FERTILITY FOODS BUILD UTERINE LINING IMPLANTATION AVOID MISCARRIAGE FERTILITY MASSAGE

I had a request to post on fertility friendly foods and give a list. This is very detailed so please read thoroughly. Fertility friendly foods are basically foods to help increase your chances of conceiving while eating healthy at the same time. Most healthy foods are already fertility friendly so try not to stress yourself about what foods to eat.

  1.The first step would be eliminating bad foods from your diet, sodas, junk, sugary foods and fast foods. An occasional fast food is certainly fine. My first step towards stopping cysts from growing was saying goodbye to cow's milk. I no longer drink cows milk and only drink nut milk. Almond milk, coconut milk etc. The sooner you get used to eating fertility friendly foods the easier it would be once you get pregnant.

2. Water: Drink alkaline water. Alkaline water has a higher pH level than regular drinking water. Because of this, some advocates of alkaline water believe it can neutralize the acid in your body. The more alkaline your body & foods are the less disease you have. And also easier to conceive.

   The easiest way to alkaline your water is with lime. Purchase spring water or buy filtered pur jug and squeeze in a whole lime cut up(the juices in a gallon) I prefer lime but you can certainly use lemon. If using lime or lemons use preferably key lime with seeds or lemon with seeds. So squeeze the lime/lemon in a bowl remove seeds and then add to your gallon of water.

3. Cleansing: It is very essential to cleanse and detox your body especially liver/kidney to filter out any excess hormones. Why is it important to cleanse?  The Liver is important in reproduction largely because of its role in menstruation. During the premenstrual period the Liver shifts the Blood flow from other body parts to the Uterus.

     Blockage in the Liver system is a most eloquent description of why pre-menstrual tension and its associated symptoms occur. At this time any Liver obstruction will cause Qi and blood to "back up" or stagnate. When the Liver system is not functioning smoothly, the hormonal system is not either. The Uterus itself can become a toxic environment, hostile to implantation. Excess estrogen is not metabolized effectively and can build up, because it is the liver that metabolizes hormones. Estrogen dominance is implicated in conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and cancer. Most women with these diseases are diagnosed with an element of Liver  stagnation. When the Qi/Emotions and blood are blocked and not flowing smoothly symptoms such as endometriosis, blocked tubes, blood clots, premenstrual cramping and pain, and irregular menses can occur.
   Now the question is how are your emotions? I will cover how emotions affect menstruation, reproductive cycle and fertility later on.

CLEANSING JUICE:
Organic Celery, Organic cranberry/pomegranate, Organic apple, Organic Carrots, 1/2 cup of pineapple and Ginger. Juice and drink

CLEANSING TEA:
Organic Dandelion, Nettle, Raspberry Leaf(This will also tone your uterus), Burdock, Ginger(fresh if possible), Dong Quai and Red Clover. Find those herbs or single herb tea from vitacost add each tea bag to teapot with water and dilute with 16 oz of hot water and drink. Or purchase herbs from mountain rose herbs add 1/2 teaspoon of each herb to hot water, allow to steep for 20 minutes and drink. Or purchase the women's herb tea blend from here

BACTERIA FIGHTING HERBS: These herbs are essential to help remove any bacteria blocking the fallopian tubes and causing inflammation especially with cysts/fibroids/endometriosis.
   Calendula, Cinnamon Stick, Oregano, Ginger and Echinacea. Make a tea with 1-2 of  these and drink daily.

CLEANSING VEGETABLE SOUP:
Burdock Root(Most Chinese grocery stores sell burdock root it looks like cassava. Peel and cut up like potatoes. I would start small 1/2  a cup in soups at first. Don't go overboard with this), Organic Celery, 1/2 cup of quinoa, Onions, ginger, 2 tablespoon of dandelion leaves (also in most Asian or Chinese grocery stores) and wild salmon/oysters(add this for the men high in zinc and increases sperm count).

So take about 7 days taking the juice, tea and soup. Ensure you are drinking lots of water(lime/lemon in it) during these 7 days to help flush out toxing through your urination. You will find you are urinating more and that is fine.

4. MALE SPERM BOOSTING FOODS

  The key is eating foods high in vitamin c, a, e, selenium, zinc and antioxidants.
Oysters(highest in zinc get one from usa instead of made in china. They sell fresh oysters at most fresh seafood stores - add them to soups, some eat them raw with hot pepper sauce or stir fry with vegetables), brazil nuts(highest in selenium), Turkey, kale, turnip greens, mustard greens, asparagus, garlic, ginger, walnuts, ginseng American/Chinese, pineapples, banana, English cucumbers(from trader joes its very small but best), organic eggs, organic romaine lettuce, coconut water, gluten free brown rice spaghetti, spelt pasta, organic roma tomatoes, zucchini, oranges, organic apples, peppers, habanero(try to have them avid using too much hot sauce), pomegranates, avocadoes, broccoli, almonds, dark chocolate, brown rice (I love Uncle Ben's brown rice not too hard like other ones I have tried), Sesame seeds, Lamb(eat organic if possible), walnuts, cashew, mushrooms, chickpeas(you can get hummus dip at the grocery store and it contains garlic, chickpeas & sesame read the ingredients), lobster, red snapper, halibut, rockfish, any good fish(avoid tilapia or mackerel). . Oils - grapeseed use for cooking or frying. Grass fed unsalted butter add about 1 tablespoon for cooking also.

