egg instantly changes in such a way that others can no longer penetrate it. Something like a protective layer begins to protect the egg from other sperm cells when the first is already inside.

Beginning of True Wonders

The egg will be fertilized within 24 hours of its release.The genetic material of the sperm is mixed with the genetic material of the egg. A new cell is formed, which begins to divide rapidly. In fact, you are not pregnant until the moment when this clot of cells, this embryo, overcomes the rest of the way through the fallopian tube to the uterus and does not attach to its wall.

In the event that the embryo is fixed not in the uterus, but, for example, in the fallopian tube, an ectopic pregnancy develops. An ectopic pregnancy is not viable.The embryo is surgically removed to avoid rupture of the fallopian tube. The final section of the journey from the fallopian tube to the uterus may take another 6 days. But it will take a couple more weeks before your period is delayed and you suspect a possible pregnancy. If you have a delay or notice other signs of pregnancy, you can use a home pregnancy test to dispel your doubts. If conception has occurred, congratulations – you are at the beginning of a new amazing journey!

90,000 Doctors explain how wormwood decoction can help patients with coronavirus

A hot broth of wormwood can help combat the spread of coronavirus in the human body, according to American scientists.In the future, they plan to create a medicine from this plant that will become an alternative to the vaccine. Russian doctors were skeptical about the idea: according to them, the wormwood broth really has antiviral properties and even helps to fight the thrombosis associated with COVID-19, but in general it can only be used as an adjuvant.

The first clinical trials of wormwood extract proved the effectiveness of this agent in the fight against SARS-CoV-2 – with its help American scientists managed to stop the spread of the virus in cells in laboratory conditions.The results of the study were published on the bioRxiv website.

Artemisia annua, or wormwood, is widely used in several countries to treat tropical malaria and even helped fight SARS-CoV-1, the virus that caused the outbreak of SARS in 2002-2003. Now scientists have proven that, as a hot water extract, it has antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2. Moreover, it fights the wormwood virus after its penetration into the cells.

“The results show that the active ingredient in the extracts, probably not artemisinin, but some other or combination of ingredients, acts synergistically to block viral infection after penetration,” the portal quoted research leader Pamela Weathers from the Worcestersky Department of Biology and Biotechnology. Polytechnic Institute.

Now the researchers have to continue testing to see if it is possible to create a preparation based on the powder from dried wormwood leaves. They predict it could be an inexpensive and safe treatment against the new coronavirus that can be used where vaccination is difficult.

Russian doctors have recognized the presence of a whole spectrum of useful properties in wormwood. As the therapist Ekaterina Yashina explained to Gazeta.Ru, a decoction of this herb has been used in Russian folk medicine for a long time:

“It was given for fever, liver and spleen diseases, dropsy.Fresh juice mixed with alcohol – for kidney stones, insomnia, as an antihelminthic and wound healing agent. ”

Among the useful properties of wormwood, doctors distinguish antiviral, immunomodulatory and antibacterial action. “It has a complex effect on the human body. It may not have a direct effect on the focus of the disease, but it kills secondary infections. The anti-inflammatory and anti-thrombotic effect of wormwood is also important. It improves blood flow.With covid, this is just an important aspect, ”immunologist Vladimir Bolibok told Gazeta.Ru.

At the same time, allergy sufferers should treat preparations containing wormwood with caution, the doctors warned. It is better to take allergy tests before use.

“In some cases, the extract can cause heartburn, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea. In case of an overdose, tremor, headache, dizziness, convulsions and hallucinations are observed, and allergy sufferers may have anaphylactic shock, ”noted Yekaterina Yashina.

According to her, a drug based on wormwood, which can be regarded as a dietary supplement, should be used only as an adjuvant therapy for coronavirus, but not as a cure for it. “This is closer to folk remedies than to a real drug. Of course, there are proponents of homeopathic treatment for all diseases who take herbal supplements and believe that it cures them 100%, but this is not always the case. COVID-19 is an insidious disease, and we cannot predict where a complication can emerge, ”the doctor is sure.

