Lifestyle factors can impact male fertility

Getting enough sleep, reducing stress levels and improving diets can help boost a couple's chances of conceiving, experts say.

While many women are aware of ways to optimize their likelihood of falling pregnant, men often ignore the role of male fertility in the process of natural conception.

Yvonne Bishop-Weston, nutritionist for First Response, said that low numbers of sperm can be due to high stress hormones, which reduce the body's ability to stimulate sperm production.

She explained: "Poor motility or ability to swim prevent the sperm from reaching the egg. If sperm tests show no specific problem areas, but borderline levels, general nutritional fertility support can help maximize quality and quantity."

Adopting a diet rich in magnesium, antioxidants and low in saturated animal fats can help enhance male fertility, she added.

According to the Office for National Statistics, in 2008, there were increases in fertility rates for all age groups compared to the previous year.

Source

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50 Foods Every Pregnant Woman Should Eat

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Most people are already very familiar with the foods that pregnant women must avoid – alcohol, excess caffeine, raw seafood, and the like – but few take pause to think about what they should consume. Experts generally recommend that pregnant women stick with the portions recommended by the USDA’s Food Pyramid guidelines, with specific boosts to certain nutrients such as iron, folic acid, fiber, Vitamin C, protein, calcium, Vitamin A, magnesium, and a few others.

These extremely valuable substances help both mother and child healthy and safe by promoting blood flow, building tissues in the brain and other organs, fortifying the immune system, strengthening bones and teeth, allowing for better vitamin absorption, and numerous other benefits. The following foods ought to find their way into a pregnancy diet, even if some of them must be ingested in moderation or within certain parameters.

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Vitamin E can increase the risk of heart defect in babies

Expectant mothers have been warned that taking vitamin E during pregnancy can increase the risk of their babies developing heart defects.

Consuming as little as three-quarters of the daily recommended amount of the vitamin can increase the risk of a child being born with a heart abnormality by up to nine times, a new study found.

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Cobalamin (Vitamin B12) Supplementation for Infertile Couples?

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In a cross-sectional study involving 171 couples visiting an infertility clinic, results indicate a high prevalence of cobalamin deficiency.

Mean cobalamin levels were 259.2 pg/mL in men and 275.1 pg/mL in women, with 35.5% of men and 23.3% of women showing cobalamin deficiency.

Additionally, 39% of all men with an abnormal semen analysis showed cobalamin deficiency.

Thus, the authors conclude, "This study questions whether higher rates of male infertility in Israel are partially ascribable to cobalamin deficiency. Recommendation for supplementation in both males and females to achieve high-normal levels of cobalamin would be prudent."

Reference: "Prevalence of low serum cobalamin in infertile couples," Pront R, Elstein D, et al, Andrologia, 2009; 41(1): 46-50. (Address: Gaucher Clinic, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel). Source

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Beef up your zinc levels and give your fertility a boost

It is well known that shellfish is rich in zinc, the mineral essential for a host of bodily functions, from muscle-building to a healthy immune response. But did you know you can get your daily dose from a portion of beef steak?

'Lack of zinc is linked to wide-ranging health problems, including impaired immunity and fertility,' says Professor John Beattie, of the University of Aberdeen. 'It may even encourage the development of heart disease.'

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-1203639/Beef-zinc-levels--fertility-boost.html#ixzz0NJvHoRTN

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Increasing female fertility

If you have been trying to get pregnant but have been unsuccessful, there are a number of things that can be done to increase your chances if conception. While it takes most women an average of 6 months to 1 year to become pregnant, female fertility may be enhanced by simply living a healthier lifestyle.

1. No more caffeine.
2. Stop smoking.
3. Reduce alcohol intake.
4. Take your vitamins. Especially vitamin E.

Read more: http://www.examiner.com/x-12286-Houston-Pregnancy-Examiner~y2009m7d20-Increasing-female-fertility-naturally

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Healthy eating can help perk up fertility

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Being overweight, or obese, for example, reduces both male and female fertility. In women, it can affect ovulation.