SAMPLE MALE MEAL 1
Breakfast: Make with grass fed unsalted butter 1 tablespoon should be fine. Omelette with diced kale, oysters, tomatoes, onions, dash of ginger, green peppers and avocadoes.
Snack: Pita Crackers or pita chips (get some from trader joes with plain sea salt) with 5 tablespoon of hummus dip.
Water - filtered or spring water with lime/lemon in it. Pomegranate juice or fresh juice made with (carrots, apples, celery).
Lunch: Sourdough bread( I love sourdough because of the fermentation process which is great for the body but any whole grain or food for life gluten free breads. Note the Ezekiel breads are great for men but not for women because of the soy.) Make a sandwich with toasted bread turkey meat a slice of tomatoes, slice of avocado and spread of hummus/Hampton creek just mayo. Serve with 1 banana or a smoothie.
Smoothie: Banana, blueberries/strawberries, almond milk and a little ginger.
Dinner: Brown rice topped with lamb stew( add tomatoes, burdock, ginger, garlic, onions) and serve with steamed stir fried (broccoli, kale, mustard greens or asparagus)

SAMPLE MALE MEAL 2
Breakfast: Cooked old fashioned rolled oats, kamut hot cereal by Bob's red mill, rolled spelt hot cereal, creamy rye flakes hot cereal, brown rice farina hot cereal. They are all by bob's red mill cost about $5 and can be found on vitacost.com. So cook with spring water(plain no lime or lemon) or almond milk sweeten with agave nectar. Serve with cut up fruit mix - watermelon, strawberries and blueberries.  Another cereal alternative is a bowl of healthy dry cereal with almond milk.
Snack:  Banana with almond butter, heathy cookies, healthy chips, veggie chips, nuts with healthy juice.
Water - filtered or spring water with lime/lemon in it. Pomegranate juice or fresh juice made with (carrots, apples, celery)
Lunch: Boiled yam or sweet potatoes with baked salmon and side of veggies. Or big bowl of salad with cut up turkey breast, avocados, tiny cherry tomatoes, sprinkle of sesame seeds/crushed up brazil nuts and balsamic dressing.
Dinner: Fufu made with (brown rice flour, teff flour, quinoa flour, kamut, spelt or dark rye) also called dumplings in Jamaican. Eat with lots of kale/mustard/turnip greens cooked with onions, touch of habanero, 1-2 tablespoon of palm oil/grapeseed oil add your choice of meat - fish/turkey/chicken/goat/lamb. You want your fufu to be about 1 cup and 3-4 cups of veggies with protein. Substitute fufu for spelt pasta/whole grain pasta/boiled or baked plantains.


4. FEMALE FERTILITY FOODS:

  Healthy foods in general but also targeting foods that will help build your uterine lining, reduce mucus, encourage blood flow to the uterus and healthy eggs.
Avoid soy products read your labels also most Chinese foods include soy sauce, avoid beef I eat beef twice or three times a month, alfalfa( they cause inflammation especially cause lupus, chia seeds, no ginseng only good for men.
     Thin uterine lining  are caused by tilted uterus, low blood flow to the uterus, fibroids, cysts, hormones, birth control medications, repeated use of clomid and so much more. So building a healthy uterus is essential.
    Key foods to build uterine lining and help implantation of baby:
     Pomegranate juice(highest in building uterine lining), red raspberry leaf tea(also second highest add a 3 drops of almond milk to reduce the tannins. Purchase at target in store, any grocery store, whole foods, and vitacost), Pineapple Core - The core is the center of the pineapple. (great for implantation start adding them to smoothies before your ovulation period and when you ovulate. Stop using once you get pregnant), Organic Romaine Lettuce, Almonds, mustard greens, kale, turnip greens, avocado, cauliflower, broccoli, sesame seeds, hazelnuts, kiwi, grass fed butter, paprika, red chili, organic range free eggs, fresh herbs(oregano, basil, thyme, sage, parsley),  boiled African/Caribbean yam(great high in progesterone which will help prevent miscarriage), oils to cook with - grapeseed oil, sunflower oil or safflower oil. Organic berries - strawberry, cranberry, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries eat with hot cereal or make into a smoothie.

      Healthy foods: grapefruit, wild salmon or smoked fresh salmon(very necessary for those with cysts/pcos/fibroids/endometriosis due to the healthy fats to help reduce growths), zucchini, grass fed lamb, rage free chicken,  organic carrots, oysters, banana, millet,  organic apples, English cucumbers(from trader joes its very small but best), organic eggs, tomatoes, oranges, peppers, habanero(try to have them avid using too much hot sauce), pomegranates, avocadoes, broccoli, almonds, dark chocolate, brown rice (I love Uncle Ben's brown rice not too hard like other ones I have tried), Sesame seeds, walnuts, pumpkin seed, cashew, mushrooms, chickpeas(you can get hummus dip at the grocery store and it contains garlic, chickpeas & sesame read the ingredients), lobster, red snapper, halibut, rockfish and any good fish(avoid tilapia or mackerel). decaf green tea (avoid once pregnant as it reduces folic acid in body) Grass fed unsalted butter add about 1 tablespoon for cooking also.

