How to Choose the Right Prenatal Vitamins

You may associate pregnancy with the idea of “eating for two” and craving unusual foods as the baby grows. This may be a popular adage, but keep in mind the best source of health for you and your developing baby is a nutrient-rich diet. While it’s possible to obtain adequate amounts of vitamins and minerals from eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, many people do not. Legumes are rich in  protein, iron, folate, and calcium. Dark, leafy greens contain ample amounts of vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin A, calcium, iron, folate, and potassium. Berries are high in antioxidants, while foods like salmon provide fatty acids for brain health.  If these foods aren’t staples in our diet, you may consider supplementation.

 

Taking prenatal vitamins in preparation of your pregnancy is like an insurance plan. The eggs that are ovulated start on their development journey about three months prior to the cycle. Before you begin trying to conceive, you may want to speak with your doctor about the best prenatal supplement for you.  Prenatal vitamins are recommended if you are not using birth control methods to prevent pregnancy, just in the event a pregnancy occurs you will want to ensure optimal nutrients are available for the fetus’s development. 

What to Look for In a Prenatal Vitamin

 

A good prenatal should have various vitamins and minerals to support the health of the mother and the baby. While supplements vary in their ingredients, key items to look for include 

 

  • Vitamin A with the majority as beta carotene – extremely important for fetal vision development and immune function

 

  • Vitamin B12 – important for maintaining the health of the nervous system

 

  • Choline – supports the development of the baby’s brain and neural tube

 

  • Iron – needed to make hemoglobin, a substance in red blood cells that transports oxygen throughout your body

 

  • Methylfolate (instead of folic acid) – decreases the risk of preterm birth and congenital heart disease

 

  • Calcium – necessary for skeletal formation and growth as well as muscle, heart, and nerve development
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  • Magnesium – enables the growth of strong bones and teeth in the baby and also supports the mother by reducing blood pressure levels and reducing the risk of premature contractions

 

  • Selenium –  supports thyroid hormone metabolism, DNA synthesis and acts as an antioxidant protecting cells from damage and infection

 

  • Zinc – needed for cell division and tissue growth during baby’s development

 

  • Iodine – maintains normal thyroid function for both mother and baby

 

  • Biotin – required for the metabolism of glucose and amino acids and is essential in liver, skin, and nervous system healthy

 

Your doctor will be able to assist you in choosing the right dosage for you, as they will take into account your health, current diet, and any concerns that may warrant additional supplementation. 

 

Many prenatal vitamins also contain Vitamin D and/or DHA. Sufficient levels of vitamin D help ensure proper calcium absorption. DHA, or Docosahexaenoic acid, is an omega-3 fatty acid essential for brain development during pregnancy.  While these two ingredients are beneficial, most supplements do not contain adequate amounts.  You will want to consult with your doctor to determine if you need an additional supplement. 

What to Avoid in Your Prenatal Vitamins

 

A good rule of thumb when choosing supplements is to look for those as natural as possible. Avoid those that have food colorings or dyes which are unnecessary and petrochemicals, hydrocarbon derivatives, and coal tar. These may act as endocrine disrupting chemicals and affect fertility along with having adverse effects on the immune system. 

 

Other ingredients in supplements you’ll want to avoid are hydrogenated oils like soybean, canola, and rapeseed.  These are sometimes added to supplements to preserve shelf life and save costs. The hydrogenated oils are considered trans fats and have been shown to cause health concerns such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and possibly infertility in both men and women

 

Folic acid is added to some brands of prenatal supplements. You may be aware folate is important for prenatal health and the baby’s growth and development, but folic acid is the synthetic form of folate. The body has a more difficult time breaking down the folic acid (the synthetic version of the vitamin), and unmetabolized folic acid (UMFA) can build up in the blood and cause health concerns. It’s recommended instead to seek out supplements which provide methylfolate as a source of folate.  

 

Your doctor will be able to recommend brands that are appropriate for you as they take into consideration your health history and nutritional needs. If you are local to the southern California area, I see patients in my offices in Los Angeles, Orange, and Riverside Counties where I offer comprehensive integrative fertility treatments. You can contact us for an appointment here.

How Eating Organic Can Impact Your Fertility

Taking initiative around your health when you want to become a parent is a responsible choice.  It’s wise to mind your health and set a good foundation for the little one you are helping to create. The list of what to eat and what not to eat during pre-pregnancy and while expecting can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. 

Why Does Organic Matter?

Choosing organic foods can limit your exposure to pesticides, which can act as endocrine disruptors and carcinogens within the body. Higher levels of pesticides can also be linked to lower pregnancy rates and/or lower birth weights. 

 

Conventionally grown produce is sprayed with multiple types of pesticides many of which have been implicated in causing things like cancer and influencing infertility in men and women.   In 2017 The EARTH (environment and reproductive health study) showed eating higher pesticide residue vegetables and fruits was associated with lower rates of pregnancy and live birth following infertility treatment. These findings were consistent with prior animal studies displaying a similar result.  