I agree with my colleague, pulmonologist Marina Kazakova, who advised not to draw conclusions based on the first clinical trials: “The drug may be toxic, for example. Therefore, such preliminary data is absolutely not a reason to run to brew wormwood or eat it. It can only really hurt. ”

Moreover, as Vladimir Bolibok noted, in Russia the production and use of preparations based on wormwood has been prohibited since 2013, despite their positive properties.

“We had very powerful drugs based on wormwood, but then the State Drug Control Service classified it as narcotic drugs or precursors, and the enterprises stopped producing a number of drugs. And this is a disaster, to be honest, because we have lost good results from the treatment with wormwood.

American doctors, in fact, are rediscovering what we, Russian doctors, have known for a long time, ”the immunologist concluded.

Earlier in Russia, they already tried to find ways to treat coronavirus infection in traditional medicine.So, garlic, turmeric, lemon and ginger were in special demand at the height of the pandemic. The demand for the latter, for example, increased by 80% at the end of March. Chaga, a mushroom that most often grows on a birch, has attracted wide attention of Russians. It appears on wounded or old trees and protects them from pests, drying out and mold. In the case of humans, chaga is able to strengthen the body’s immunity, nutritionist Elena Solomatina told Gazeta.Ru.

“Chaga has long been used as a therapeutic agent – antiviral, bactericidal and antitumor.It will not be superfluous to use it for the treatment or prevention of coronavirus. Chaga stimulates the immune response and even modifies it: it does not allow the development of a cytokine storm, that is, it causes the number of soldiers that is necessary to kill the enemy – a virus, ”she explained.

Chaga is available in pharmacies as tea, cream, coffee, face serum and jam. It is this processed mushroom that should be used for the prevention of diseases, since the one on the tree could absorb harmful substances.

“We do not know what salts of heavy metals, radionuclides this tree has accumulated. Chaga can absorb the harmful waste that this tree contains. Either we run into the taiga with an ax, or we buy chaga from the pharmacy, which has been tested for radiation and other toxins, ”concluded Elena Solomatina.

At the same time, doctors still do not recommend relying entirely on traditional medicine in the fight against coronavirus. As noted by the pediatrician-immunologist, Doctor of Medical Sciences Andrei Prodeus, doctors have no reason to believe that such methods can really help patients.

“In a fairy tale, something helps a lot of people, but I would like to know the specific mechanism of influence on infectious processes. You can even walk around the patient with a tambourine, but this is unlikely to help him. It seems to me that this is not even worth discussing, because there are diseases, certain symptoms, pathogenesis, there are treatment mechanisms. If someone can show that traditional means can really help, then please let them show. However, let them check it themselves, without involving the masses, ”Prodeus said in a conversation with Gazeta.Ru “.

90,000 you can live with arrhythmia

IT IS POSSIBLE TO LIVE WITH ARRHYTHMIA! ..

Heart rhythm disorders are widespread and often occur in the practice of a doctor of any specialty, especially a cardiologist and therapist. There are different types of heart rhythm disturbances. But here we will immediately make a reservation that rhythm disturbance is not a disease, but a syndrome that accompanies the disease. For example, the most common type of heart rhythm disturbance is extrasystole – premature excitation of the heart, which occurs in 95% of the healthy population.Cardiac arrhythmias can be detected in a healthy person, and in this case they have a completely benign character, without affecting at least the quality of life. And at the same time, heart rhythm disturbances are one of the most frequent and significant complications of completely different diseases.

The head of the department of surgery of arrhythmias and electrocardiostimulation of GBUZ PKKB No. 1 Viktor Dmitrievich Britsin tells in detail about arrhythmias:

– Violation of the heart rhythm is a common syndrome that can be caused by both heart pathology and various non-cardiac diseases and functional changes in the body.Sometimes the cause of the rhythm disturbance cannot be determined idiopathic rhythm disturbance.

Causes of cardiac arrhythmias include :

1. Functional disorders of the body are reflex and psychogenic. As the ancient sages said, the heart is the mirror of the soul and the container of our emotions. In the human body, there is a direct link between mood and heart rate. The relationship between mood and heart rate is most clearly manifested in stressful and extreme conditions.

2. Organic heart disease:

– Ischemic heart disease.

– Arterial hypertension.

– Acquired valvular heart disease.