SAMPLE MEAL 1:
Start with a glass of spring water with lime/lemon before breakfast. And a hot tea of red raspberry leaf.
Breakfast: Make with grass fed unsalted butter 1 tablespoon should be fine. Omelet with diced cauliflower, smoked salmon, tomatoes, onions, dash of ginger, green peppers and avocadoes. Serve with sourdough bread and a cup of milk or almond or nut milk(necessary for those suffering from cysts/fibroids/endometriosis)
Snack: Pita Crackers or pita chips or gluten free crackers(get some from trader joes with plain sea salt) with 5 tablespoon of hummus dip.
Water - filtered or spring water with lime/lemon in it. Pomegranate juice or fresh juice made with (carrots, Pineapple Core - The core is the center of the pineapple not the flesh, apples, celery).
Lunch: Turkey wrap with  turkey meat a slice of tomatoes, slice of avocado and spread of hummus/Hampton creek just mayo. Serve with 1 banana or a smoothie.
Smoothie: Banana, blackberries/strawberries, pineapples, almond milk and a little ginger.
Dinner: Brown rice/jollof rice/fried rice(made with uncle bens brown rice) topped with lamb/fish/goat/vegetables stew( add tomatoes, burdock, ginger, garlic, onions) and serve with steamed stir fried (broccoli, kale, mustard greens or turnip greens)

SAMPLE MEAL 2:
Start with a glass of spring water with lime/lemon before breakfast. And a hot tea of red raspberry leaf.
Breakfast: Cooked old fashioned rolled oats, kamut hot cereal by Bob's red mill, rolled spelt hot cereal, creamy rye flakes hot cereal, brown rice farina hot cereal. They are all by bob's red mill cost about $5 and can be found on vitacost.com. So cook with spring water(plain no lime or lemon) or almond milk sweeten with agave nectar. Serve with cut up fruit mix - watermelon, strawberries and blueberries.  Another cereal alternative is a bowl of healthy dry cereal with almond milk. Whole grain bagel with light cream cheese spread and fresh wild smoked salmon.

Snack: Unsalted plantain chips, veggie chips, almonds and banana, 1 cup of healthy popcorn mixed with nuts, pita chips.
Water - filtered or spring water with lime/lemon in it. Pomegranate juice.

Lunch: Sandwich meat a slice of tomatoes, slice of avocado and spread of hummus/Hampton creek just mayo. Serve with 1 banana or a smoothie. Stir fried rice with veggies and protein(wild salmon, grass fed lamb, free range chicken or turkey breasts).
Smoothie: Banana, blueberries, Pineapple Core - The core is the center of the pineapple, almond milk and a little ginger. Or Fresh juice with organic carrots, pineapples, ginger, apples and English cucumbers.
Dinner: Pasta topped with tomato sauce/any good sauce or herbs and serve with steamed stir fried (broccoli, kale, cauliflower, mustard greens or turnip greens) . Fufu made with (brown rice flour, teff flour, quinoa flour, kamut, spelt or dark rye) also called dumplings in Jamaican. Eat with lots of kale/mustard/turnip greens cooked with onions, touch of habanero, 1-2 tablespoon of palm oil/grapeseed oil add your choice of meat - fish/turkey/chicken/goat/lamb. You want your fufu to be about 1 cup and 3-4 cups of veggies with protein. Substitute fufu for spelt pasta/whole grain pasta/boiled or baked plantains.

    Other Lunch/Dinner Samples: Spaghetti squash with pesto, mushrooms and onions, and a baked parmesan+nut crusted chicken, Baked salmon with quinoa and roasted asparagus. Acorn squash stuffed with quinoa and veggies, and a side of  baked chicken or fish.

Cycle Days 1-13

In addition to eating healthy foods, concentrate on these below during cycle day 1-13 first half of your cycle.

• 6oz pomegranate juice mixed with 4oz spring water with lemon/lime: 1x/day, usually with dinner
• 6oz red raspberry leaf tea/ bacteria fighting tea/womens tea: 2x/day, mid-morning and mid-afternoon (this keeps me from grabbing a coffee during these times of day. It’s just a warm, cozy, herbal tea. I sweeten with local honey or agave nectar). Rotate between those teas on cycle 1-13. Cycle day 1 is when your period starts.
• Eat Yam African or Caribbean yams.  yams should only be eaten in the first half of the menstrual cycle, from menstruation until ovulation.  After ovulation, don’t eat lots of yams.  wild yam taken in the first two weeks of a menstrual cycle improves fertility by converting diosgenin into two other hormones essential for ovulation, luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone. 
• Add cinnamon to hot cereals especially for those with pcos or cysts.

Do a fertility massage is after the menstrual phase till ovulation phase (From day 6 to 14).  

Cycle Days 13-30

      * 10oz fresh  juice  organic carrots, ginger, 1 cup  Pineapple Core - The core is the center of the pineapple not the outer part, and apples 1x/day, usually with lunch or dinner

     * 

Entire Cycle/Daily

• 400iu Vitamin E: 1x/day, mid-morning
• Vitamin B Complex: 1x/day, mid-morning
• Folic acid once a day

FYI ON PINEAPPLES FOR IMPLANTATION:

  Eat the "Center thick middle part" and not the flesh around it.

If you are taking baby aspirin, a blood thinner, remember that pineapple is also a mild blood thinner and too much could lead to miscarriage. Ask your doctor before taking both.

Don’t start eating pineapple until after ovulation as it can actually inhibit pregnancy if taken too early as the acidity of pineapple can effect cervical mucous.

Cut up a whole pineapple, cut the CORE "CENTER MIDDLE PART" into 5 pieces and eat once piece daily starting the day after ovulation/IUI/IVF transfer.

If you don’t have a fresh core, eat one cup of pineapple meat a day once a day starting the day after ovulation/IUI/IVF transfer.