What is the Dirty Dozen and Clean 15?

A simple guideline to follow is using what’s called the “Dirty Dozen” and “Clean 15” lists. Every year the Environmental Working Group releases Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen guides. In 2020 EWG analyzed 47 items and compiled their list. 

The dirty dozen were the top 12 fruits and vegetables with the highest pesticide content in the analysis. 

  1. Strawberry – rich in antioxidants
  2. Spinach – packed with iron, folate, and zinc
  3. Kale – high in iron, folate, calcium, and manganese 
  4. Nectarines – rich in selenium and vitamin C
  5. Apples –  high in vitamin C and fiber
  6. Grapes – packed with vitamins C and K and rich in antioxidants
  7. Peaches – rich in selenium and vitamin C
  8. Cherries – excellent source of vitamin C, zinc, calcium, iron, magnesium and vitamin B6.
  9. Pears – high in vitamin C and fiber
  10. Tomatoes – an excellent source of lycopene
  11. Celery – high in anti-inflammatories and fiber
  12. Potatoes – sweet potatoes are high in vitamin C, zinc, calcium, iron, magnesium and vitamin B6 as well as antioxidants
  13. Hot peppers ( an extra item on the list this year)  – rich in vitamins A, B, C, and E and some studies suggest capsaicin acts as an antioxidant to protect your cells and helps tamp down inflammation

The “Clean 15” conversely had the lowest levels of pesticides. ⁠

  1. Avocado – great source of vitamin E, antioxidants, and monounsaturated fats
  2. Sweet corn – contains folic acid, zeaxanthin, and pathogenic acid
  3. Pineapple – high in bromelain, an anti-inflammatory and anti-coagulation
  4. Onions – high in sulfur which helps promote the antioxidant glutathione
  5. Papaya – contains folate, vitamin A, magnesium, copper, and pantothenic acid
  6. Sweet peas frozen – rich in magnesium, potassium, and calcium
  7. Eggplant – high in fiber, potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B-6, and antioxidants
  8. Asparagus – rich in folate 
  9. Cauliflower – high in vitamins C, K, B6, and folate
  10. Cantaloupe – an excellent source of beta carotene, vitamin C, and folate
  11. Broccoli – rich in iron and folate
  12. Mushrooms – source of vitamin D
  13. Cabbage – an excellent source of beta carotene, vitamin E, and folic acid
  14. Honeydew melon – contains a high amount of vitamin C
  15. Kiwi – rich in vitamin C and folate

Don’t misunderstand that the Clean 15 is free from pesticide use. Why is the Clean 15 somewhat “safer” then? It’s because many, although not all, of these fruits and vegetables have a layer of protection in the outer layer of their skin. Others, such as cabbage and asparagus, contain naturally occurring enzymes that help to protect against pests and therefore require fewer pesticides to protect them during commercial growing. 

How to Make Organic Food More Affordable

Many of my patients have expressed concern about the increased cost of shopping organic.  One thing I would like to stress is not to let the list prevent you from adding a variety of vegetables and fruits to your diet. There are ways you can cut costs without cutting out these important sources of nutrients from your diet. 

 

  • Visit farmers’ markets or get to know local farms or farmers  Many farms do not have the organic label but do in fact use organic practices.  

 

  • Buy seasonal produce as its typically less expensive when in-season.

 

  • Look for frozen organic fruits and vegetables.  Frozen produce tends to be lower in cost but still high in nutrients because they are flash-frozen. 

 

  • Look for store brand organic produce or budget-friendly stores. Certain stores are known to be more expensive (Whole Foods, for example)  or more affordable (such as Aldi or Trader Joes). While in the stores shop the sales and look for in-season produce. When you purchase out of season, that will typically mean a higher price tag because of the cost in transportation to get the items to your local market.

 

  • Stick to basics. You will do better with your grocery budget purchasing organic, whole foods instead of splurging on organic snack chips, organic cookies, and so on. These items tend to be expensive, and even though they may be organic, they tend to have unnecessary sugars and ingredients that should be enjoyed on rare occasions.  Remember, we are looking to nourish the body with food. It’s best to learn to satisfy your sweet tooth with fruits (one of my favorites is fresh organic berries tossed with some high-quality balsamic vinegar for about 10 minutes to draw out the extra sweetness and then served with organic, full-fat, grass-fed Greek yogurt or coconut milk or nut milk of you are dairy-free and a small amount of farm-fresh honey. Be sure to choose yogurt that is free of added sugars.)

Remember each little step to reduce your exposure, is a step in the right direction. Check out the Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen on www.ewg.org for more information. If you would like additional support around your own fertility journey and how integrative medicine might support you, contact our offices to schedule a consult with Dr. Shala Salem.

Yoga for Fertility

The journey through infertility can be filled with stress, anxiety, sadness, frustration, and loneliness. I have heard from couples that they feel like their bodies are broken or aren’t good enough because of their fertility struggles or have tried to find ways to detach themselves from the disappointments of unsuccessful attempts at trying to conceive on their own. Yoga is an excellent tool to facilitate calm and help support patients on their fertility journey. The practice of yoga may allow people to reconnect to themselves, to each other, and to find a sense of community.  

