{"id":2077,"date":"2012-01-30T22:19:53","date_gmt":"2012-01-30T12:19:53","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.belly.net.au\/?p=2077"},"modified":"2012-02-08T14:59:54","modified_gmt":"2012-02-08T04:59:54","slug":"nutrition-during-preconception","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/www.belly.net.au\/?p=2077","title":{"rendered":"nutrition during preconception"},"content":{"rendered":"<div style=\"text-align: left;\">Crazy gremlins won&#8217;t let me space this out properly so that it is more enjoyable to read, they have decided they want to get warm and snuggly with the words instead and remain all squishy sqaushy, so i hope it is not too crammed for you to cope with and just as soon as i am able to cope with re-entering it all &#8230; i will &#8230; i promise !<\/div>\n<div style=\"text-align: left;\">Talofa &#8230; Sister Rasela having a wander through the land of preconception on this weeks bellylicious show.<\/div>\n<div style=\"text-align: left;\">Whether you are planning a bump or two or like last weeks guest,\u00a0FIVE !!! ..\u00a0if you\u00a0simply have an insatiable appetite for information\u00a0and knowledge, perhaps you might know someone who needs a bit of help in the area of preconception or maybe you are reading this because you\u00a0love\u00a0listening to the show and wanted to find out more about who and what we are about through our website &#8211; either way,\u00a0it&#8217;s great to have your eyes on loan today and your ears each Monday if you are a BayFM listener. Thank you.<\/div>\n<div style=\"text-align: left;\">Food is such a crucial part of our lives, not only through tastes and flavours but through the life giving properties it possesses when it is grown, prepared and eaten correctly, at the correct times and\u00a0in the correct amounts. Only YOU know, in all your beautiful uniqueness, what is best for you at what time of your life, all i am here to do is help facilitate the knowledge and information i have learned and practiced in the hope that you gain something from what i share.<\/div>\n<div style=\"text-align: left;\">Preparing your body to bring a healthy baby into the world is very important, not only if you are struggling to fall pregnant but also if you want to give your baby THE best start to life you can. Our incredible bodies have the capacity to be unbelievably adaptable and healthy babies are born every day to parents that may not be healthy themselves, so not only are you preparing your baby for the best start in life, you will could well be preparing your own body, mind and spirit for your new life as a parent. If you are\u00a0struggling to maintain a healthy body before your pregnancy then just think of how much a 9 month\u00a0pregnancy can further deplete your stores of nutrients.\u00a0You may find that you don&#8217;t have to take illness, depression and tiredness for granted, you may find you are able to improve your own energy levels and wellbeing by starting off on the right foot long before the nursery is painted and the sleepless nights begin&#8230;. surely it&#8217;s worth a try ? That&#8217;s up to you to decide.<\/div>\n<div style=\"text-align: left;\"><div id=\"attachment_2082\" style=\"width: 478px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.belly.net.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/01\/19201761.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-2082\" class=\"size-full wp-image-2082\" title=\"1920176[1]\" src=\"http:\/\/www.belly.net.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/01\/19201761.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"468\" height=\"310\" srcset=\"http:\/\/www.belly.net.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/01\/19201761.jpg 468w, http:\/\/www.belly.net.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/01\/19201761-300x198.jpg 300w, http:\/\/www.belly.net.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/01\/19201761-150x99.jpg 150w, http:\/\/www.belly.net.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/01\/19201761-400x264.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 468px) 100vw, 468px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-2082\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">spot the difference ...<\/p><\/div><\/p>\n<div style=\"text-align: left;\">Preconception care aims to ensure that there\u2019s an adequate supply of all the nutritional factors, which are essential for the health of sperm, ova and foetus and an absence of those factors which are known to compromise general health or which are harmful to germ cells and to foetal development. Since ova are susceptible to damage 100 days before ovulation, and sperm formation takes approximately 116 days, the pregnancy preparation for both parents should be a minimum period of 4 months before an intended conception (or longer for those hard core hedonistic party folk).<\/div>\n<div>Complete preconception health care involves identification and detoxification of heavy metals, avoidance of environmental toxins such as smoking and pesticides, treatment of allergies, treatment of infection and treatment of reproductive or fertility problems. <strong>Nutrition<\/strong> and nutritional supplementation addresses many of these factors and can help to provide the essential nutrients for healthy foetal growth and development.