Canned pineapple has been heated which destroys the Bromelain so you have to eat fresh pineapple

Stop eating pineapple after a positive pregnancy test.

Supplements:
    While I'm not a fan of supplements. I would recommend taking just vitamin e, vitamin b complex and  folic acid. This can be taken by both the men/women. I avoid taking vitamins because I find my body doesn't really break down the iron so I just take those supplements and ensure I eat lots of healthy foods. L-Arginine is another supplement which may help improve fertility by increasing the production of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide dilates blood vessels and helps to increase blood flow to the uterus, ovaries, and genitals. Men or women.

Safe Sex Lubricant:
     Easiest way is drinking lots of water or grapefruit juice! Yes! lol it works 1 cup daily and you will be swimming in cervical mucus. Why is cervical mucus necessary? It helps the sperm travel from the vagina to the uterus, fallopian tube to meet with the egg. The more alkaline your CM(Cervical mucus is the more easier for conception), citrus fruits - lemon, lime, orange, grapefruit, green veggies and less dairy/cow meat/sugar & processed foods. Avoid grapefruit if on any blood thinner or any medication that can interfere with it.
   
   I would stay away from ky jelly or oils if you are dry down there and it hurts. I find foreplay helps and also using sperm friendly lubricants such as; pre seed, samsar conceive plus, yes baby lubricant. Any of those will help you feeling not so tight and ph water based. I do use pre seed when I feel dry but any of those listed works.
 
   If you think your cervical mucus is too thick, expectorant cough medicine can help make it thinner. Your choice of syrup will depend on where you live, but make sure the active ingredient is guaifenesin (ask at your local pharmacy or online). Use it only during the last few days 3 days before ovulation, and do not take more than the recommended daily dose indicated on the package.


TIPS TO AVOID MISCARRIAGE:
Doing all listed above helps with miscarriage. Also Herbs or  supplement below can help. Select one herb or supplement at a time. Consult with a physician before using.

Vitex
Vitex (Chaste Tree berry) has been traditionally used by midwives and herbalists in the first trimester of pregnancy to prevent miscarriage associated with low progesterone due to corpus luteum insufficiency. It can also be used in conjunction with progesterone cream.
While Vitex can be used to help with a threatened miscarriage due to low progesterone levels, it is best to begin taking it at least 3 months prior to conception. Also, we feel it is best to consider progesterone cream use to help maintain stable progesterone levels once pregnancy has occurred. Working with a healthcare practitioner once you are pregnant to help you keep your progesterone levels up is the wisest option at that point. Should you desire to continue using Vitex into pregnancy, please only do so under the supervised care of a skilled herbalist or midwife trained in herbal medicine.

Cramp Bark (Viburnum opulus)
Used traditionally as a preventative for recurrent miscarriage, this herb has been shown to reduce spasm of the uterine muscles and ovaries. Cramp bark works to relieve uterine irritation, relax the muscles, with specific action on the uterus. This herb slowly relaxes the nervous system as well. This combination of actions may help prevent miscarriage in women with a history of miscarriage.
  A teaspoon with 2 cups of hot water, steep remove herbs and drink.

  
Low progesterone during pregnancy may be a common cause of recurrent miscarriages. Progesterone is responsible for creating a healthy environment in the womb by creating and maintaining a healthy uterine lining. It also may reduce the chances of blood clots and immune system responses to the fetus as a foreign substance. It is the pregnancy hormone.
If you feel this might be your situation try to get your hormone levels tested before using progesterone cream, then get tested again to make sure your levels are high enough.

Maca is a nourishing food for the endocrine system, aiding the pituitary, adrenal, and thyroid glands (all involved in hormonal balance.) Maca has the ability to affect key hormones in both women and men without containing hormones itself.

Could you be zinc or vitamin e deficient?
Zinc and vitamin e is the most important mineral for the reproductive system when you want to prevent miscarriage. Zinc deficiency among many other things, impairs body’s ability to properly maintain pregnancy in women and produce healthy sperm in men.


DO A FERTILITY/WOMENS MASSAGE:

It should be practiced by all women not just those trying to conceive. Especially for those with fibroids, pcos, cysts and endometriosis.

Before commencing any of the massages, make sure your bladder is empty (you don’t feel like urinating)Also if you are eating before the massage, eat light meal and use a light oil for massage.

Regularly receiving fertility massage provides many benefits for the reproductive system. Some of the benefits are:

• Helps to reposition a tilted uterus
• Promotes hormonal balance and helps with blocked fallopian tubes
• Massage helps to break up scar tissue
• Helps to bring fresh blood to the uterus
• Helps to reduce stress & stress hormones
• Increases circulation to the uterus & cervix
• Improves endocrine system communication
• Encourages the liver to get rid of excess hormones
• Promotes hormonal balance by strengthening the hormonal feedback loop
• Helps the body to rid itself of old stagnant blood, clots and tissues

Is a fertility massage right for you? if you answer yes to any of the below then yes.

Are you experiencing any of the following?

PCOS Endometriosis Blocked Fallopian Tubes Blood clots during menstruation Ovarian Cysts Hormonal Imbalances Uterine Fibroids Unexplained Infertility High FSH levels Poor Egg Health

Ovarian Failure Stress from infertility Lack of menstruation Anovulation Excessive Mensuration Constipation Pain during ovulation Tilted uterus Scar tissue Gas

This is how your reproductive system looks like so light massage those areas

SEE BELOW ON AREAS TO DO MASSAGE WHERE THE ENTIRE HANDS ARE SHOWING

You want to massage the lower part of your belly button lightly anti clockwise including the sides. From where you see the tip of her thumb to the lower parts where her fingers are all that area.

