Food plays a powerful role during pre-conception, pre-natal and postpartum.
Pre-conception
According to the CDC, the number of fertility procedures have increased by 75% over the last 10 years. Nutrition plays a vital (and often under-estimated) role in fertility. Caffeine and alcohol can both halve the chances of conceiving while nutrient deficiencies can decrease sperm count and motility and embryo development. Food sensitivities can cause inflammation and swelling in the mucosal lining of the fallopian tubes, preventing the ovum’s movement to the uterus.
Dr Lene Hoj, an allergy specialist from Copenhagen saw 50 female patients become pregnant after specific elimination of their food sensitivities using the ALCAT test. At the Food Coach we use this same test to identify food sensitivities. We also devise a nutrition and lifestyle plan to correct nutrient deficiencies that could be contributing to infertility. Between IVF treatments we recommend undertaking our liver detoxification plan to help eliminate excess hormones and toxins.
If weight gain is a concern, we suggest losing weight prior to conception with one of our weight loss plans.
Pre-natal
Nutrition is key in optimizing pregnancy weight gain, preventing gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia and neurological birth defects as well as improving cognitive development of the fetus. Different trimesters require different nutrient levels and it is essential for a healthy pregnancy to incorporate these via diet and supplementation.
Postpartum
Requires a delicate balance between losing pregnancy weight and ensuring optimal intake of nutrients during lactation. A nutrition plan will be developed to help lose weight safely while incorporating the necessary food and nutrients to support the baby’s cognitive development, growth and immune system. The plan is devised to mitigate postpartum depression as well as increase energy levels. Tips on how to make quick nutrient-dense meals that promote weight loss, boost energy levels and improve mood will also be discussed.
