Wellness has become a buzzword in today’s world, and can easily make people feel overwhelmed and stressed. Online influencers often use an all or nothing approach that induces fear rather than healthy motivation. Instead, I prefer to go back-to-basics and follow a path that will nourish your body while still leaving room for life.
Here are some of my favorite ways to boost your fertility today:
1. Reduce Toxins: Research tells us that toxins in our environment can directly impact hormones and fertility. You’ve likely heard of endocrine disruptors like BPA and phthalates, but there are many others. I recommend reducing your toxic load by making some easy swaps in your home and lifestyle. For tips on how to make these swaps without feeling overwhelmed, head over to this blog here!
2. Diet: Eating real, whole foods and maintaining balanced blood sugar are vital to your hormones and fertility. I recommend a low glycemic diet that’s packed with fiber, high quality protein, zinc, and omega 3s. To keep your blood sugar in check, be sure to include protein and healthy fat with all of your meals and snacks. For some meal inspiration, grab my free guide for a day of hormone friendly meals and snacks here!
3. Supplements: Whether you’re trying to conceive or working with a client who is, the topic of supplements is bound to arise. I believe that the most important way to support health and fertility is through nutritionally dense foods, but we all fall short in some areas and need a boost to get our bodies to an optimal place. Some of my favorite supplements to support fertility are Omega 3s, a quality probiotic, and Vitamin D. You can read more about my favorite supplements for fertility here! 4. Sleep: Poor sleep is associated with a multitude of health issues, including those that affect fertility. The exact number of hours needed will vary from person to person, but the goal is to get enough rest to feel rejuvenated in the morning. To create an optimal sleep environment, I recommend dimming the lights in your home in the evening, minimizing blue light at least one hour before bed, creating a wind down ritual that signals sleep to your body, and eating enough protein during the day (at least 20% of your daily calorie intake) to avoid nocturnal hypoglycemia. 5. Hydrate: According to Dr. Aumatma, proper hydration supports the healthy production of cervical and seminal fluid - both of which are critical to fertility. I recommend drinking at least ½ your body weight (in oz) every day!
For the most part, I believe a wellness routine should be about adding good things to your life rather than focusing on restriction. It’s all about finding what makes your body feel and function at its best, and letting the rest go.