When it comes to fertility, everyone seems to be an expert. They offer their opinions, whether they are wanted or not. Sifting through the tips like “My sister in law took castor oil shots and was pregnant in a month” can be confusing and extremely overwhelming. As it is the holiday season, we tend to be more indulgent in food and drink, regardless of what stage we are in life. Don’t feel guilty when Susan questions your choice of champagne at midnight on New Year’s Eve if you’re in baby-making mode. CELEBRATE and enjoy yourself. One glass won’t leave you baren! It’s all about choices and control. This month we’re breaking down the foods that can help to naturally boost fertility and those that will put a damper on it.

Helpful:

1. Leafy Greens are not just used to make beautiful wreaths.

Spinach, romaine, arugula, broccoli, and other dark leafy greens are high in folate and Vitamin B, which has been found to help with ovulation. You don’t make friends with salad...but you do make babies! Share your next big bowl of greens with your man! Men who get higher doses of folate make healthier sperm.

2. When life hands you lemons… turn it into Lemonade, the Beyonce female power album...not the sugary drink.

Channel your inner Queen Bey and instead of serving fierceness towards your man, serve him some citrus. Lemons, limes, oranges, grapefruits etc. They are loaded with Vitamin C, which improves your man's swimmer quality, avoiding lazy clumps from the get go..no one wants to start off with the lazy gene right?

3. Vampires are so 10 years ago.

While Bella picked Edward, we would have picked Jacob because of 6 hard packed items (and no we’re not talking about those abs). We’re talking about GARLIC. Garlic is packed with Vitamin C and B6, which regulate hormone levels and boost your immune system. Garlic is also loaded with allicin which increases blood flow to reproductive organs ;). The most impressive thing about this super herb is that it also has extremely high amounts of selenium, an antioxidant that can prevent chromosome breakage (which can be linked to miscarriages and birth defects). So... take a second helping of that baked garlic at the Christmas party!

4. Walnuts? Roasting on an Open Fire

It’s time to update the lyrics to “The Christmas Song” for those #Fertilifybabes in babymaking mode. Skip the chestnuts and go straight for the Walnuts. Walnuts are high in fibre and the only vegetarian food to contain Omega 3’s, which helps to produce progesterone, the hormone that promotes a healthy uterine lining ready to welcome the fertilized egg. Walnuts also have Magnesium, which can help naturally ease morning sickness. They are high in calories so portion control is important. Two tablespoons are plenty!

5. The Staple of Holiday Party Hors d'oeuvres - Smoked Salmon with Avocado.

Great news, every holiday party will be passing these out and they should be high on your list of items to indulge in. Salmon is one of the BEST sources of Omega 3’s and DHA, which help with healthy brain, eye and fetal development. Women with BMI (Body Mass Index) of 25 or higher are particularly low on DHA so go ahead, take seconds. Avocados are not only a gift sent from the heavens, BUT they contain Vitamin K, which helps to absorb nutrients while keeping your hormonal balance. Avocados are also loaded with potassium which regulates blood pressure. You shouldn’t eat more than one a day as they are high in fat (the good kind...yes there is a good kind of fat) but the amount used on the Hors d'oeuvres is minimal so seconds and thirds are welcomed.  

HINDER:

1. Choose McSnugz instead of McNuggz

We’ve all been there... sometimes a late night/early morning McDonald's run is necessary to bounce back from that late night Holiday Party, but fried and processed foods are EXTREMELY high in Trans fats. They should be avoided as they decrease your ability to react to insulin, which in turn makes you prone to irregular ovulation.

2. I’ll get a Non-Fat Skinny Mocha Latte with Extra Foam

While we appreciate caffeine and what it does to make the human race more tolerable in the morning. Caffeine should be limited to one 8 oz cup per day for those trying to conceive. Caffeine is a stimulant and a diuretic which increase blood pressure, heart rate and urine output. So you’ll need two glasses of water to make up for that morning cup of coffee. While we on the topic, studies have found that full-fat milk is actually better to consume that skim or low fat. Removing the “fat qualities” from milk changes it balance of sex hormones which hurts ovulation. The Nurses' Health Study found that one or two daily servings of whole milk or whole milk products protect against ovulatory infertility.

3. Sugar, oh honey honey. You are my candy girl and you got me wanting you.

What is a white powdered substance, that is highly addictive, produces the chemicals dopamine and serotonin and brings an instant boost in energy? If you said cocaine, you would be right….but the answer we are looking for is SUGAR. Yes it has the same chemical effect on your body as cocaine, scary right? The list of problems sugar can cause are never-ending, but insulin resistance, weight gain, yeast infections, lowered hormone distribution are at the top of the list. All of the above-mentioned issues all interfere with fertility, and in an actual fact sugar in some cases can cause infertility altogether. While going sugar-free is REALLY hard, it can be done, but in the holiday season, this feat seems near impossible. Look for items with natural sugars like honey, maple syrup or fruit over refined sugars like candy canes, icing and milk chocolate.