<\/div>\n<div>I have to say that what you are about to hear is just here to help guide you if you are planning a pregnancy. Even if you\u2019re not planning to, there is a lot of info coming on key nutrients and what foods to find them in. Always remember that changes are best made and longest kept if you make them gradually. Enjoy what you are doing for your body, give it the love it deserves especially IF you have spent years taking it for granted. I personally have known a few couples who have opted rather early on to spend a fortune on IVF because they haven\u2019t conceived soon enough but then are still drinking alcohol and looking for a bit of an &#8216;easy way out&#8217;. IF you haven\u2019t looked after yourself up until now, I believe your body has the right to say<em> bugger you!<\/em> I\u2019m not giving you what you want until you start looking after me and give me something back \u2026 fair enough too don&#8217;t you think ??!!<\/div>\n<div id=\"attachment_2083\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.belly.net.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/01\/mamas-big-belly-lori-ulatowski1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-2083\" class=\"size-full wp-image-2083\" title=\"mamas-big-belly-lori-ulatowski[1]\" src=\"http:\/\/www.belly.net.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/01\/mamas-big-belly-lori-ulatowski1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"480\" srcset=\"http:\/\/www.belly.net.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/01\/mamas-big-belly-lori-ulatowski1.jpg 600w, http:\/\/www.belly.net.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/01\/mamas-big-belly-lori-ulatowski1-300x240.jpg 300w, http:\/\/www.belly.net.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/01\/mamas-big-belly-lori-ulatowski1-150x120.jpg 150w, http:\/\/www.belly.net.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/01\/mamas-big-belly-lori-ulatowski1-400x320.jpg 400w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/a><p id=\"caption-attachment-2083\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">belly beautiful<\/p><\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>Important needs include:<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Detoxification<\/div>\n<div>Nutrition<\/div>\n<div>Avoidance of toxins\/pollutants<\/div>\n<div>Various diagnostic tests<\/div>\n<div>Exercise<\/div>\n<div>Stress\/anxiety reduction<\/div>\n<div>Positive thoughts and loving vibes from friends and loved ones maaaaan<\/div>\n<div>BOTH PARENTS NEED TO BE COMMITTED (not to a mental asylum)<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>Goals to achieve before conception is attempted:<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Adequate nutritional status \u2013 where you are at. Blood tests etc.<\/div>\n<div>Adequate protection\/detoxification from toxins<\/div>\n<div>Minimum 4 months good nutrition \u2013 diet\/supplementation if there are deficiencies<\/div>\n<div>Minimum 4 months abstinence from all drugs including caffeine, alcohol, nicotine<\/div>\n<div>Adequate exercise program<\/div>\n<div>Regular cycles\/balanced hormones \u2013 contraceptive pill<\/div>\n<div>Adequate sperm count\/motility\/morphology \u2013 downstairs is working<\/div>\n<div>Adequate stress management<\/div>\n<div>Bodies and minds need time to repair and rest and adjust to a change in lifestyle. Honour this.<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>Benefits of preconception health care: <\/strong><\/div>\n<div>The presence of all the factors required for the creation of a healthy foetus<\/div>\n<div>The absence of all factors detrimental to this very creation<\/div>\n<div>Ensure a normal, healthy, full-term pregnancy ((help prevent miscarriage, premature birth and stillbirth)<\/div>\n<div>Can assit in the Mother being\u00a0free of post-natal depression<\/div>\n<div>Successful and long term breastfeeding<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>Factors contributing to increasing levels of infertility:<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Stress and anxiety<\/div>\n<div>Poor diet\/nutrition<\/div>\n<div>Sexually transmitted diseases and genito-urinary infections<\/div>\n<div>Pollution\/toxins<\/div>\n<div>Drugs<\/div>\n<div>Previous use of contraception programs<\/div>\n<div>Previous terminations<\/div>\n<div>Greater age of prospective parents<\/div>\n<div><strong>STARTING PRE CONCEPTION CARE <\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Supplements and suggested daily doses &#8211; The recognition that supplements are necessary to meet nutritional needs during reproduction is not a new concept, however it is important to ensure that the right combination of supplements taken is complete and well balanced.<\/div>\n<blockquote>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>SUPPLEMENTS SHOULD NOT BE USED IN PLACE OF AN IMPROVED DIET AND A HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE!