There are so many factors affecting fertility. Quite frankly it can be overwhelming.  Where should you start? I work with anybody that is wanting to carry a child to attain and maintain a healthy pregnancy.  So, let’s start with what you should be doing to prepare your body for a healthy pregnancy.

Nutrition – Your body needs the proper foundation for fertility.  I call this using food as medicine.  To have a healthy baby you need to eat healthy and nutritious meals.  To be successful with your nutrition, you will need to read labels.  I go more in-depth regarding healthy nutrition in my Harmonize Your Hormones free e-book.

Here are some basic tips:

1. Eat whole foods and avoid processed/refined foods
2. Try to eat organic as much as possible
3. If you eat meat, make sure it was raised as organically as possible
4. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains in moderated if tolerated, healthy fats, and lean proteins.
5. Avoid sugar and sugar substitutes
6. Avoid coffee/ caffeine and alcohol, these deplete your nutrients
7. Avoid trans fats and hydrogenated oils

Environmental- There are certain toxins that can disrupt your hormones and thus make it harder to conceive.   This includes heavy metals, certain medications, agrochemicals, etc.  Here are some ways to avoid these:

1. Get a water purifier for your drinking water and your shower.
2. Avoid heating your foods in plastic containers
3. Avoid using a microwave
4. Avoid wearing your shoes in your home. Leave them at the front door!
5. Avoid dust and fumes

Lifestyle – These basic lifestyle tips may seem simple but can make a huge difference in your overall hormonal health.

1. Drink 2-3 liters of clean water per day
2. Exercise 2 hours per week
3. Avoid drugs and smoking
4. Get 7-8 hours of sleep per night (especially while you can!)
5. Learn ways to manage your stress
6. Start taking appropriate supplements to address nutritional deficiencies

All of these measures should be in place for both prospective parents for at least four months before a conception, as this is how long it takes for sperm to generate and eggs to mature, during which time they are vulnerable to toxicity and nutrient deficiencies.