Fertility Massage and Menstrual Cycle

The average length of female menstrual cycle is about 28-30 days.
These entire duration can be divided into four phases which are highlighted below:

1. Menstrual phase (From day 1 to 5)
2. Follicular phase (From day 1 to 13)
3. Ovulation phase (Day 14)
4. Luteal phase (From day 15 to 28)

For women Trying to Conceive,   Fertility massage should not be done during the luteal phase. This is to avoid the risk of miscarriage incase implantation occurs immediately after ovulation. 
The best time for a fertility massage is after the menstrual phase till ovulation phase (From day 6 to 14).  
This is because the egg is produced, developed and released during this time, and self fertility massage can help direct regular supply of oxygenated blood and even distribution of hormone towards the reproductive area.
Women who are not trying to conceive but are only preparing their body can engage in self fertility massage anytime during the menstrual cycle EXCEPT during the menstruation.

Femoral Fertility Massage Technique

This type of massage increases the blood flow to the pelvic organ providing extra nourishment to the uterus and ovaries
Massage of the femoral artery around the pelvic region is completely natural and is a technique that women can use without any external aid to boost their fertility and handle their menstrual cycles better.

1. Press down on the area between your thigh and your lower abdomen around your pelvic region with your both thumbs as shown above
2. Cover the area with the tips of the fingers and hold down with fairly heavy pressure to cease the blood flow in 30 – 40 seconds.
3. The pressure increases and forces the blood back into the pelvic region nourishing the organs.
4. Then in Releasing your fingers (pressure) you will feel a warm sensation run down your legs to the extremities.
5. Repeat on the opposite side.
6. Perform the massage three times on each side, twice a day, from when your period finishes and up to ovulation.

I hope I provided enough free resources to boost your chance of fertility. Feel free to leave a comment below and send me a message.

Natural Ways to deal with heavy bleeding Fibroids Fertility Infertility PMS Build Uterine Lining

 The herbs below not only address heavy bleeding but also builds uterine lining which is necessary for implantation. I used to bleed heavily until I changed my diet and started incorporating the herbs below as a tea. Heavy bleeding is most always linked to fibroids. So what causes heavy bleeding during menstrual cycle? Hormonal imbalance (estrogen or progesterone), blood thinners, pelvic inflammatory disease, Polyps or fibroids are usually the cause for heavy bleeding. And mostly common in African Americans. In literary terms it is called "menorrhagia".  Needing a new pad every half-hour to an hour is not normal, passing large clots and a period lasting more than 7 days. The amount of blood that a woman loses should be one that is manageable with most of today’s hygiene products.

       There are medications given to help with heavy bleeding. I strongly believe those with heavy bleeding should control their high levels of estrogen and stay away from estrogenic foods. The question is are you high in estrogen - do you have hair underneath your chin always? I am not a fan of medications so the herbs to help are below:

Wild Yam:

    I actually eat the wild yam which is sold in Caribbean or Mexican store in the usa. Grown in Mexico, Caribbean and Africa. The wild yam itself when cooked looks like potato. 

Wild yam root is a potent source of diosgenin, a chemical that resembles female sex hormones and was used in the manufacture of the first oral contraceptives. It supports healthy menstrual cycles by lessening pain and cramping. Wild yam's diosgenin, is a precursor in the chemical synthesis of progesterone, a hormone whose numerous functions include uterine health and warding off PMS.

Raspberry Leaf
   This leaf is great for uterine cramps, It's astringent properties stop excessive bleeding and recommended during pregnancy to tone the uterus.

Ladys Mantle:
    In herbalism, lady's mantle is commonly used to prevent and treat menstrual cramps, excessive menstrual bleeding, endometriosis, and uterine fibroids. Proponents of herbal and folk remedies may also recommend lady's mantle tea for muscle spasms, diarrhea, nausea and certain gastrointestinal disorders.
Sage:
   Yes the same sage you cook with for turkey is wonderful for heavy menstrual bleeding and hot flashes.

Burdock:
   Burdock helps to cleanse the body from the inside out and is myost useful in those conditions that can be traced back to liver disorders or a general overload of toxins in the system. The liver and kidneys control the hormone system. So it is essential to treat the kidney and liver also.

Dandelion:

  It is great for the liver - the major organ that helps rid the body of toxins and excess hormones. it also benefits the female reproductive system by helping to regulate and normalize hormone production.

Juicing:

    There are so many great benefits to juicing and you should incorporate them into your daily life. That means no sodas, white starches, junk foods and fast foods.

More veggies like - amaranth, avocado, okra, lettuce, onions, watercress, zucchini, squash, olives, mushrooms except shitake, turnip greens, kale, bell peppers, cucumbers, ginger.

Fruits: Apples, bananas, cherries, Soursop also called guanabana(highly recommended), tamarind, pear, peach, prickly pear, plums, papaya, prunes, raisins, dates, berries no cranberries, figs, limes, mango, melons, orange - sevile or sour is best and currants.

Grains/flours/bread  - hempseed, kamut, rye, spelt, tef, amaranth, fonio, wild rice

Nuts/Seeds - Hempseed, raw sesame, walnuts,  Brazilian nuts

Oils - Grapeseed oil, Sesame, Avocado, Hempseed oil.