<\/strong><\/div>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><em>This is where it gets tricky because without a consultation I have no idea of your current nutritional status so I can only give you an idea of beneficial vitamins and minerals and their role in the reproductive system. If you want more specifics you should see a Naturopath or health professionl of which there are many in and around this beautiful Shire of ours. <\/em><em>Personally I am not in favour of huge amounts of supplements as the liver has to metabolise these synthetic substances, <strong>unless<\/strong> there is a severe deficiency where food alone will not meet the required amounts.<\/em><\/div>\n<div style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong> <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" id=\"il_fi\" src=\"http:\/\/www.battleagainstbald.com\/photos\/uncategorized\/2008\/02\/13\/vitamins.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"365\" height=\"236\" \/><\/strong><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>VITAMIN A\/BETA-CAROTENE<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>High doses can cause BIRTH DEFECTS \u2013 <strong>this is a concern for women<\/strong> <strong>taking nutritional supplements containing Vitamin A. Please check with a health professional if you hav thoughts, doubts or further questions on this !!<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Important as an antioxidant, keeps fallopian tubes healthy (mucous membrane maintenance) necessary for health of testes, for sperm production and is needed for the conversion of cholesterol to the male hormone testosterone.<\/div>\n<div>A need for both pre-formed and pro-formed Vitamin A is required to enable the full absorption of this nutrient. It is a fat-soluble vitamin therefore an adequate amount of <strong>good <\/strong>fat is required in the diet for it to be utilised. Very interesting considering there are so many people sucked into the marketing ploy of all that \u2018fat free\u2019 advertises to be !<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>PRE-FORMED VITAMIN A<\/strong> <strong>FOODS &#8211; <\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Liver is very high in Vit A and should probably be avoided altogether<\/div>\n<div>Organic eggs<\/div>\n<div>Organic butter<\/div>\n<div>Cod liver oil (in appropriate doses)<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>PROVITAMIN A FOODS<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Sweet potatoes or yams<\/div>\n<div>Cantaloupe rock melon<\/div>\n<div>Spinach<\/div>\n<div>Carrots<\/div>\n<div>Butternut squash<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>B-COMPLEX VITAMINS <\/strong><\/div>\n<div>These vitamins include B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, PABA, Inositol, Choline and Folic Acid<\/div>\n<div>Recreational drugs and prescription drugs and alcohol severely deplete B Vitamins. B5 is hugely beneficial for stress (liquid B\u2019s are great)<\/div>\n<div>Deficiencies of all of the B Vitamins have been associated with fertility problems, miscarriage, neonatal and perinatal death, foetal abnormalities, and low birth weight babies<\/div>\n<div>B Vitamins are needed for a large number of bodily functions including the manufacturing of sex hormones, the metabolism of EFA\u2019s and the production of the correct balance of oestrogen and progesterone<\/div>\n<div>Male fertility is dependent on B5 for healthy testes and B12 to increase sperm count and motility.<\/div>\n<div>Inositol is required for healthy prostate<\/div>\n<div>Supplementation before and during pregnancy reduces the risk<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>B5 (PANTOTHENIC ACID) FOODS<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Raw Crimini Mushrooms<\/div>\n<div>Cauliflower<\/div>\n<div>Broccoli<\/div>\n<div>Turnip greens<\/div>\n<div>Sunflower seeds (raw)<\/div>\n<div>Tomatoes<\/div>\n<div>Strawberries<\/div>\n<div>Grapefruit<\/div>\n<div>Yoghurt<\/div>\n<div>Eggs<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>B9 FOLIC ACID <\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Essential for the formation of DNA and RNA<\/div>\n<div>Requirements for Folic Acids doubles during pregnancy and is required for 3 months pre and post conception to prevent neural tube defects and anencephaly<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>B9 FOODS<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Liver<\/div>\n<div>Kidney<\/div>\n<div>Leafy green vegetables<\/div>\n<div>Cauliflower<\/div>\n<div>Note: Overcooking destroys much of the folic acid<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>VITAMIN C (Ascorbic Acid) and BIOFLAVONOIDS<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Ascorbic Acid accumulates in both the ovary and the testes and is a key compound in gonadal physiology. Both organs depend on this nutrient for sex steroid hormone production<\/div>\n<div>It\u2019s also an antioxidant that protects against the toxicity of lead, pesticides and other environmental pollutants and against mutagenic activity<\/div>\n<div>Good levels can help protect against genetic abnormalities<\/div>\n<div>Important in the role of iron absorption<\/div>\n<div>Assists the adrenal function\u00a0by supporting and replenishing stores<\/div>\n<div>Sperm motility and ability<\/div>\n<div>Improves semen parameters- even a marginal deficiency can cause oxidative damage to sperm, resulting in reduced sperm motility and viability<\/div>\n<div>Necessary for the maturation of the pre-ovulatory follicle<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>VITAMIN C FOODS<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>It is important to maintain the variety between all foods containing Vitamin C<\/div>\n<div>Guava<\/div>\n<div>Papaya<\/div>\n<div>Red\/green bell pepper<\/div>\n<div>Orange<\/div>\n<div>Broccoli<\/div>\n<div>Potato baked with skin (more than in an orange !!)