By Sue Bedford (MSc Nutritional Therapy)
An embryo, like a seed, needs the right environment and nutrients in order to develop into a healthy baby. This is why it is critical to nourish your body and take proper care of yourself not only whilst preparing for fertility treatment, but also, during treatment, and beyond.
To help increase your chances of falling pregnant it is a good idea to get your body ‘fertility fit’ ideally 3-6 months before hoping to conceive by adopting some simple lifestyle such as: eating a Mediterranean-style ‘diet’, getting enough good quality sleep, exercising, being adequately hydrated and taking care of yourself (self care).
Including nutrient-dense foods in your daily meal plan prior to fertility treatment, throughout it, during the two-week wait (typically one of the most challenging phases of fertility treatment for many) and beyond can help reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and promote hormone balance.
5 Great reasons to nourish your body with these fab fertility-friendly foods during the 2-week wait (2WW)
Shellfish (thoroughly cooked) nuts, and seeds are good sources of zinc for progesterone support and hormone balance.
Fatty fish (such as salmon, sardines and mackerel), avocado, and olive oil are all high in ‘good fats’, which help to reduce inflammation.
Broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage are examples of cruciferous vegetables that are high in fibre and help to balance oestrogen levels as they contain a substance called diindolylmethane (DIM), which supports the excretion of used hormones such as oestrogen and prevents their re-uptake.
Pomegranate, beetroot, and garlic are high in nitrates, which help to enhance blood flow.
Poultry, salmon, Banana, avocado, tofu and potatoes (sweet and white) are good sources of vitamin B6 for progesterone support.
The post 5 Great reasons to nourish your body with these fab fertility-friendly foods during the 2 week wait appeared first on IVF Babble.
IVF BabbleRead More