In years past, doctors and researchers believed that age is the determining factor in ovarian health, and thereby fertility. Although it is true that age plays a role in overall egg health, other factors such as lifestyle and diet can also affect the health of ovaries. Fortunately, there are some simple natural methods for improving egg health and fertility.
It’s All About the Eggs
The 90-Day Window
Women can take many steps to support egg health, but it is necessary to continue these for at least 90 days in order to have any kind of impact. In the 90 days prior to ovulation, the egg is changing and preparing itself for fertilization and implantation into the uterine wall. Both positive and negative influences affect the egg in this timeframe. Factors that influence proper egg formation include stress, diet, hormones, blood oxygen levels and overall blood flow.
Improving Egg Health Naturally
Fortunately, there are many tips and tricks for improving egg health naturally. Eating right, reducing stress and balancing hormones are crucial for enhancing fertility. The majority of these tips are simple to follow, but it requires dedication to stick to them.
Eat the Right Foods
A diet that is dense in nutrition is important for egg health. Some of the absolute best things you can consume include halibut, salmon, leafy greens, broccoli, berries, pumpkin and sesame seeds, and spices such as ginger or turmeric. There are also dietary supplements packed with nutrition, and these include royal jelly and maca, among others. Foods to avoid when trying to conceive include processed foods, trans fats, sugar, caffeine, alcohol and soda. What’s more, a low-fat diet robs the body of healthy fats that are necessary for proper egg formation.
Reduce Stress
Stress is another factor that influences egg health, and it is one of the most difficult to take care of for many women. However, stress results in the production of hormones such as cortisol and prolactin, which not only cause weight gain, but also may completely block ovulation. Some ideas for relieving stress include enjoying a quiet hobby, meditating, or getting a massage once per week. For severe cases, such as post-traumatic stress disorder or an anxiety disorder, a therapist is a great choice.
Balance Hormones
Hormones are crucial to egg health, too. In fact, even a slight hormonal imbalance can throw off the ovulation cycle. In severe cases, ovulation may not occur at all. Restoring hormonal balance is not difficult; in most cases, a healthy diet accompanied by moderate exercise is all it takes to get things back on track. Cleansing the system of extra hormones, such as cortisol, is a great place to start. The Hormone Reset Diet, made famous by Dr. Mehmet Oz, helps to rebalance hormones in the female body. Maca, known the world over as a superfood, balances many of the hormones responsible for healthy egg production and fertility when taken in the right amounts over time.
Boost Blood Flow and Increase Oxygen at the Cellular Level
Finally, improving overall blood flow is important not only for healthy eggs, but also for a healthy body in general. Drinking plenty of water is the foundation of good circulation as it supports proper blood volume and ensures that blood does not become too thick. Exercise also improves circulation, and some of the best activities include cycling, walking, running and tennis. Special yoga positions for fertility are also helpful. Finally, many women report that fertility massage is beneficial. The process involves massaging the abdomen in an effort to improve blood flow to organs and tissues, and it works best when performed from the day after the period up until ovulation begins. Healthy eggs are the cornerstone of fertility, and since every woman has a limited supply, it is important to take care of them. Often, even those who have had fertility and conception issues in the past find that simple lifestyle changes like these provide them with the boost they need to conceive their precious babies.