<\/div>\n<div>Cabbage greens<\/div>\n<div>Raw spinach<\/div>\n<div>Mango<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>VITAMIN E<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Is an Antioxidant<\/div>\n<div>Helps regulate oestrogen levels<\/div>\n<div>Useful in the treatment of PMS and lumpy breasts, deficiency can lead to spontaneous abortion and if severe, a total lack of sperm<\/div>\n<div>Improves sperm motility and effective in the treatment of low sperm count<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>VITAMIN E FOODS<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Almonds<\/div>\n<div>Avocado<\/div>\n<div>Hazelnuts<\/div>\n<div>Mango<\/div>\n<div>Olive oil<\/div>\n<div>Safflower oil<\/div>\n<div>Sweet potato<\/div>\n<div>Wheat germ oil<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>CALCIUM<\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong><em>*Should be balanced with magnesium<\/em><\/strong><em>*<\/em><\/div>\n<div>(2:1) Calcium\/Magnesium &#8211; The synchronistic effect \u2026 Certain vitamins and minerals need each other to function at their best for absorption and assimilation<\/div>\n<div>Adequate calcium stature is important for conception \u2013 required for the formation of fertile mucous and can also improve the ability of the sperm to swim through it<\/div>\n<div><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"> <\/span><\/div>\n<div><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">High Ca sources <\/span><\/div>\n<div>Sardines with bones<\/div>\n<div>Moderate amounts of cheese<\/div>\n<div>Plain yoghurt<\/div>\n<div><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"> <\/span><\/div>\n<div><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Med Ca sources<\/span><\/div>\n<div>Figs<\/div>\n<div>Cottages cheese<\/div>\n<div>Bok-choy<\/div>\n<div>Broccoli<\/div>\n<div>Kale<\/div>\n<div>Tofu<\/div>\n<div>Almonds<\/div>\n<div>Tahini<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>MAGNESIUM<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>A mild Mg deficiency may cause free radical damage to the sperm<\/div>\n<div>Necessary for the production of oestrogen and progesterone<\/div>\n<div>Reduces stress<\/div>\n<div>Relaxes muscles (Dark Choccie is better and higher in antioxidants)<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>Mg FOODS<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Halibut<\/div>\n<div>Tuna (Fish now days can have very high levels of mercury. The bigger fish eat smaller ones and so run the risk of becoming more contaminated)<\/div>\n<div>Artichokes<\/div>\n<div>Bananas<\/div>\n<div>Dried figs<\/div>\n<div>Barley<\/div>\n<div>Buckwheat GF<\/div>\n<div>Oat bran<\/div>\n<div>Almonds, brazils, cashew, pine nuts<\/div>\n<div>Pumpkin seeds<\/div>\n<div>Spinach<\/div>\n<div>Tomato paste<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>Fe &#8211; IRON<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Iron supplementation is only appropriate when a proven need has been established (check ferritin levels\/iron stores \u2013through blood test)<\/div>\n<div><strong>*<em>Only 40% of women have iron stores within appropriate range before they conceive<\/em>*<\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>Fe FOODS<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Red meat<\/div>\n<div>Liver (although this is extremely high in Vit A and would be better avoided in pregnant women)<\/div>\n<div>Pulses (lentils and beans) GF (always pre-soak and cook with strip of wakame to ease digestibility)<\/div>\n<div>Dried fruit<\/div>\n<div>Green leafy veggies<\/div>\n<div>Nuts and seeds<\/div>\n<div>Fortified breakfast cereals<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>MANGANESE<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>A severe lack can be the cause of infertility as it can lead to a total lack of sperm<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>Ma FOODS<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Pineapple<\/div>\n<div>Cooked brown rice GF<\/div>\n<div>Spinach<\/div>\n<div>Whole grain Rye (GF if 100% pure)<\/div>\n<div>Tempeh GF<\/div>\n<div>Oats<\/div>\n<div>Spelt<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>CHROMIUM &#8211; 3<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Upper levels are recommended for those with sugar cravings<\/div>\n<div>Deficiency has an ability to depress nucleic acid synthesis<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>Ch FOODS<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Sweet potato<\/div>\n<div>Apple<\/div>\n<div>Organic Egg<\/div>\n<div>Tomato<\/div>\n<div>Broccoli<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>SELENIUM<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Selenium is either not present in the foods due to soil deficiency or destroyed through over