 

Many women who are experiencing infertility feel stress and disconnectedness from their body. Yoga is a way to reduce stress and rebuild the mind-body connection.  Our emotions don’t just exist in our minds, we can also carry them with us in our bodies.  This can show up as muscle tension, physical pain, digestive issues, or fatigue.  You helps you to avoid holding un-processed emotion in your body. 

Asanas Allow Reconnection and Physical Benefits

 

Researchers have found our minds may cope with difficult emotions by disconnecting from a sense of self-awareness and body-awareness. A goal of healing and wholeness becomes reconnecting with your body in a safe, comfortable, healthy way. Yoga is excellent at filling this need. The physical poses, or asanas, in yoga, allow you to connect to your body through movement and breath. 

 

The yoga asanas also help to strengthen the body and improve blood flow to the reproductive organs. Some research has shown improved blood flow and circulation as it relates to a higher abdominal temperature that may correlate to enhanced fertility. 

 

Some asanas particularly helpful for fertility include those that are hip openers, such as lunges, butterfly pose, and the reclining bound angle pose, and those that bring calming energy to the pelvis such as the legs up the wall pose, the seated forward bend, and the standing forward bend. 

 

Similarly, some yoga poses are also beneficial for stimulating the endocrine system and restoring hormonal balance where needed. This applies to men as well as women. Choosing yoga poses that target specific trigger points may help to regulate monthly cycles, improve libido, rebalance thyroid function, stabilize blood sugar, and support fertility health. To help support hormone balance, you might select poses such as fish pose, sun salutations, garland pose, mariachi’s pose, and the bound angle pose. Illustrations of these can be found here

Yogic Breathing and Stress 

 

Yoga’s role in stress reduction is well documented. Yoga is a multidimensional system that includes physical poses, breathing, and meditation. Yogic breathing is also known as pranayama and translates from the Sanskrit ‘to control life force.’ Essentially, this refers to breathing in certain patterns that require you to inhale and exhale in ways that draw greater awareness to your breath. There are many different types of pranayama, and each has a specific role, such as restoring balance or focusing energy. 

 

Deep breathing allows us to reduce stress and manage body functions like blood pressure, immune health, and concentration.  Ujjayi breath is probably the most common type of pranayama used in foundational yoga classes and helps to bring focus to your mind and breath. This is also used to calm your mind during meditative practices. 

Yoga as a Sense of Community

 

While yoga can be practiced on your own, you may benefit from practicing in a class setting where you can connect with a supportive community of others sharing similar experiences. You may choose to seek out classes designed for restorative or gentle hatha yoga, as these would be most supportive of the asanas, breathwork, and meditations supporting stress release.  Sometimes knowing you are not alone in your journey is helpful. While your experiences are unique to you, connecting with others who may be sharing a common story is important.  

 

Research has shown that women who practice emotion-focused coping skills, such as reducing stress, may experience improved results when participating in fertility treatments. Sometimes the problem itself cannot be immediately resolved the way we want; instead, we need to examine the way we respond to the situation. Having resources such as yoga, breathing, and mediation available for stress reduction may be valuable. 

 

Resources for incorporating yoga and meditation into your habits can be found on Dr. Shala’s integrative fertility website along with this beginner’s yoga sequence. If you are interested in a consultation to see if integrative techniques or other treatments such as IVF can further support your fertility journey, consider scheduling a consultation with Dr. Shala Salem at PRC.

 

October is Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month

Losing a pregnancy or child is one of the most painful experiences a person can go through in life.  Pregnancy loss is often followed by a period of grief where a range of emotions can be felt, including guilt, anger, or even depression.

If you or someone you know has experienced the loss of a child, know that you are not alone.  Here are some statistics that show how common loss is:

  • 1 in 4 mothers report experiencing perinatal loss, however, the number may be as high as 50%  (Jaffe& Diamond, 2011)  
  • Approximately 24,000  mothers will experience a stillborn, or  loss after 20 weeks gestation. 
  • According to the CDC,  an additional 23,000 mothers  a year will experience infant loss during the first 28 days of their child’s life (MacDorman &Gregory, 2015).  

There are no  clear steps on how to navigate a loss, as each woman’s journey to healing is unique. Losing a child brings about difficult feelings and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. There is no typical time period that it takes, it’s different for every family. It’s important to allow yourself or anyone who is experiencing a loss time to feel the loss and go through the grieving process.  Often family members will grieve in different ways and it’s important to honor each person’s way of grieving, without judgement or expectation.  

Moving forward after the loss of a child can feel impossible. Often mothers and partners may feel stuck with no end in sight to their pain.   Couples should be supported in their choices to start trying for a baby again, or choosing to take some time before trying. Some couples may want to try to conceive soon after their loss.  For them, it may be a way of helping them ease the pain or shorten the grief period.  While other couples may choose not to try. 