4. Diet...a four letter word that is not your friend

Aspartame. JUST SAY NO! Aspartame is made up of three elements: phenylalanine, aspartic acid and methanol. Even its ingredients do not sound appetizing. It not only affects fertility in women but men as well. Aspartame has been linked to damaging cell DNA, which is passed on to your future offspring by both sperm and egg.  Aspartame affects the release of prolactin and growth hormone, which regulate your sex drive and functions….and NOBODY wants that.

5. Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious

If you can’t read it, or say it...DO NOT EAT IT. Words that are long and complicated like phenylketonurics, phenylalanine, maltodextrin etc. are not your friend. Although the front of the package says “All Natural. Low Fat. Gluten Free” does not mean it will be helpful. Flip it over, read the label….if the first 5 ingredients on the label are not REAL food like Barley, Oatmeal, Rice, Milk etc...just put it down and back away.

Remember it is all about quality and quantity. Will a 2-3 chocolate covered almonds and glass of champagne going to make it so that you’ll never have a baby...probably not, but there are so many delicious alternatives you can have that taste amazing AND will help the baby makers out in the process, really it’s a win-win! Excuse us while we grab another round of avocado and roasted garlic.

The season of giving is upon us, and as much as those #BossBabes in your life like a coffee mug with a witty pop culture reference, sometimes it’s nice to think outside of the box and spoil those #BossBabes with the ulitmate must haves on their list.

1. BellaBeat - starting at $119.00

Everyone and their brother has a fitness tracker, but not everyone has this super chic piece of “smart jewelry” not only does it track your activity throughout the day, it monitors your stress level, the quality of sleep, provides you with several guided meditations and best of all it tracks your cycle.
The BellaBeat is also discreet and looks like a super cute piece of jewelry that can be worn as a necklace, bracelet or a clip on your shirt. It syncs to your phone and the battery lasts for 6 months, no charging necessary. There are several accessories that go with it so you can style it up or down depending on the occasion.

2. Spring Water Bottle - $89

If your #BossBabe already has a Bellabeat, or if you’re looking to totally dominate gift giving, the Spring Water bottle is brought to you by the fabulous people at BellaBeat and is the only SMART water bottle. What does that mean? Well Spring calculates your water intake goal based on your age, height, weight, activity, local weather, and if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It collects the data and syncs it to your phone, which easily helps you reach your goals. It’s a beautifully looking glass bottle, that is BPA free, dishwasher safe and like its sister, the BellaBeat, requires no charging.

3. Bed of Nails - Acupressure Mats starting at $39.95

This one is a bit of a game changer. After reading Bed of Nails, you might think of some medieval torture chamber, but in reality it’s the easy and cost efficient way to get into acupuncture. Acupuncture can increase fertility by reducing stress, increasing blood flow to the reproductive organs and balancing the endocrine system, according to several studies and medical research.  By laying on the mat for 10-20 minutes daily, the tiny pressure points will trigger the body's “self energizing and healing” properties while releasing endorphins (happy feelings) and oxytocin (hormone released during sex) and create feelings of euphoria and well-being. The first time might be a little awkward (but whose isn’t) and with time you’ll be racing to get home to unwind on your mat.

4. Underclub Subscription - $21 per month or $228 for a year

Giving undies can be a bit of an awkward thing, but think of it as a more helpful “wine of the month” club for that babe who is in baby making mode. These are not your mom’s undies, these luxury barely there panties will be delivered to the door so the only person who will see them being unwrapped will be the one taking them off ;)

5. Ultrasonic Diffusers - Starting at $39.95

Essential Oils are all the rage, and we completely get it. Helping to set the mood, calm the soul or even energize sleepy mornings, it seems like there is nothing Essential Oils can’t do. What better way to make sure the #BossBabes in your life have the necessary oils to improve their daily life than with a beautiful diffuser. Did you know that Damiana, Geranium and Clary Sage all have natural libedo boosting powers? Try adding some of those to your diffuser next date night ;) We like lavender at bedtime, and a citrus oil blend in the morning.

6. FERTILIFY - Starting at $37.95

Yes, you read that right. We are recommending our own product! Before you get judgey on us, FERTILIFY is proven to help support fertility AND this would be an outstanding gift for those in your life who aren’t quite ready for an addition to their family, but still want to keep that option readily available. Don’t take our word for it, take the MANY positive reviews from Amazon like:

It really worked for me:

After 2+years of trying to concieve I decided to give FERTILIFY a try. Started it this last July. This morning I got my first positive pregnancy test. I'm still in shock.

Update: I'm still in shock and can't believe I'm pregnant. I've had 2 ultrasounds and am expecting a baby girl in July.