Being underweight can also impact on fertility, particularly for women, who will not ovulate if they are severely underweight.

Smoking not only affects a person’s general and long-term health, it can also affect fertility and stress can reduce sexual desire, reducing the frequency of sexual intercourse. Severe stress may also affect female ovulation and can limit sperm production.

Nutrition – what people are eating – also has an impact on fertility. Many of us will be aware of the importance of folic acid for women trying to conceive, or that zinc is good for healthy sperm, but the role of nutrition in fertility goes beyond this.

Read more: http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/health-news/2009/05/25/healthy-eating-can-help-perk-up-fertility-91466-23702339/

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The importance of folate, zinc and antioxidants

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The importance of folate, zinc and antioxidants in the pathogenesis and prevention of subfertility

UV radiation destroys folic acid, a precursor for folate, the lack of which may result in birth defects.

Current treatments of subfertile couples are usually empiric, as the true cause of subfertility often remains unknown. Therefore, we outline the role of nutritional and biochemical factors in reproduction and subfertility. A literature search was performed using MEDLINE, Science Direct and bibliographies of published work with both positive and negative results.

The studies showed that folate has a role in spermatogenesis. In female reproduction, folate is also important for oocyte quality and maturation, implantation, placentation, fetal growth and organ development. Zinc has also been implicated in testicular development, sperm maturation and testosterone synthesis.

In females, zinc plays a role in sexual development, ovulation and the menstrual cycle. Both folate and zinc have antioxidant properties that counteract reactive oxygen species (ROS). Thiols, such as glutathione, balance the levels of ROS produced by spermatozoa and influence DNA compaction and the stability and motility of spermatozoa. Oocyte maturation, ovulation, luteolysis and follicle atresia are also affected by ROS.

After fertilization, glutathione is important for sperm nucleus decondensation and pronucleus formation. Folate, zinc, ROS and thiols affect apoptosis, which is important for sperm release, regulation of follicle atresia, degeneration of the corpus luteum and endometrial shedding.

Therefore, the concentrations of these nutrients may have substantial effects on reproduction. In conclusion, nutritional and biochemical factors affect biological processes in male and female reproduction. Further research should identify pathways that may lead to improvements in care and treatment of subfertility.

Read more: http://scienceblogs.com/gnxp/2009/04/folate_fertility_skin_color.php?utm_source=sbhomepage&utm_medium=link&utm_content=channellink

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Male Infertility Treatment Boosts Sperm Count

MONDAY, April 6 (HealthDay News) -- A hormone-antioxidant combination therapy appears to improve sperm count and motility in infertile men, according to an Egyptian study.

The research included 60 men eligible for infertility treatment. They were randomly selected to take either the combination treatment of clomiphene citrate and vitamin E or a placebo for six months. By the end of the study, their partner's pregnancy rate was about 37 percent among men who'd taken the combination therapy, compared with 13 percent for those in the placebo group.

Read more: http://www.forbes.com/feeds/hscout/2009/04/06/hscout625605.html

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Having a Baby: Vitamin D Deficiency Is Tied to C-Sections

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Vitamin D deficiency may increase the likelihood of having a Caesarean section, a new study has found.

At the turn of the 20th century, according to background information in the report, deformed bones in the pelvis often led to a C-section, a problem that virtually disappeared with the vitamin D fortification of milk and other foods. But this study, published online Dec. 23 in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, suggests that vitamin D deficiency in pregnancy is still a problem.

The researchers studied 253 births at a Boston hospital from 2005 to 2007. After controlling for other variables, the scientists found that women with low blood levels of vitamin D were almost four times as likely to have an emergency C-section as those with normal levels. Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with muscle weakness and high blood pressure, which might help explain the finding.

Dr. Michael Holick, a professor of medicine at Boston University and the senior author of the study, offered straightforward advice for pregnant women. “Take a thousand-unit supplement of vitamin D, available at any pharmacy, on top of any prenatal vitamins you’re taking, so that you’re getting 1,400 units a day,” he said. “There is no downside to doing this.”