processing<\/div>\n<div>Deficiency results in impaired reproductive performance in ALL species studied<\/div>\n<div>Good for use in heavy metal detoxification<\/div>\n<div>Prevents oxidation of sperm<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>Se FOODS<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Brazil nuts (by far the highest source)<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>COPPER<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Both a deficiency and excess can lead to fertility problems<\/div>\n<div>Deficiencies are rare due to copper piping used to receive water<\/div>\n<div>Excess can lead to low levels of Zinc and Zinc deficiency is implicated in many reproductive problems<\/div>\n<div>No foods recommended<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>ZINC <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>MOST IMPORTANT NUTRIENT FOR MALE AND FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Zinc is commonly deficient with 67% of Aussie men and 85% of women having marginal dietary levels<\/div>\n<div><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"> <\/span><\/div>\n<div><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">FEMALE REPRODUCTION<\/span><\/div>\n<div>Important for Progesterone reproduction<\/div>\n<div>FSH and LH secretions (important hormone release)<\/div>\n<div>Ovarian development<\/div>\n<div>Reduces risk of miscarriage and birth defects. Low birth weight\/growth retardation, premature labour, inefficient labour and stretch marks<\/div>\n<div>Adequate amounts of Zinc can help in the prevention of post natal depression (used with EFA\u2019s)<\/div>\n<div>DNA and RNA synthesis<\/div>\n<div>Immune system function<\/div>\n<div>Hormonal activity<\/div>\n<div><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"> <\/span><\/div>\n<div><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">MALE REPRODUCTION<\/span><\/div>\n<div>Vital for spermatogenesis<\/div>\n<div>For the development of the primary and secondary sexual characteristics<\/div>\n<div>Testosterone production<\/div>\n<div>Prostate function<\/div>\n<div>Sperm count, motility and morphology<\/div>\n<div>Greater biological needs than female (lost in ejaculation) interestingly most teenage boys develop a serious deficiency at that age and it\u2019s linked to their<\/div>\n<div>behavioural patterns, just an interesting piece of info &#8230;<\/div>\n<div>Reduced sperm count<\/div>\n<div>Reduced serum testosterone<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>Zn FOODS<\/strong><\/div>\n<div><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"> <\/span><\/div>\n<div><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">ANIMAL &#8211; ORGANIC<\/span><\/div>\n<div>Beef<\/div>\n<div>Lamb<\/div>\n<div>Pork<\/div>\n<div>Crabmeat<\/div>\n<div>Turkey\/Chicken<\/div>\n<div><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"> <\/span><\/div>\n<div><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">VEGETARIAN HIPPIES<\/span><\/div>\n<div>Pumpkin seeds (highest)<\/div>\n<div>Milk<\/div>\n<div>Cheese<\/div>\n<div>Beans<\/div>\n<div>Wholegrain cereal<\/div>\n<div>Brown rice<\/div>\n<div>Potato<\/div>\n<div>Yoghurt<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS (EFA\u2019S)<\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>SECOND MOST IMPORTANT NUTRIENT IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Healthy sperm are dependent on an adequate supply of EFA\u2019s<\/div>\n<div>Developing foetus has high requirements for EFA\u2019s \u2013 large amounts are deposited in the last trimester of pregnancy<\/div>\n<div>Formation of prostaglandins \u2013 responsible for correct hormonal balance<\/div>\n<div>EFA\u2019s are needed for the full functioning sex glands and for the formation of sex glands that are in the semen<\/div>\n<div>Deficiency can lead to chromosomal defects, subtle brain disorders such as dyslexia<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>EFA\u2019s<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>I wouldn\u2019t just recommend people start drinking gallons of oil, this needs to be advised by a nutritional expert so that you are doing what is correct for you and your unique and gorgeous body<\/div>\n<div>Omega 3\u2019s 6\u2019s 9\u2019s and the correct balance of each is dependent upon each individual<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>AREAS OF IMPORTANCE FOR A PRE-CONCEPTION DIET<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Adequate variety of proteins<\/div>\n<div>Avoidance of refined sugars and refined carbohydrates<\/div>\n<div>Avoidance of chemical hormones<\/div>\n<div>Avoidance of excessive\u00a0saturated fats<\/div>\n<div>Avoidance of excessive salt intake<\/div>\n<div>A good balance of alkali-promoting foods<\/div>\n<div>Avoidance of all allergens<\/div>\n<div>Plenty of fresh, purified water<\/div>\n<div>Avoid all coffee, alcohol and filthy cigarettes<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>STRESS MANAGEMENT <\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Look for ways to reduce stress and stop thinking about wanting any or all of the abovementioned<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>EXERCISE PROGRAM<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Look for ways to increase exercise everyday in life (keep dancing!)