Regardless of how the couple processes their loss, it’s important to acknowledge that some form of support is necessary to facilitate healing.  Most people will find comfort in getting support to cope with the emotions that accompany the grieving process.  Support can come in many forms.  It may be seeking help from a mental health professional, a support group, a spiritual community or a trusted friend.  Professional help is a proven way to work through the emotions that come with pregnancy loss.  For those that are hesitant to get professional help, it’s recommended they talk to someone in their life and find comfort in sharing what they are experiencing.

Here are some examples of those you can turn to for help and support after a loss

  • A close friend
  • Partner/ spouse
  • Family member
  • Spiritual leader
  • Counselor 
  • Psychologist 
  • Therapist 
  • Support Groups

It is common for mothers to blame themselves for the loss.  They may experience feelings of guilt and shame for not doing things that could have “prevented” the loss from happening.  These feelings may cause the mother or family member to retreat, isolate, and not seek support from others around them.  This will likely intensify the feelings of loss and grief, by spending time alone without support it may be more difficult to process your pain or find comfort.  

Seeking help and sharing your pain is not easy to do.  But the path toward healing includes working through your emotions and learning to process your grief in a healthy way.  For some people, family, cultural norms, or your beliefs may prevent you from asking for help. However, seeking help is the best step you can take in coping with your loss and grief.  Speaking to someone about your emotions may help in making sense of the loss and having your feelings validated.  Support during this time will help lessen the feelings of guilt and help to comfort you.  Remembering that you do not have to face the loss alone allows you to open up to receive support.

When working through loss and grief it is so important to prioritize self care.  Taking care of your body is as important as taking care of your mental and emotional health.   A healthy body can help promote balanced emotions and a healthy mind. Taking care of yourself does not mean that you are forgetting about the loss of your child.  You are healing yourself and the memory of your child will always live within your heart. 

Here are some examples to support your self care:

  • Eating a healthy, nutrient-dense diet
  • Exercising
  • Going for a walk outside
  • Meditation 
  • Yoga
  • Getting enough sleep

For those supporting a family member or loved one who has experienced loss there are many ways that you can help.  Here are a few tips:

  • Arrange for a meal delivery 
  • Refer to them as parents (acknowledge them on Mother’s Day and Father’s day)
  • Ask them if they want to tell you their story
  • Be present sit with them and listen 
  • Ask them what you can do to be helpful or to help them heal
  • If they have living children ask if you can help babysit or take them on an outing.
  • When they feel ready, join them in one of their favorite activities

Looking for help may be challenging when you may not know where to begin.

Here’s a list of resources:

This October, reach out to a mother or family that has experienced loss. Ask how you can support them in their healing. If you personally find yourself grieving the loss of your child, please know that you are not alone in this journey. Help is available all around you and you will heal on your own time. 

Q & A with Dr. Shala Salem

Our in-house integrative fertility expert, Dr. Shala Salem helps couples through their fertility journey with treatments and suggestions for lifestyle changes, so they can start a healthy family.  In addition to offering state of the art technology to help our patients conceive, we offer integrative fertility consultations. We can help patients prepare their body and mind to maximize the chance of a successful pregnancy. This is referred to as integrative fertility. Here are some common questions that we get from patients.

Q: What should I eat to support my fertility?

A: The general nutrition principles for preconception are the same, whether you are trying naturally or going through fertility treatments. I usually recommend that prospective parents focus their diets on whole, fresh, and natural foods. Eat a lot of colorful vegetables and fruits, ideally, if you can get them locally and seasonally. Enjoy some nuts and seeds. 

Eat less meat. If you do eat meat or dairy products, choose organic because the non-organic ones can be high in pesticides and environmental toxins. Enjoy high-quality fish and seafood, but avoid high mercury ones, such as tuna and king mackerel. Also, cut sugary, fried, processed, canned, or prepackaged foods. 

Your nutrition plan should also take your health sftatus into account, especially factors that led you to seek fertility treatment in the first place. For example, if you have polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), you may do better with a lower-carbohydrate diet. If you struggle with PCOS or other conditions that could be treated with nutrition, I recommend working with a nutritionist to customize your diet program. 

Nutrition is one of the most important building blocks, both for pregnancy and raising children. I recommend cooking at home as much as possible so you can choose the ingredients that go into your food.

Q: What fertility supplements do you recommend?

A: When I see my patients during their preconception appointments, I use labs to identify nutritional deficiencies. Based on the labs, I help them get to optimal rather than just normal levels. Your bloodwork may indicate a need for therapeutic doses to achieve healthy levels of these nutrients. Many common nutritional deficiencies can affect fertility. 

Iron deficiency is widespread among women of reproductive age, and it can affect fertility 1

Many North Americans are also deficient in vitamin D, which is important for fertility for both prospective moms and dads. A recent study found that among women seeking fertility treatments such as IVF, those with healthy vitamin D levels had significantly higher live birth rates 2

Magnesium is an essential mineral for general health, hormone balance, and pregnancy 3. It is also one that is harder to get through food alone. 