Source: http://www.nytimes.com/2008/12/30/science/30baby.html?_r=1

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At Sharkeys Healing Centre "Menopausal" Woman Creates Baby Naturally with Own Eggs

41 year old woman told by several doctors that she was in menopause and could not create a pregnancy, gives birth after natural herbal treatment.

New York, NY, December 10, 2008 --(PR.com)-- Anyone who is dealing with fertility issues knows that the kiss of death from a fertility specialist is high FSH. If your FSH is higher than 10 it is likely that your doctor will tell you that you can't have children, you are past your used by date or you don't have many or any eggs left.

A 41 year old woman in Australia had an FSH of 150 and was told by several doctors she was in menopause. After 4 months on a program at www.naturalfertility.com the US site for Sharkeys Healing Centre run by Herbalist Stacey Roberts and other naturopaths, this woman lowered her FSH to 7 and became pregnant with her child, delivering a healthy baby 9 months later.

Recently at Sharkeys Healing Centre a 47 year old gave birth to her first child after being on the internet program at www.naturalfertility.com

With nearly 5000 babies born to most couples who were told they wouldn't conceive, www.naturalfertility.com serves couples all over the world to help them address the issues that could be keeping them from conceiving. Australia's Babymaker, Stacey Roberts says, "its not uncommon for us to hear that a woman older than 35 is in a high risk group and is not likely to conceive. We have proven 1000's of times over that this is not necessarily true. We support couples trying to become pregnant naturally or through assisted reproductive technologies."

Contact Information: Sharkeys Healing Centre Stacey Roberts, phone: 414 455 5454
email: info@naturalfertility.com website: naturalfertility.com in Australia phone: 07 5527 2248

Source: http://www.pr.com/press-release/121056

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Pregnant or Thinking About It? 10 Prenatal Tips

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Advice from the experts can help keep a developing baby safe and on track

From conception to delivery, a fetus is at the mercy of its environment. A mother-to-be has more control over her internal chemistry than she might think, and her odds of having a healthy baby will be much improved if she follows these 10 tips.

1. Take steps even before you're pregnant
2. Don't delay an OB visit
3. Write down all meds
4. Don't drink
5. Don't smoke
6. Monitor the scales
7. Eat Smart
8. Get Moving
9. Don't get vitamin-happy
10. Check around the house

Full story: http://health.usnews.com/articles/health/womens-health/2008/11/20/pregnant-or-thinking-about-it-10-prenatal-tips.html

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Vitamin B12 deficiency, infertility & recurrent fetal loss

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OBJECTIVE: To examine the relationship of infertility to recurrent fetal loss in patients who were vitamin B12 deficient.

STUDY DESIGN: The obstetric histories of 14 patients presenting with 15 episodes of vitamin B12 deficiency were analyzed. Infertility (two to eight years) had been present in four episodes, and recurrent fetal loss was a feature in 11.

RESULTS: In six episodes, periods of recurrent fetal loss were followed by periods of infertility greater than one year.

CONCLUSION: Hypercoagulability due to raised homocysteine levels may lead to fetal loss when vitamin B12 deficiency first develops. A more prolonged deficiency results in infertility by causing changes in ovulation or development of the ovum or changes leading to defective implantation.

PMID: 11304860 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Source: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11304860

Related Articles
• Clinical B12 deficiency in one case of recurrent spontaneous pregnancy loss.
[Clin Chem Lab Med. 2003]
• Low Vitamin B(12) level as a risk factor for very early recurrent abortion.
[Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol. 2002]

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East West Essentials Delivers Successful Female Fertility Kit to Hopeful Mothers

LOS ANGELES, July 22, 2008 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- East West Essentials, a leader in optimal fertility supplements, is offering their highly successful Female Fertility Kit online to customers worldwide. The 30-day supplement program, developed by renowned fertility specialist Dr. Jeanne Wilson, Ph.D, L.Ac., is now available through the company website at www.eastwestessentials.com .

