Health store help

Looking for advice on natural health and wellbeing? Your local independent health stores can offer a wealth of knowledge and expertise. This issue we speak to Clair Whitty and Davina Dowling from the Natural Health Store in Wexford

In terms of fertility, a holistic approach looks at the whole person and gives the greatest chance of success by getting the body into the best shape physically and emotionally. “A good starting point on the journey towards childbirth is a basic health check-up including fasting blood tests,” says Davina Dowling. “This test gives a good indication of general health and can identify levels of key nutrients relevant to fertility.

Nutrients to help with conception
The most commonly known nutrient when planning to conceive is folic acid, which contributes to foetal growth during pregnancy. A woman can take this as part of a pre-natal multivitamin which would include a range of vitamins and minerals such as zinc, selenium, iron, B vitamins, vitamin C and vitamin D.

It is recommended that men supplement with omega-3 essential fatty acids as semen is rich in prostaglandins which are produced from these fats. Men with poor sperm quality, abnormal sperm, poor motility or low count, have inadequate levels of these beneficial prostaglandins. Zinc is the most widely studied nutrient in terms of fertility for both men and women.

It is found in high concentrations in the sperm and an essential component of genetic material. It is worth investing in a top-quality male multivitamin combined with an omega-3 fish oil supplement for the preconception period.

Supplements can be very effective in rebalancing hormones as well as increasing chances of getting and staying pregnant. Even the best diet in the world may not contain all the nutrients needed for fertility. This can potentially become even more important if either partner is vegetarian or vegan.

A balanced diet
A healthy diet for both partners is crucial to a successful pregnancy. Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruit and vegetables (especially green leafy veg), nuts and seeds, wholegrains, oily fish, eggs and lean protein. Unpasteurised foods should be avoided including creamy cheese as well as food made with raw eggs.

There is now a lot of evidence to show that caffeine, particularly in the form of coffee, decreases fertility especially with regard to sperm health. Alcohol also inhibits the body’s absorption of nutrients such as zinc, which is one of the most important minerals for male fertility.

The mind-body connection
Research shows the interconnection between the mind and the body with high levels of stress associated with decreased fertility.

Egg and sperm quality can decrease with age, which can lead to conception challenges and miscarriages. Stress management is vital; prioritising sleep can help the body to recover from mental and physical stressors of the day.

This includes establishing and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, dimming lights before bed and unplugging from electronics at night.

Regularly engaging in low impact physical activity can be a great way to quiet the mind while trying to conceive. If either partner is feeling stressed, it is important to talk to family or friends to get the support needed rather than avoiding social contact.

Other considerations
Many people use acupuncture to improve their physical and emotional health when trying to conceive. It can stimulate blood flow to the uterus which can positively affect the menstrual cycle and ovulation.

Environmental pollution, pesticides and xenoestrogens including plastics and parabens in body care products can all have a negative impact on hormonal health and other health issues. It is important to limit exposure as much as possible and be aware of their impact.”