Sweetener - Agave syrup and date sugar

DIY HERBAL TEA BLEND FOR HEAVY BLEEDING/FIBROIDS/HORMONE BALANCE

1 teaspoon raspberry leaf

1/2 teaspoon lady's mantle

1/2 teaspoon burdock 

1 teaspoon dandelion

1 stick cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger

Boil hot water, use 4 cups of hot water pour in the ingredients. Then cover in a pot.  Let it steep for at least 5 minutes. Sieve the herbs and drink. You can keep the tea in a clean glass bottle with cap(I love the ones Ikea sells for like $5), sweeten with agave nectar and drink. Drink a week before your period and during your period.

If you try this blend and it works for you please leave a comment. I would love to hear from you. This blend is also great for infertility as the herbs will tone the uterus and cleanse kidney/liver.

Happy Drinking!

Too Lazy to make your own? Click here to purchase

    

GREAT HEALTHY & FERTILITY FOODS

So if you are planning on getting married, just got married and plannig to have kids. Add these foods to your diet.

Water

- To maintain optimal health and proper reproductive functions, one must remain optimally hydrated. Filtered and natural spring water are the safest choices

Yellow and Orange Vegetables

-Yellow and orange vegetables contain an abundance of beta carotene, an antioxidant, which has been shown to maintain hormonal balance and ward off miscarriage. Carrots, apricots, cantaloupe, grapefruits, lemon, mangoes, nectarines, papayas, oranges, golden kiwifruit, peaches, butternut squash, pineapples, yellow beets, yellow peppers, yellow potatoes, pumpkin, yellow tomatoes, yellow winter squash, rutabagas.

Plant Protein
Protein from plant sources like beans, peas, and peanuts has been associated with increased fertility, as opposed to protein from red meat and poultry. Beans are also high in iron, another fertility-helper. No need to become a vegetarian, but do try to limit meat to occasional small portions
Broccoli and Cabbage

- Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage contain a phytonutrient called DIM that helps with estrogen metabolism. They are also known to prevent fibroids and endometriosis in women.
Carrots, peas and sweet potatoes - Containing beta-carotene, these veggies will help regulate a menstrual cycle, thus improving chances for conception.

Strawberries, blueberries, oranges, papaya, kiwi and cantaloupe










- Full of vitamin C and antioxidants, these fruits offer healthful reproductive benefits to women trying to conceive.

Meat, chicken, fish, eggs and dairy products (Protein)

- Amino acids in protein are vital for viable egg production and for making LH and FSH which are important fertility hormones. Scientific research also suggests women who get more of their protein from plants and less from animal sources have fewer overall ovulatory issues. Be certain to monitor mercury level intake from seafood as high levels can be toxic.


Whole grains
Whole grains such as oats, brown rice, whole wheat and quinoa are complex carbohydrates and so not only give you lots of energy for baby-making by releasing sugar into your blood slowly and evenly, but also contain an abundance of B and E vitamins that are essential for cellular reproduction, hormonal balance and the production of healthy ova and sperm.

Oily fish


Oily fish such as salmon, mackerel and sardines are the best source of essential fatty acids (EFAs) omega-3 and omega-6 which play an important role in regulating reproductive functioning, improving blood flow and enhancing sperm quality and mobility. Flaxseed oil is a good EFA alternative for those who don't eat fish. avocados, nuts, sesame and pumpkin seeds also has omega-3.

Full fat dairy

Research has found that women who eat at least one portion of full fat dairy a day are significantly less likely to suffer from fertility problems that those who consistently go for low fat or non dairy options. Dairy products are also a great source of calcium which is important in the development and maintenance of the nervous system, bones and blood.

     According to Dr Gary Steinman, lead scientist in a medical study of twins, women who have a milk-based diet are more likely to conceive twins naturally than their vegan counterparts. It is thought that natural properties in milk may stimulate the ovaries, encouraging the production of multiple eggs for conception.

Garlic


Although not typically known as a food for romance, garlic contains an abundance of fertility boosting nutrients and can easily be neutralised with parsley.  Must be cooked and not eaten raw. It's a great source of the mineral selenium which is thought to enhance male fertility and help prevent the chromosome breakage that may play a role in early miscarriage. Garlic also contains vitamin B6 which helps to regulate hormones and strengthens the immune system.

Lean red meat

Lean red meat is a great source of iron which helps to prevent anaemia, decreases the risk of ovulatory infertility and plays a role in the production and function of red blood cells. Red meat is also a good source of vitamin B12 which is essential in the maintenance and development of the nervous system. If preferably buy organic and non-processed.

Honey


Honey has been used to enhance fertility throughout history as it is incredibly rich in the minerals and amino acids that nourish the reproductive system and stimulate ovarian function. It's considered by many to be a fertility boosting super food.

Greens

Spinach and other leafy greens such as - turnips, okazi, waterleaf, collards, mustard greens, okra are an excellent source of folic acid which is important in optimising sperm production, facilitating regular, healthy ova production and helping to prevent neural tube defects during early pregnancy. It is also a great source of iron and vitamin C which helps to enhance sperm quality by protecting the DNA stored within it from damage.

Oysters


It is the abundance of zinc found in this seafood delicacy that gives it its fertility boosting qualities.  Pumpkin seed also contains lots of zinc. Zinc is often considered to be the most important fertility nutrient as it has been shown to help with both healthy sperm and egg production. If oysters aren't your thing, zinc can also be found in baked beans, eggs, nuts, whole grains and pumpkin seeds. I purchase smoked can oysters from Trader Joes  about $2, use them with greens and love them with stuffing.