<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>LIFESTYLE CHANGES\/AWARENESS OF TYPES OF TOXINS<\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"> <\/span><\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">ENVIRONMENTAL<\/span><\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Heavy metals (you can have a hair analysis\/urine test)<\/div>\n<div>Industrial chemicals (in the air and water borne)<\/div>\n<div>Agrochemicals (in water supply\/spraying)<\/div>\n<div>Domestic (cleaners, renovations\/paints\/glues\/varnishes)<\/div>\n<div>Occupational (hairdressers, motor mechanics, farmers)<\/div>\n<div><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"> <\/span><\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">DIETARY <\/span><\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Chemically sprayed fruits and vegetables<\/div>\n<div>Food additives, colourings, sweeteners, artificiality<\/div>\n<div>Polluted water<\/div>\n<div><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"> <\/span><\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">SOCIAL<\/span><\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Caffeine<\/div>\n<div>Nicotine<\/div>\n<div>Alcohol<\/div>\n<div>Recreational drugs \u2013 it&#8217;s only 9 months at a time\u00a0in your whole life &#8230;. you are giving nothing up, you are giving LIFE instead<\/div>\n<div><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"> <\/span><\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">MEDICAL<\/span><\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Over the counter &#8211; Prescribed<\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>DETOXIFICATION<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Should be completed before 4 months preconception period<\/div>\n<div>Sperm and eggs need to mature in a toxin free environment<\/div>\n<div>Gentle detoxification \u2013 so not to affect hormonal levels (fasting is inappropriate)<\/div>\n<div>Use of liver detoxification (herbs\/nutrition\/fantastic Chinese medicine professional)<\/div>\n<div>Use off garlic\/onions and other specific foods<\/div>\n<div>Use of antioxidants<\/div>\n<div>Regular bowel movements\/adequate bowel flora for example:<\/div>\n<div>Adequate water<\/div>\n<div>Acidophilus\/bifidus lactobacilli<\/div>\n<div>Prebiotics and probiotics<\/div>\n<div>Gentle fibre<\/div>\n<div>No laxatives<\/div>\n<div>Bitter herbs\/digestive enzymes<\/div>\n<div>Chlorella\/wheat grass\/barley grass<\/div>\n<div><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"> <\/span><\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">HEAVY METALS<\/span><\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Lead \u2013 petrol fumes\/old paint<\/div>\n<div>Cadmium \u2013 active\/passive smoking<\/div>\n<div>Mercury \u2013 dental amalgam\/contaminated fish<\/div>\n<div>Aluminium \u2013 cookware\/antiperspirants\/soy milk\/antacids<\/div>\n<div>Nickel \u2013 body piercing\/tooth braces<\/div>\n<div>Copper \u2013 excessive in water pipes\/OCP (pill)\/UD\/smoking<\/div>\n<div>Iron \u2013 excessive in cookware<\/div>\n<div><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"> <\/span><\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">RADIATION<\/span><\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong> <\/strong><\/div>\n<div><strong>Non-iodising radiation (MOST COMMON)<\/strong><\/div>\n<div>Computer terminals<\/div>\n<div>TV\u2019s microwaves \/ radar<\/div>\n<div>Radio transmitters \/ mobile phone transmitters<\/div>\n<div>Ultra violet and infrared lights<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Crazy gremlins won&#8217;t let me space this out properly so that it is more enjoyable to read, they have decided they want to get warm and snuggly with the words instead and remain all squishy sqaushy, so i hope it is not too crammed for you to cope with and just as soon as i [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[33],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2077","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-radio-show-posts"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.belly.net.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2077","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.belly.net.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.belly.net.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.belly.net.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.belly.net.au\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=2077"}],"version-history":[{"count":25,"href":"http:\/\/www.belly.net.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2077\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2079,"href":"http:\/\/www.belly.net.au\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2077\/revisions\/2079"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.belly.net.au\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2077"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.belly.net.au\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2077"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.belly.net.au\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2077"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}