In the United States this year, between seven to nine million couples will confront infertility related issues. East West Essentials' Female Fertility Kit provides women with a safe, natural, high quality supplemental program that achieves real clinical results. It can help women retain reproductive health, create an environment to enhance fertility, reduce the risk of complications during pregnancy and support the growth of healthy babies.

Dr. Wilson's approach combines proven Eastern and Western medical techniques to enhance a patient's reproductive health and chance for a healthy baby. With success rates between 60 and 70 percent in her clinics, she has created a supplemental program that supplies specific nutritional assistance that is designed to increase each patient's ability to conceive.

"I've been in practice for a long time, and I take the success of my patients very personally," said Dr. Wilson. "The East West Essentials' Female Fertility Kit has been developed for patients that struggle to have a family."

The Fertility Kit has enjoyed success in the lives of medical professionals as well. "I was introduced to East West supplements by an Ob/Gyn who recommended it for my pregnancy," said Dr. Shadiar Ohadi, a Family Practitioner from Burbank, California. "I recommend it to my patients quite often because I had such a wonderful experience."

East West Essentials' clinically proven Female Fertility Kit addresses a body that is out of balance due to overwork, stress, exhaustion and lack of nutrients in the diet. Through the use of vitamins, minerals, fatty acids and other fertility enhancing nutrients, this kit provides fundamental support to return a healthy balance to a woman's body. Each kit is tested and examined for quality assurance, and East West Essentials' Female Fertility Kit goes above and beyond FDA standards.

East West Essentials' Female Fertility Kit can be obtained both domestically and internationally through referral by leading Ob/Gyns and reproductive endocrinologists, as well as IVF doctors. The kit can also be purchased online at http://www.eastwestessentials.com/ , toll free at 800-914-0919, or over the counter at available pharmacies.

Source: http://www.primenewswire.com/newsroom/news.html?d=146796

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Nutrition as complimentary therapy for infertility

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OVER the past 20 years, fertility problems have increased dramatically. At least, 25 per cent of couples planning a baby will have trouble conceiving, and more and more couples are turning to fertility treatments to help them have family.

Nutrition is not just a complimentary therapy, it is something we do to our body on daily basis. So, it makes sense that if we intend to produce a child, we ensure that we give that child the best possible start in life by eating the best quality foods we can afford. It takes about three months for a sperm to develop and three months for an egg to ripen, so we should ensure that we start this healthy diet and lifestyle before we plan to conceive.

Though it goes without saying that a healthy diet is crucial to a successful pregnancy and a healthy baby, many people are unaware of the fact that diet can help to correct hormone imbalances that may affect one's ability to conceive. From medical point of view, infertility is believed to be caused by the following factors and in these proportions: ovulatory failure (20 per cent), tubal damage (15 per cent), endometriosis (five per cent), problems (26 per cent), and unexplained (30 per cent).

If the mathematics does not add up, it is because many couples experience more than one problem when trying to conceive. For example, one may suffer from endometriosis, but the partner may also have a low sperm count. Interestingly, the most common cause of infertility is "unexplained," which means that following thorough investigations, doctors can find no specific or identifiable medical problem at the root.

But this is where a natural approach can come into play. If a couple fails to become pregnant, there is obviously something causing the problem. It is no good labeling infertility "unexplained." The answer is to look deeper - at lifestyle sectors, nutritional deficiencies and even emotional elements (Marilyn Glenville 2008).

Zinc is probably the most important fertility nutrient. It is responsible for hundreds of enzyme systems, many of which affect sexual performance and fertility. After fertilisation has occurred, the embryo cells need to divide and grow and zinc is absolutely vital for this process. Zinc deficiency can increase the risk of miscarriage and low birth weight babies.

Zinc is the most widely studied nutrient in terms of fertility for both men and women. It is an essential component of genetic material and a zinc deficiency can cause chromosome changes in either the man or the woman, leading to reduce fertility and an increased risk of miscarriage. Zinc is necessary for the body to "attract and hold" (utilize sufficiently) the reproductive hormones - estrogen and progesterone.