Folic acid is a standard recommendation for any prenatal regimes, although I now recommend methylfolate (MTHF) instead. 

Generally, a high-quality prenatal multivitamin with methylfolate, fish oil, magnesium, and vitamin D should cover your nutritional base. Antioxidants such as vitamin C and Coenzyme Q10 have also been shown to boost fertility for both genders. However, the best answer to this question would be to work with an integrative fertility specialist to optimize your nutrition status.

Q: What are natural ways to support my hormone balance?

A: Many women struggle with hormone imbalance symptoms such as premenstrual syndrome, acne, heavy bleeding, and fibroids. 

The modern diet and lifestyle expose us to a lot of substances that act like estrogen while depleting our progesterone. The good news is that you can fix much of the hormone imbalances naturally by:

  • Managing stress – stress reduces progesterone, worsening hormone imbalance
  • Using nontoxic home and body care products that are free of parabens, phthalates, and perfumes
  • Eating organic meats to avoid pesticides and environmental contaminants
  • Eating a lot of fiber and staying regular promotes hormone balance, as constipation hinder the elimination of old hormones 
  • Filter your water with a filter that removes hormone disruptors. To learn about which ones I recommend, check out my resources page.

Q: Can we improve the quality of sperm and eggs without drugs?

A: During fertility treatments, it might look like the prospective moms do most of the work, but prospective dads can also do their part to maximize the chance of success. In other words, both partners can improve the quality of their sperm and eggs with these tips. 

  • Managing stress. Don’t forget mental health and stress management for prospective dads, especially during fertility treatments. Couples counseling and stress management practices will come in handy during this time.
  • Sleeping well is essential for hormone balance and reducing oxidative stress.
  • Avoiding hormone disruptors and toxic exposures, including at work
  • Eating a healthy diet with the rainbow color of plants to increase antioxidants
  • Drinking less coffee. Excess caffeine intake may reduce sperm quality 4.
  • Maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly
  • Not smoking and reducing alcohol as much as possible 
  • Making sure you consume enough zinc and folate. These nutrients are very important for the quality of both sperms and eggs, and overall pregnancy.
  • Antioxidant supplements, such as CoQ10 and lutein, may be helpful for some couples.

Oxidative stress can damage the DNA and reduce the quality of sperms and eggs 5,6. Therefore, these low oxidative stress lifestyle tips will improve the chance of having high-quality embryos.

The key to a fertility-supporting lifestyle is to build healthy habits and create a supportive network around you. If you’d like to schedule an integrative fertility consult, contact us today.

References:

1. Chavarro JE, Rich-Edwards JW, Rosner BA, Willett WC. Iron intake and risk of ovulatory infertility. Obstet Gynecol. 2006;108(5):1145-1152. doi:10.1097/01.AOG.0000238333.37423.ab

2. Chu J, Gallos I, Tobias A, et al. Vitamin D and assisted reproductive treatment outcome: a prospective cohort study. Reprod Health. 2019;16(1):106. doi:10.1186/s12978-019-0769-7

3. Tonick S, Muneyyirci-Delale O. Magnesium in Women’s Health and Gynecology. OJOG. 2016;06(05):325-333. doi:10.4236/ojog.2016.65041

4. Ricci E, Viganò P, Cipriani S, et al. Coffee and caffeine intake and male infertility: a systematic review. Nutr J. 2017;16(1):37. doi:10.1186/s12937-017-0257-2

5. Alahmar AT. Role of Oxidative Stress in Male Infertility: An Updated Review. J Hum Reprod Sci. 2019;12(1):4-18. doi:10.4103/jhrs.JHRS_150_18

6. Ruder EH, Hartman TJ, Goldman MB. Impact of oxidative stress on female fertility. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol. 2009;21(3):219-222. doi:10.1097/gco.0b013e32832924ba

What to eat to improve PCOS symptoms

It is estimated that 10% of women of reproductive age are impacted by polycystic ovarian syndrome, also known as PCOS.  This condition has to do with a hormonal imbalance where high amounts of androgen and insulin can be found in the body.  Though the cause of PCOS is unknown the hormonal abnormalities can lead to metabolic and reproductive challenges.

Symptoms of PCOS include:

  • Irregular periods 
  • Increased hair growth on the face, chest, back, stomach 
  • Severe acne or oily skin
  • Weight gain
  • Thinning hair or hair loss on the head
  • Insulin resistance
  • High cholesterol and/or blood pressure

Research shows that a healthy diet and physical activity can help to manage PCOS and improve symptoms.  Eating a balanced diet that is rich with high-fiber vegetables and fruits, lean protein and anti-inflammatory foods can help to lower your blood sugar, improve your body’s use of insulin and regulate your hormone levels.  This food pyramid created by Dr. Joel Furham is a great example of food choices that will support managing PCOS:

Food Pyramid

 

Foods to avoid if you have PCOS are:

  • Refined carbohydrates and processed foods
  • High sugar snacks and drinks
  • Inflammatory foods such as processed red meats

In addition to eating well, getting plenty of daily physical activity (shoot for 10,000 steps!) can also help.  