Update: I can’t rave enough about this product. I’m sitting here with my gorgeous daughter. Something I was afraid might never happen.

I’M GOING TO BE AN AUNT:

Bought this for my sister-in-law because she and my brother had been trying to conceive for a little over a year now with no luck. She has been taking them for a month now and called me today and guess what? BFP! YEAY! I'm gonna be an aunt!

So you’re ready to have a baby. You’ve told your friends and family and they’re thrilled. You’ve spent some time getting “practice” in, but nothing yet. You’ve downloaded the right apps to track your cycle, and still no baby. You’ve gone to your doctor, who tells you to relax (easier said than done) and still nothing. Every visit with friends causes you stress “When’s the baby coming?” they constantly ask. Your family offers advice but the pressure is mounting. Days turn into weeks. Weeks turn into months and before you know it, your every thought is “Why can’t I get pregnant?”

First off, YOU ARE NOT ALONE! I will repeat, You, my friend, are not alone in this struggle. In regular day to day life, we all have stresses and unique ways to deal with them. Some go for a run, some grab a drink with friends and some try the newest fitness fad (Treadmill dancing am I right?). But through the years yoga and meditation have stood the test of time. 

Meditation is a powerful technique for learning how to “unwind” the mind and find happiness that is not dependent on anything outside of your being. It’s simple, really.  You just sit and observe the sensations, thoughts, and emotions that are present in our body and mind. Well, it SOUNDS simple. Meditation like anything takes practice and time. The biggest expectation is that meditation will make you feel instantly feel calmer and more relaxed– almost like you sit cross-legged and this white light will instantly shine upon you and peace arrives. In actual fact, it is the complete opposite of that. When we sit and listen to our minds and emotions, it feels tumultuous and restless. But the simple act of observing those feelings helps to change your life outside of the mediation. It starts with a subtle awareness of your mind and your most common emotions and grows into dealing with those emotions (stress, pain, and suffering) in everyday life.

If you’ve ever wondered why you feel so out of balance around your period, or really sad as the weather changes, it’s most likely because your body is not intuned. How do you know if it’s tuned? No, you can’t go out and buy a tuner like you would a guitar. You’ll need to look a little bit deeper, to the Chakras. There are 7 Chakras to be exact, that all have links to the natural elements, your senses, and your emotions. They can be linked to foods, essential oils and event stones. So if you’re feeling down on yourself, and like no one cares...your Heart Chakra is probably out of alignment, and you need physical touch, personal connections and something that brings love to your life. Now you’re probably rolling your eyes and thinking “What a kook” but unlike treadmill dancing, this has been around for millions of years and has been studied, researched and endorsed by doctors, therapists, healers, doulas, midwives etc. the list is endless.

How can YOU do this? Following this basic meditation and affirmations thanks to NaturalFertilityInfo.Com

Root Chakra – Base of the spine

I let go of my insecurities and fear of being infertile. I envision my blood flowing through my body, healthy and nourishing. I feel my skeleton holding me up aligned and strong. I am grounded and centered on my fertility journey.

Sacral Chakra – Two inches above the Root Chakra

I let go of self-limiting thoughts. I envision my reproductive organs as vibrant and healthy; functioning perfectly. I am connected to my sexuality in a respectful and loving way.

Solar Plexus Chakra – Just above the navel

I release tension and any feelings of lack of control surrounding my fertility. I own my personal power. I envision my digestive system taking in my food and thoughts, transforming them into nourishing energy for my body and my future child.

Heart Chakra – Chest

I release my guilt and lack of love for myself. I have the ability to give and receive love and compassion freely. I forgive myself for any guilt I carry surrounding my fertility. I am worthy of love. I envision my heart and lungs working perfectly, bringing freshly oxygenated blood to my entire body.

Throat Chakra – Throat

I resolve to communicate my feelings surrounding my fertility journey in a clear way. I will be honest with myself. I work to balance my life. My fertility is a creative expression of my human experience. I envision my thyroid gland working efficiently to keep my energy balanced.

Third Eye Chakra – Center of the forehead

I let go of my lack of concentration and fear of succeeding. My visions and dreams to have a baby and heal my body are clear to me. I make my reality and dreams come true. I envision what I hear and see about myself clearly for what they are, and I work to transmute them into loving, healthy thoughts.

Crown Chakra – Top of head, extending upward

I let go of my frustration and destructive thoughts surrounding my fertility. I am connected to my Creator. I feel peace and well being from this connection. I envision my endocrine system, brain, and nervous system functioning with calm, centered peace and clarity. I am fertile.

Remember, these changes cannot be measured by the same means as your weight, or heart rate. It takes time and patience. Buy a book and write down how you feel before and after each session. Use simple phrases like “Calmed me down” or “Helped me understand”. Keeping track of your feelings is the easiest way to see what direction you need to shift during meditation to help improve your overall health for prime fertility. You go boss babes!