– Myocardiopathy heart muscle disease.

– Infectious-toxic, which include: rheumatism, viral and focal infections.

3. Hormonal changes in the body associated with thyroid pathology and pregnancy.

4. Toxic reasons , which include overdose and side effects of medications, alcohol, tobacco, poisoning with organic compounds and products of biological origin.

5. Congenital malformations of the heart.

6. Electrolyte disturbances , which are caused by various diseases of the body.

7. Injuries and operations .

– Viktor Dmitrievich, can a heart rhythm disorder pose a threat to life?

Arrhythmias are common and generally harmless.In most cases, a person feels the loss of one or more contractions, interruptions in the work of the heart “it beats, then it does not beat”, or a very frequent heartbeat. Their danger can only be assessed by a doctor.

Atrial fibrillation is a very common heart rhythm disorder. This type of heart rhythm disturbance often leads to the patient’s disability due to its complications. These include ischemic stroke and progression of heart failure. When the atria fibrillate, they are unable to adequately pump blood to the ventricles.Slowing blood flow in the atria leads to the formation of clots. When a small piece is detached from the clot, it falls into the bloodstream. Thus, it spreads throughout the body and clogs the cerebral arteries, causing the development of ischemic stroke, i.e. damage or death of a part of the brain, and sometimes death. This category of patients, in addition to antiarrhythmic drugs, takes prophylactic drugs that thin the blood.

There are arrhythmias, the symptoms of which are dangerous, even life threatening.The threat of sudden arrhythmic death is carried by ventricular arrhythmias, turning into ventricular fibrillation; somewhat less often – bradyarrhythmias (rare pulse), which threaten asystole of the heart, otherwise cardiac arrest.

– So what exactly are arrhythmias?

Arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat, is an irregular heartbeat and abnormal heart rate that is rare or frequent. Each type of heart rhythm disturbance has its own mechanism of occurrence.In some cases, the formation of an impulse for the contraction of the heart is disrupted, in others – a violation of its conduction. As a result, the heart muscle as a whole or parts of it individually contract irregularly or a rare and frequent heartbeat occurs.

– When are patients referred to your department?

Hospitalized in our department :

– patients with life-threatening bradycardia for implantation of a pacemaker;

– patients with life-threatening ventricular tachycardia for implantation of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators, and patients with decompensated heart failure, who are implanted with cardioressynchronizers;

– patients with tachyarimia, when conservative therapy is ineffective and futile.This category of patients undergoes interventional catheter operations on the conducting pathways of the heart.

Indications for surgical treatment are given by a cardiologist and cardiovascular surgeon. The patient is hospitalized in the direction of a cardiologist or therapist of the polyclinic service

– What modern research standards are used in medical practice?

For the diagnosis of cardiac arrhythmias, electrocardiography, Holter monitoring (otherwise, daily ECG monitoring), transesophageal electrophysiological examination of the heart are used.In case of complex cardiac arrhythmias, endocardial electrophysiological examination of the heart is used to clarify the diagnosis. This procedure is carried out in a specially equipped operating room.

– What are the principles of treatment and when is surgical treatment necessary?

Drug therapy for arrhythmias is prescribed when it aggravates the prognosis and threatens life, negatively affects blood circulation in the patient’s body, and when the arrhythmia is subjectively poorly tolerated by the patient.First of all, the underlying disease is treated. The purpose of antiarrhythmic therapy is to stop arrhythmias and prevent their occurrence. Surgical or interventional treatment is carried out when drug therapy is ineffective and futile. Above, I have already dwelt on the indications and methods of treatment.

– Viktor Dmitrievich, summing up our conversation, the question naturally arises: how to maintain good health after surgery, and what kind of lifestyle to lead?

– Prevention of cardiac arrhythmia, first of all, is the timely treatment of the underlying disease, which is complicated by an irregular heart rhythm.And in general – it is important to adhere to the basic rules of a Healthy lifestyle , of the correct daily routine, as well as regularly take walks in the fresh air, avoid stressful situations and not physically overload. Of course, you must follow the doctor’s recommendations!

Tatiana Mineeva,

Regional center doctor

medical prevention.

t. 241-39-57

.