Zinc is found in high concentrations in the sperm. It is needed to make the outer layer and tail of the sperm and is, therefore, essential for the health of the man's sperm and subsequently, the baby. Interestingly, several studies have also shown that reducing zinc in a man's diet will also reduce his sperm count. Diets low in zinc can reduce sperm counts, while excessive alcohol intake can reduce zinc levels even further. Zinc is found in food such as meat, wholegrain cereals, seafood, eggs and pulses.

Another nutrient that has a role in male fertility is selenium. Selenium is an antioxidant that helps to protect the body from highly reactive chemical fragments called "free radicals." For this reason, selenium can prevent chromosome breakage, which is known to be a cause of birth defects and miscarriages. Good level of selenium is also essential to maximise sperm formation. Blood selenium levels have been found to be lower in men with low sperm counts. Brazil nuts contain lots of this important mineral, alongside meat, seafood, mushrooms and cereals.

Folic acid can prevent spina bifida in your baby, and it is essential that you get plenty both before and during pregnancy. And that is not all: folic acid is undoubtedly important, but it is just part of the very important B-complex family of vitamins that are necessary to produce the genetic materials DNA and RNA. Together with vitamin B12, folic acid works to ensure that a baby's genetic codes are intact.

It is not enough to take folic acid alone when one is trying to become pregnant, all of the B vitamins are essential during the pre-conceptual period. Research has shown that giving B6 to women who have trouble conceiving increases fertility and vitamin BI2 has been found to improve low sperm count. Rich dietary sources include fortified breakfast cereals, bread, green leafy vegetables (such as Brussels sprouts, broccoli, spinach and green beans), oranges, dried beans, peas and lentils.

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant and has been shown to increase fertility when given to both men and women. Vitamin C is also another antioxidant, and studies show that Vitamin C enhances sperm quality, protecting sperm and the DNA within it from damage. Some research has indicated that certain types of DNA damage in the sperm could make it difficult to conceive in the first place.

Drinking any alcohol at all can reduce your fertility by half, and the more you drink, the less likely you are to conceive. There is plenty of evidence to show that caffeine, particularly in the form of coffee, decreases fertility. Drinking as little as one cup of coffee a day can halve your chances of conceiving.

Smoking has definitely been linked with infertility in women. It can even bring on an early menopause, which is a particularly important consideration for older women who may be trying to beat the clock. Smoking can decrease sperm count in men, making the sperm more sluggish, and can increase the number of abnormal sperm. With men, the effects on fertility are increased with the number of cigarettes.

It is crucial for women to obtain an optimum level of body fat (at least 18 per cent). If the level drops below this, it can lead to hormone imbalances, which may result in a failure to ovulate. At the other extreme, obesity can lower a woman's chances of conception.

In general, meat, shellfish, milk, cheese, bread, wheat germ, citrus fruit, dark green leafy vegetables, egg yolks, nuts, avocados, oily fish, seeds and olive oil are good sources of zinc, Vitamin C, E and good fats and it is encouraged that it be consumed.

Abegunde is of the Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Public Health, University of Ibadan.

Source: http://www.guardiannewsngr.com/natural_health/article03//indexn3_html?pdate=070208&ptitle=Nutrition%20as%20complimentary%20therapy%20for%20infertility&cpdate=080208

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Dietary Nutrients and Supplements for Fertility & IVF

Modern farming practices, your diet, and your lifestyle, may require that you supplement with certain nutrients to optimize fertility.

Amino Acids

The building blocks of life. Necessary for egg and sperm production. It is an amino acid involved in cellular replication and protein synthesis. Some healthcare practitioners will recommend amino acids such as l-arginine to enhance fertility.

Caution: HERPES VIRUS: Theoretically, L-arginine might exacerbate this condition. Preliminary evidence suggests that L-arginine may be necessary for viral replication.

Dietary sources: protein foods such as meat, fish, eggs, dairy, lentils, peas, beans, nuts, brown rice, sunflower and pumpkin seeds, and quinoa.

Vitamin A

A fat soluble vitamin essential for the production of female sex hormones. It has antioxidant qualities which protects cells against damage from free radicals in the body. It also is important for the developing embryo. Retinol (the version of vitamin A found in liver) has been linked to fetal abnormalities.