Chillies


The question is"Can you handle the heat". These certainly 'spice' things up in the fertility department by increasing the flow of blood around the body, ensuring that the reproductive system gets a healthy supply. Chillies also stimulate endorphin production which means more fertility boosting, stress releasing, happy hormones circulate around your body and are also an excellent source of vitamin C which helps with iron absorption.

Vitamin E.


Avocado, Extra Virgin Olive Oil& Palm oil provides a rich source of vitamin E which is a powerful antioxidant and an essential fertility nutrient for both men and women as it improves the viability of sperm and helps to regulate both ovulation and the production of cervical mucus. It is also an excellent source of unsaturated fats which are essential for healthy hormone functioning. Can also be found in almonds, peanuts, 1 kiwi fruit and wheat germ oil.

Pomegranate juice:

Another powerful player in antioxidant circles is the pomegranate. According to research in mice, pomegranate juice can boost sperm count and quality. What better reasons are there to add this juice to your man’s meal? It's also great for women. It helps build thicker uterine lining to help implantation.
Wild yams:







Some experts think that this staple contains a substance that may help stimulate ovulation. In fact, populations that eat a lot of wild yams have a high rate of twins. This research is based on an African tribe -the Yorubas especially in Nigeria, that uses yams as a main staple of their diet and produces a large percentage of twins. Though the exact cause isn't known, researchers believe a chemical in the yams increases the likelihood of hyperovulation.
When it comes to fertility foods, this one may have double the effect! Sweet potatoes are not yams. Cassava, african yams, chinese yams, yellow yams, white yams. Can be found at asian, carribean and african grocery stores. The flour  is also sold at such grocery stores - Used to make pounded yam and cassava fufu. Yams must be peeled and boiled just like boiling potatoes.  I'll post a recipe later on.

Berries:

Blueberries and raspberries are particularly packed with antioxidants, which help prevent damage and aging to your body’s cells — and this includes cells in your reproductive system — namely, your eggs. So a diet that’s rich in berries may help keep your eggs healthy and increase their shelf life.

Pineapple:

 

The enzyme -Bromelain found in the core of the pineapple helps with implantation n women alone. And also improves ureine lining. The core is where most of the bromelain is. However do not eat too much of it/drink too much as it may cause uterine contractions. I usually blend 1/2 cup with 1 banana, 1 cup organic strawberries and 1 teaspoon almond butter with ice and little water. Unripe pineapple is poisonous and can cause extreme diarrhea. Most women take them from day 1 of your cycle till pregnancy is confirmed.

Green tea













Drinking green tea may even help not only with female fertility, but with male fertility problems as well. Some green tea advocates suggest that green tea may help with low sperm count, and even with sperm motility. It helps in increasing cervical mucus in women, which helps sperm fertilize.  Green tea also contains strong antioxidants called polyphenols that cleanse your system. This will improve not only your fertility but your digestive system as well.
Other health benefits of green tea that some people have suggested include:
- Increased success at weight loss attempts. Makes flat stomach.
- Reduced risk of heart disease and heart problems
- Reduces risk of various types of cancer
- improves cholesterol levels, both lowering the bad cholesterol and raising the good
- Help prevent tooth decay when used alongside a regular oral hygiene regimen
- Increases the overall effectiveness of the autoimmune system.
As few as two cups of green tea per day may not only be able to help with conception, but may provide you many other health benefits as well.

Must be taken for women on cycle day 1-until ovulation. Do not take after ovulation as it may cause uterine contractions and if pregnant, can deplete body of folic acid.
I would suggest taking decaffeinated green tea. 

Folic Acid


Folic acid, also called folate or folacin, is one of the B vitamins, also known as B9. It is a vital raw material for production of red blood cells, as well as norepinephrine and serotonin (chemical components of the nervous system). Folic acid also helps to synthesize genetic material in every cell of the body and normalize brain function. Taking folic acid before conception reduces the risk of neural-tube defects such as spina bifida in babies in the womb. Children and adults both require folic acid in order to produce healthy red blood cells and prevent anemia

The recommended daily intake of folic acid for all women of childbearing age is at least 400 micrograms (mcg), or 0.4 milligrams (mg). During pregnancy, the recommended dose jumps up to 600 – 800 mcg, or 0.6 – 0.8 mg, a day. Most prenatal vitamins contain the appropriate dosage of folic acid along with other vitamins that will help you stay healthy
Foods containing Folic acid - Leafy green vegetables are a good source of folate, lentils, wheat germ, beans, peas, egg yolks, banana, orange juice, cantaloupe, raomaine lettuce, fortified grain products, spears, asparagus, papaya, broccoli, cantaloupe, eggs and  canned wild salmon. And manufacturers are now required by the FDA to add folic acid to enriched cereal grain products such as flour, pasta, and rice. So replace the regular cereals with these and add a bowl of fresh salad to your daily diet.

Supplements that can help
Pre Seed

It is not a food, just a lubricant.  About $18 for 8 applications.
Approximately 11 million couples in the US, are trying to conceive (TTC). On average, a couple only has a 20% chance of becoming pregnant each month during the woman’s fertile time. Intercourse on demand at ovulation can lead to anxiety and increased vaginal dryness --as can many fertility medications. In fact, 75% of women report an increase in their frequency of dryness when TTC.
 Unfortunately, “everyday” personal lubricants can damage sperm and keep them from swimming normally. This includes all the leading lubricants and even saliva /mineral oil/ ky or water. Numerous medical studies have shown that these products should not be used when you are ready to become pregnant
   Traditional lubricants harm sperm because they have the wrong pH or osmolality (ion/salt concentration) or because they have ingredients in them such as glycerol (glycerin) which is toxic to sperm, especially at body temperatures.