If have PCOS and have been struggling to conceive, contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Toxins in Your Beauty Products & Your Fertility

When women or couples experience challenges with fertility, they look for possible causes. While there may be medical reasons for a woman’s difficulties in getting pregnant, research has shown other factors such as stress and environmental toxins may also play a role. 

Many men and women encounter toxins in their personal care routines every day, often unaware of the impact these could have on their fertility.  Research has identified four primary areas of fertility that are impacted by toxins in personal care products. Learn more about these effects below. 

Endocrine Disruption and Reproductive Harm

The endocrine system is the body’s chemical messenger system. It is responsible for transmitting information that makes hormones. These hormones control everything from moods, growth, development, metabolism, and reproduction. 

Many cosmetics and personal care products contain synthetic byproducts such as parabens, phthalates, glycol ethers, fragrances, cyclosiloxanes, and bisphenol A (BPA).  These can act as endocrine disruptors causing interference with hormone signaling, production, and excretion. 

What’s In Your Personal Care Products?

An article by the Environmental Working Group cited women use an average of 12 products containing 168 unique ingredients every day. Men use about six products daily with 85 unique ingredients. Their study shows that some of the chemicals in personal care and cosmetic products have been linked to health problems.

The most common effects of exposure to endocrine disruptors appear to be reproductive and developmental effects. These include ovulation disorders, fibroids, disruption of thyroid function, male sexual dysfunction, low sperm count, possible link to cancer, and low birth weight in babies.

Common Toxins In Personal Care Products

  • Parabens are perhaps one of the most common toxins added to personal care products as a preservative. They can act as estrogens and disrupt hormone signaling. They have been linked to potential fertility issues in men and women, congenital disabilities, a link to breast cancer, as well as a link to more aggressive tumor growth and the formation of malignant cancers. Many moisturizers, facial cleansers, sunscreens, deodorants, shaving gels, kinds of toothpaste, cosmetics, and other personal care products contain parabens. 
  • Phthalates are commonly found in some cosmetic fragrance mixtures, nail polishes, hairsprays, after-shaves, deodorants, and other personal care products like shampoos, conditioners, and moisturizers. Phthalates have been found to cause reproductive abnormalities such as reduced testosterone and sperm quality in men and early puberty in girls.
  • Formaldehyde is a preservative commonly added to products to add to shelf life and prevent mold and bacteria growth. Nearly one in five cosmetic products contains a substance that generates formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. These products include shampoos, conditioners, bubble baths, and other personal care products, including those marketed for children. Formaldehyde and formaldehyde like chemicals are also found in hair straighteners and “smoothing” creams marketing for the BIPOC community. Exposure to formaldehyde can include risks of reduced fertility and increased risk to the fetus. 
  • Triclosan and triclocarban are chemicals found in a variety of products.  Triclosan was banned in antibacterial soaps in 2017. However, they are still found in some dish soaps, personal care products, and toothpaste. It is used in a variety of products but won’t be on the label. To avoid triclosan do not buy products listed as antibacterial. Although this might seem tempting and should make things cleaner, its all harm and no good in this situation.  Even at low levels, these chemicals have been shown to interfere with thyroid signaling and male and female sex hormone signaling leading to reproductive abnormalities. 

Unfortunately, the cosmetic industry in the United States is largely self-regulated at this time, and there is not any restriction on the use of harmful chemicals in personal care products.. In February 2020, the California Assembly reintroduced the Toxic-Free Chemicals bill under A.B. 2762 which proposes banning 12 toxic ingredients, such as mercury and formaldehyde, from the beauty and personal care products sold in California. This is the third time such a bill has been proposed, earlier iterations of the bill being blocked in April 2019 and failing in January 2020. You can read about their efforts here. 

Toxins such as those listed are readily absorbed into your skin and metabolized by your body. Because you use these products daily, the exposure to such toxins compounds over time creating a greater effect of harm on your body. 

Defend yourself against toxins

Your best defense is taking the time to educate yourself about the products you use and making changes to clean products. Although this article specifically addressed personal care products, environmental toxins are all around us. To learn more and find out how you can reduce your exposure you can find additional references and articles here on our website.

To start educating yourself about toxins in your personal care products and other purchases you make, I suggest the Environmental Working Group’s website www.ewg.org.  EWG is a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to protecting human health and the environment. They also have a database created specifically for products. Some are EWG Verified, meaning the products are free from harmful chemicals, provide full transparency in labeling, and follow good manufacturing practices. Other products rated on a scale from 1 to 10 indicating least to most harmful in terms of your health. You can enter your current products in the search in the Skin Deep Database and see how they measure up. 

Reducing or eliminating toxins in personal care products is one facet of integrative medicine we suggest to women and couples we work with at our clinic.  If you are interested in a consultation to see if integrative techniques or IVF can further support your fertility treatment journey, contact us to set up a consult with Dr. Shala Salem.