Also affects the bones, eyes, hair, skin, soft tissue, teeth, soft tissue reproduction and repair, infection resistance, and purple spectrum for night vision.

For proper absorption ensure: adequate intake of vitamins C, E, and Zinc.

For proper absorption avoid: alcohol, coffee, cortisone, excessive iron, mineral oil, vitamin D deficiency.

Deficiency symptoms: allergies, appetite loss, blemishes, dry hair, fatigue, itching burning eyes, loss of smell, night blindness, rough dry skin, sinus trouble, soft tooth enamel, and susceptibility to infections.

Dietary sources: eggs, yellow fruits and vegetables, whole milk and milk products, dark green leafy veggies, liver, and cod liver oil.

Vitamin B1 (thiamin)

Needed for ovulation and implantation. Also affects brain, ears, eyes, hair, heart, nervous system, appetite, blood building, carbohydrate metabolism, circulation, digestion, energy, growth, learning capacity, muscles of the heart, intestines, and stomach.

For proper absorption ensure: adequate intake of B complex and Manganese.

For proper absorption avoid: alcohol, coffee, fevers, raw clams, excess sugar, stress, surgery, tobacco.

Deficiency symptoms: appetite loss, digestive disturbances, fatigue, irritability, nervousness, numbness of hands and feet, pain and noise sensitivity, pains around heart, shortness of breath.

Dietary sources: pineapple, molasses, brewer's yeast, whole grains, nuts, brown rice, organ and other meats, egg yolks, fish, poultry, legumes, and seeds.

Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)

Water soluble. Deficiencies are linked to sterility, miscarriage, and low birth weight. The liver uses B2 to clear away old used hormones (estrogen and progesterone). If these are not excreted, the body thinks there is enough and less production happens, resulting in hormone deficiencies.

Also affects eyes, hair nails, skin, soft body tissues, antibody and red blood cell formation, cell respiration, metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

For proper absorption ensure: adequate intake of B complex and phosphorus.

For proper absorption avoid: alcohol, coffee, sugar, tobacco.

Deficiency symptoms: cataracts, corner of mouth cracks and sores, dizziness, itching burning eyes , poor digestion, retarded growth, and red sore tongue.

Dietary sources: molasses, brewer's yeast, whole grains, nuts, brown rice, organ and other meats, egg yolks, fish, poultry, legumes, and seeds.

Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid)

Water soluble. Important for fetal development, adrenal growth, digestive tract, nerves, skin, antibody formation, conversion of carbohydrates fats and proteins into energy, growth stimulation, and vitamin utilization.

For proper absorption ensure: adequate intake of B complex vitamins.

For proper absorption avoid: alcohol and coffee.

Deficiency symptoms: diarrhea, duodenal ulcers, eczema, hypoglycemia, intestinal disorders, kidney trouble, loss of hair, muscle cramps, premature aging, respiratory infections, restlessness, nerve problems, sore feet, and vomiting.

Dietary sources: molasses, brewer's yeast, whole grains, nuts, brown rice, organ and other meats, egg yolks, fish, poultry, legumes, seeds, wheat germ, salmon, sweet potatoes, broccoli, oranges, cashews, pecans, and strawberries.

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)

Water soluble. Together with zinc, B6 is essential for the formation of female sex hormones and the proper functioning of estrogen and progesterone. A deficiency causes the ovaries to shut down production of progesterone which leads to estrogen dominance. B6 is used to treat luteal phase defects because of it encourages the production of progesterone. It also has shown to improve fertility rates if taken over a 6 month period.

Also used for blood, muscles, nerves, skin, antibody formation, digestion, fat and protein utilization, and maintains sodium-potassium balance for proper nerve function.

For proper absorption ensure: adequate intake of B complex vitamins.

For proper absorption avoid: alcohol, birth control pills coffee, radiation exposure, tobacco.

Deficiency symptoms: acne, anemia arthritis, convulsions in babies, depression, dizziness, hair loss, irritability, learning disabilities, weakness.