  Pre~Seed is the first ‘fertility-friendly’ Personal Lubricant that mimics natural body secretions to relieve vaginal dryness while providing an optimal sperm environment. Its moisture is delivered in the same pH , osmolality and viscosity (thickness) as fertile cervical mucus. Pre~Seed does not harm sperm or embryos, and is less irritating to women than the leading lubricants.
A little goes a long way when using it. There are so many positive reviews on pre seed and couples getting pregnant. you can go to their site for more information.  http://www.preseed.com/  It can be purchased at amazon, cvs, walgreens, drugstore.com, target, pregnancystore.com, early-pregnancy-tests.com. If trying to purchase internationally contact preseed directly for referrals.

Vitabiotics Pregnacare Conception for Her


Price: £9.95 About $15.44
The makers of Pregnacare^®, the UK’s leading pregnancy supplement, have developed Pregnacare^® Conception to provide advanced nutritional support when trying for a baby.

Ideal for all women to help build nutritional stores for before conception, the formula includes key nutritional elements:

Folic Acid – Pregnacare^® Conception provides 400mcg folic acid, the exact level recommended by the UK Department of Health for all women who are trying to conceive. As well as the healthy development of the foetal neural tube, folic acid may also play a role in conception, and is required in the first days and weeks of life, before you are even aware that you are pregnant.

Antioxidant minerals with natural vitamin E – Important co-factors in antioxidant enzymes, to help protect genetic material from free radical damage. Vitamin E is an essential nutrient, important for helping maintain healthy skin, nerves, heart and circulation, muscles and red blood cells. Pregnacare^® Conception contains a low recommended dietary intake of 20mg. This is present in the natural form which is better absorbed by the mother and transported to the foetus than synthetic vitamin E.

Inositol – Inositol may help support ovarian function and influence fertility. It is involved in the cell signalling pathway which influences fertilization and cell growth.

L-Arginine – Well known as a precursor in nitric oxide (NO) metabolism, L-arginine can influence release of the egg from the ovaries (follicular release) as well as healthy follicular blood flow and implantation.

N-acetyl cysteine – A precursor of glutathione, an important antioxidant in the body. N-acetyl cysteine is also important for healthy cervical secretions.

Vitamin B12 – Part of the B complex group of vitamins, it has been found that B12 supplementation can help to maintain healthy ovarian function and reproductive health.
  As with any medication please consult a physician before taking.

Vitabiotics Wellman Conception  Price: £9.95  about $15.44


Wellman^® Conception recognises that men have an important influence on conception and have distinct reproductive health needs of their own. Many men now recognise the importance of getting themselves in shape and adopting a healthier lifestyle when trying for a baby. The advanced formula combines a potent blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals with amino acids, L-Carnitine, L-Arginine and folic acid which have been specifically chosen for their role in male reproductive function and health.
Wellman^® Conception should be taken daily as an integral part of an overall healthy lifestyle, ideally three months before trying to conceive, while, at the same time, Pregnacare^® Conception has been specially designed for your partner with vitamins, essential minerals and 400mcg folic acid
The formula also includes other key nutrients that are ideal for all men when trying for a baby with their partner:
Peruvian MACA Extract – Sourced from the Peruvian herbaceous plant, this organic source Maca contains important nutrients including amino acids and fatty acids, which are essential for male reproductive health.

Co-Enzyme Q10 – Acts as an antioxidant and energy-releasing agent and is thought to stabilize the integrity of the sperm flagella.

Folic Acid – Studies suggest that supplementation of folic acid along with zinc supports sperm health.

Lycopene – Highly regarded for its exceptional antioxidant properties, nutritional studies have shown intake of Lycopene linked to prostate health.

Siberian Ginseng Extract – Widely used to help maintain overall male vitality.

Pine Bark Extract ( 95% Proanthocyanidins ) – Highly effective antioxidants which may play a role in protecting sperm. Free radicals (responsible for oxidative cell) are said to be responsible for 40 percent of sperm damage.
You can also purchase Pregnacare His&Her conception


Price: £17.95. About $28.
  As with any medication please consult a physician before taking.
You can purchase all vitabiotics products recommened on their site. http://www.vitabiotics.com/ They also ship internationally and to the USA.


In general when trying for a baby it pays to go for good quality, unprocessed foods as these are likely to be much richer in vitamins, minerals and nutrients and also freer from pesticides and added oestrogens that may disrupt reproductive functioning in both men and women. By supplementing a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle with the foods listed above you will help to ensure you have all the nutrients you need to ensure your reproductive system is in optimum condition. Also remember to take folic acid rich food You can also check on my pre pregnancy cookbook recommendations -on my blog for December. Can be purchased at amazon for cheaper price and has lots of recipes. I highly recommend "take charge of your fertility book" by Toni Wesschler, to know you peak ovulation time and know your body well. Not every woman ovulates on 14 day. Chart, take your temperature with a basal body thermometer if you can.

  Along with food and supplements, prayer works wonders. God is able to do what we cannot, give all your cares to him and trust that he is able!