6 Ways Mindfulness Can Improve Your Health

When your body, mind and spirit are in good health you can give yourself the best chance at a successful fertility treatment. Health trends come and go, they can be challenging to implement long-term, or carry a high price tag that isn’t manageable for most.  But one trend for improving health that likely has staying power is mindfulness. Why?  Because it’s easy to try, free or low-cost, and it now has plenty of evidence-based research backing it.  If you are considering or starting fertility treatment, it may be worth your while to start a mindfulness practice.

Here are six ways that mindfulness has been shown to improve health.

Less Stress

Studies have shown that mindfulness-based stress reduction can be helpful to reduce symptoms associated with stress, anxiety, and depression. 

Heart Healthy

A regular mindfulness practice can help to lower blood pressure and has been recommended by the American Heart Association as an adjunct treatment for heart disease.

Improved Immune Function

Regular meditation may help your body heal and fight disease.  Studies have shown meditation to have a positive impact on immune response.  

Mental Focus

Meditation can reduce reactivity to stress or challenging situations, at the same time, it makes it easy to draw your attention back when distractions happen.  This is why proponents of meditation say they experience a clear, focused mind is a benefit of the practice.  

Increased Emotional Regulation and Self-Control

Mindfulness trains the practitioner to slow down and be in the present moment.  By developing the skill of self-awareness and observation, you are able to be less reactive and more in control of emotions.

Slows Cell Aging

Cell aging occurs naturally over time and can increase with stress and disease. Research has shown that meditation could help slow this process.

Now that you know some of the physical and mental benefits of mindfulness, it’s time to integrate it into your life.  Building a mindfulness practice can happen over time.  You can start small with just a few minutes of meditation each day.   Begin by sitting calmly and breathing slow with your eyes closed, for just a few minutes.  Add this into your morning routine or a time of the day that makes sense for you.  If you need more guidance, try a yoga, tai chi, or qi gong class to adopt mindfulness techniques.  Practice builds consistency, but for most people, it will take time to build your practice, so be patient with yourself.  Even 20 minutes a day can have a huge benefit on your overall well-being.  

If you are interested in learning more integrative approaches to IVF and fertility, schedule a consult with Dr. Shala at PRC.

Benefits of The Mediterranean Diet for Fertility

What Is The Mediterranean Diet?

In our practice, Dr. Shala Salem works with patients seeking integrative fertility support. Often they ask if there are specific foods the couple can eat to improve their chances of conception. Many of my clients have had success following The Mediterranean Diet for fertility. 

An integrative approach to health takes into account the whole person, including all aspects of lifestyle. How and what we eat plays a crucial role in the body’s ability to heal and function optimally. While nothing can guarantee a couple’s success in conception, the Mediterranean Diet is a sound way of eating that can be sustained throughout a lifetime for good health. 

What Foods Are Included?

The Mediterranean Diet has its roots in ancient times. Farmers in the area known as the Mediterranean basin commonly ate foods like sheep cheese, vegetables, olives, nuts, fresh fish, and very little meat or bread. 

To incorporate this way of eating into your lifestyle, focus on eating fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, healthy fats such as olive oil, moderate amounts of fish, seafood, dairy, eggs, and poultry. Red meat and simple carbohydrates are limited. You can find some resources about getting started here

Choose Fresh, Whole Foods

One of the most important things to remember is that the Mediterranean Diet features fresh, organic, minimally processed foods. When fresh foods are not available, opt for foods that have been flash-frozen to retain most of the nutrients.

A typical “western diet” full of highly processed foods is usually unfavorable to conception. Processed foods are likely to contain trans-fats, sugar, pesticides, BPA, and other ingredients that have been found to adversely affect metabolism and ovulation. 

Enjoy Your Meals

The culture of the Mediterranean is also important to mention. Imagine the pleasure of enjoying fresh, healthy meals, eating slowly, and spending time in the company and conversation with friends. This is the type of mindset you will want to have while eating. Allow yourself to taste each of the flavors on your plate and take time between bites. 

Having a slow, leisurely meal is unlike the way most of us Americans tend to eat. We are much more likely to grab a bite and eat while working or eat a take-out meal in our car while running errands.  By slowing down during mealtimes and reducing stress you begin an integrative approach to fertility.  

Benefits of The Mediterranean Diet for Fertility

Health Benefits for Women

Foods like broccoli, asparagus, brussels sprouts, and eggs are all rich in folate and B6. These minerals and vitamins have a positive relationship with the possibility of conception. Vitamin D is also essential when trying to conceive. Vitamin D helps to increase both progesterone and estrogen levels, which regulate menstrual cycles and ovulation. Dietary sources like oily fish (salmon, herring, sardines), egg yolks, and mushrooms are rich sources of Vitamin D. 

The Mediterranean Diet is high in antioxidants because of the large number of fresh vegetables and fruits recommended. This creates a healthier endometrium; or mucus membrane of the uterus, preparing it for embryo implantation.