Dietary sources: molasses, brewer's yeast, whole grains, nuts, brown rice, organ and other meats, egg yolks, fish, poultry, legumes, seeds, and green leafy veggies.

Vitamin B12

Water soluble. Folate and B12 are needed for the synthesis of DNA and RNA. These make up the blueprint for the genetic code of the entire body. Also used for blood cell formation, cell longevity, healthy nervous system, and the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins.

For proper absorption ensure: adequate intake of B complex vitamins and B6.

For proper absorption avoid: alcohol, coffee, laxatives, tobacco.

Deficiency symptoms: general weakness, nervousness, pernicious anemia, walking and speaking difficulties.

Dietary sources: lamb, sardines, salmon, fermented foods that contain bacteria. Calcium aids in its absorption.

Folate (folic acid, B9)

Water soluble. This should be taken for at least 3 months before conception, and 2 months after. It reduces the risk of neural-tube damage (brain and spinal cord) in the developing embryo. Vitamin C aids in absorption. The contraceptive pill depletes stores of folate.

Also used for red blood cell formation, glands, liver, appetite, body growth and reproduction, hydrochloric acid production, and protein metabolism.
For proper absorption ensure: adequate intake of B complex vitamins and B12.

For proper absorption avoid: alcohol, coffee, stress, tobacco.

Deficiency symptoms: anemia, digestive disturbances, graying hair, growth problems.

Dietary sources: dark green leafy veggies, broccoli, organ meats, brewer's yeast, root vegetables, whole grains, oysters, salmon, milk, legumes, asparagus, oatmeal, dried figs, and avacados.

Vitamin C

An antioxidant that prevents damage from free radicals. Too high a dose (over 1000 mg per day) may dry cervical mucus. Beneficial during IVF treatment.

Also used for bone and tooth formation, collagen production, digestion, iodine conservation, healing burns and wounds, red blood cell formation, prevention of hemorrhaging, shock and infection resistance, antioxidant.

For proper absorption ensure: adequate intake of calcium and magnesium.

For proper absorption avoid: antibiotics, aspirin, cortisone, high fever, stress, tobacco.

Deficiency symptoms: anemia, bleeding gums, capillary wall ruptures, bruise easily, dental cavities, low infection resistance, nosebleeds, poor digestion.

Sources: citrus fruits, rosehips, cherries, sprouted alfalfa seeds, cantaloupe, strawberries, broccoli, tomatoes, sweet peppers, black currants, mangos, grapes, kiwi fruit, pineapples, asparagus, peas, potatoes

Vitamin E

Deficiency may cause miscarriage. Taken with vitamin C may improve ovulation. Taken with vitamin C and selenium creates a healthy endometrium. Vitamin E has anticoagulant properties, so caution if taking blood thinners.
'Some recent evidence shows a connection in the elderly to high dose vitamin E and heart failure. Consult your healthcare professional if you have any heart problems before taking vitamin E supplements.

Also used for slowing the aging process, anticlotting factor, blood cholesterol reduction, blood flow to the heart, capillary wall strengthening, fertility, male potency, lung protection from pollution, muscle and nerve maintenance.
Acubalance recommends avoiding synthetic dl-alpha tocopherol. Ideally you would use a natural type that consisted of mixed tocopherols that included gamma tocohperol gamma-tocopherol.

For proper absorption ensure: adequate intake of inositol and manganese.

For proper absorption avoid: birth control pills, chlorine, mineral oil, rancid fats and oils.

Deficiency symptoms: dull dry or falling hair, enlarged prostate, gastrointestinal disease, heart disease, impotency, miscarriages, muscular wasting, and sterility.

Dietary sources: cold pressed oils, wheat germ, organ meats, molasses, eggs, sweet potatoes, leafy veggies, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and avocados.

Iron

Iron helps prevent miscarriage. It also is important for the production of hemoglobin, and plays a role in stress and disease resistance.

For proper absorption ensure: adequate intake of vitamin C, calcium, and copper.

For proper absorption avoid: Tea, coffee, excessive Zinc, and tobacco all inhibit the absorption of iron.

Deficiency symptoms: breathing difficulties, brittle nails, anemia, constipation.

Dietary sources: organ meats, lean meat, eggs, fish, poultry, molasses, cherries, dried fruits, prunes, green leafy veggies, kelp, spinach, parsley, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, broccoli, oatmeal, sardines, and nuts.

Magnesium

We need B1 and magnesium for energy production. Also used for acid/alkaline balance, blood sugar metabolism, and the metabolism of vitamin C and calcium.

For proper absorption ensure: adequate intake of selenium, calcium, vitamin B6, and D to aid in absorption. Take with protein foods.

For proper absorption avoid: Alcohol, tea, coffee, and smoking.

Deficiency symptoms: confusion, disorientation, easily angered, nervousness, rapid pulse, tremors.

Dietary sources: kelp, green leafy veggies, tofu, legumes, rye, buckwheat, millet, molasses, brown rice, bananas, dried figs, dried apricots, nuts, barley, seafood, and whole grains.

Selenium

Deficiency may cause infertility and an increased risk of miscarriage.

Dietary sources: tuna, herring, brewer's yeast, wheat germ and bran, whole grains, and sesame seeds.

Manganese

Deficiency may lead to defective ovulation, and inhibit the synthesis of sex hormones. Manganese competes with iron for absorption. It is advisable to take manganese supplements with protein foods and vitamin C.

Also used for enzyme activation, reproduction and growth, tissue respiration, B1 metabolism, vitamin E utilization.

For proper absorption avoid: excessive intake of calcium and phosphorus.

Deficiency symptoms: ataxia, dizziness, ear noises, loss of hearing.

Dietary sources: whole grains, green leafy veggies, carrots, broccoli, ginger, legumes, nuts, pineapples, eggs, oats, and rye.

Zinc

Deficiencies of Zinc are quite common. Zinc is important for the cell division in the fetus, producing good quality eggs, and maintaining the menstrual cycle. Alcohol and the contraceptive pill deplete zinc in the body. Folic acid, tea, coffee, high fiber intake, and iron may inhibit absorption. Vitamin B6 and C may aid absorption.

Also used for burn and wound healing, carbohydrate digestion, prostate gland function, reproductive organ growth and development, sex organ growth and maturity, phosphorus and protein metabolism.

For proper absorption ensure: adequate intake of phosphorus.

For proper absorption avoid: alcohol, high doses of calcium.

Deficiency symptoms: delayed sexual maturity, fatigue, loss of taste, poor appetite, prolonged wound healing, retarded growth, sterility.

Dietary sources: lean meat, fish, seafood, chicken, eggs, pumpkin and sunflower seeds, rye, oats, whole grains, legumes, ginger, parsley, mushrooms, brewer's yeast, and wheat germ.

Coenzyme Q10

Important for energy production. Levels of CoQ10 are lower in a woman who has experienced a recent miscarriage. It has been said that ICSI fertilization rates may rise when taking this supplement, although we have found no research to confirm this. It also improves blood flow.

Essential Fatty Acids

Very important to take when trying to conceive. EFA's act as hormone regulators. Omega-3 DHA and Omega-6 arachidonic acid are important structural elements of cell membranes, body tissue, and brain development in the fetus. Start taking EFA's at least 3 months before you try to get pregnant.

Also used for hardening of the arteries prevention, blood coagulation, blood pressure normalizer, cholesterol, glandular activity, growth, and vital organ respiration.

Deficiency symptoms: acne, allergies, diarrhea, dry skin, dry brittle haie, eczema, gall stones, nail problems, underweight, varicose veins.

Dietary sources: Omega-3; flaxseed, oily fish, walnuts, green leafy veggies, and tuna (not more than 150g/week).

Dietary sources: Omega-6; seeds and their oils. Note: be careful if you are currently taking blood thinning medication, and ensure the product you are purchasing does thorough testing for heavy metals.

Source: http://www.acubalance.ca/Infertility#dietary

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