Health Benefits for Men

Women aren’t the only ones who benefit from monitoring their eating habits while trying to conceive. Men’s dietary choices play a role in conception as well. In men, Vitamin D supports both the semen quality and semen count. It can also increase their levels of testosterone, which boosts libido. 

Stress and Vitamin and Mineral Levels

Trying to conceive or facing infertility treatments can be stressful for men and women. Stress is known to deplete essential vitamins and minerals within the body, which can hinder pregnancy efforts. The B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin E, magnesium, zinc, and iron are the most common nutrients affected by stress. 

All of these play a vital role in fertility, as well as overall wellness. Remember, part of the Mediterranean Diet is slower, more leisurely meals. So being less stressed during meals will hopefully have a ripple effect throughout your day and allow you to retain some all-important building blocks within your body. 

The Mediterranean Diet has numerous health benefits, and they reach far beyond improving fertility success. It’s never too early for men or women to adopt this lifestyle, but it is recommended to be more intentional about your choices at least three months before trying to conceive. 
If you find you need additional support with your fertility journey, consider setting up a consultation with Dr. Shala Salem.

Acupunture and Fertility Treatments

What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient technique practiced in Traditional Chinese medicine. According to the practice, there are over 2,000 acupuncture points each connected by different pathways or meridians. Energy, or qi, flows through the pathways promoting overall health, but when the paths become blocked, this can lead to poor health or disease.

Acupuncture seeks to reopen the pathways and stimulate the energy flow by inserting thin, metallic needles into the points and then stimulating them manually or electronically. The stimulation is sometimes augmented by heat, pressure, or friction. Chemicals from the body’s central nervous system are released into the bloodstream, muscles, spinal cord, and brain, triggering the body’s natural healing abilities. 

Many diagnoses, including digestive, neurological, musculoskeletal, respiratory, emotional, and gynecological conditions, may benefit from acupuncture. Some studies have shown that acupuncture, when used in conjunction with other fertility treatments, may increase success.

Acupuncture and Infertility Treatments

Acupuncture may help with infertility treatments by increasing blood flow to the reproductive organs, balancing hormones, and reducing stress. It appears to be most beneficial when started in the three months before beginning other treatments, such as IUI or IVF, and while couples are undergoing supplemental care.  

Acupuncture appears to support a variety of conditions that appear to play a role in infertility. These include hormone imbalance which affects the uterus and ovaries, thyroid issues, irregular menstruation, ovarian cysts, fibroids, blood stagnation, endometriosis, problems with the fallopian tubes, obesity, stress, and low sperm count and sperm motility.  

Increased Blood Flow

For patients who may be preparing for in-vitro fertilization or embryo transfer, acupuncture can be used to increase endometrial blood flow. The additional blood flow to the uterus helps the lining develop and thicken, preparing it to receive the embryo and increasing the chances of a successful transfer.  

Hormone Balancing

Acupuncture stimulates the central nervous system and triggers the release of neurotransmitters, endorphins, and insulin sensitivity. This can help patients diagnosed with PCOS or who might need support in normalizing reproductive hormones and ovulation. 

Patients who may have hypothyroidism or high FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) levels and receive acupuncture benefit from improved egg quality.  

Acupuncture has also been found to be very useful in the treatment of insulin sensitivity. Patients who are insulin resistant and obese may experience difficulty with fertility due to irregular ovulation or no ovulation. 

Acupuncture and Infertility in Men

Men may also play a role in the fertility success of a couple. If this is the case, acupuncture may support the sperm count, sperm motility, and sperm morphology. Improving blood flow and balancing hormones through acupuncture can positively affect these areas, increasing the likelihood of conception. 

Stress and Anxiety Relief

For many couples trying to conceive and pregnancy can be a stressful time. This can be especially true of couples experiencing infertility. Stress has been found to contribute to additional difficulties in conception. Stress plays a role in lowered libido, a reduced immune system, decreased sperm quality, hormonal disruption, and disordered eating. 

In the same way, acupuncture balances hormones through the release of endorphins, it also serves to reduce stress and anxiety. Endorphins act as natural pain killers within the body. They work with the body through the central nervous system to decrease reactions to stress and regulate body systems like the immune system, digestive system, emotions, moods, and sexuality.

We are now offering integrative fertility consultations at PRC. Our goal is to support you as a whole person focusing on your mind, body, and spirit throughout your fertility journey. Acupuncture may work best when used alongside our other modalities. Please contact us for a treatment plan designed especially for you. 

Additional Resources

For some additional reading, click here:

https://www.reproductivefacts.org/news-and-publications/patient-fact-sheets-and-booklets/documents/fact-sheets-and-info-booklets/acupuncture-and-infertility-treatment/

Lifestyle Tips to Boost Fertility Treatment Success

A fertility journey can feel like a lot of uncertainty. You may feel a lot of anxiety with the ups and
downs. Many couples find it stressful and overwhelming. The good news is that decades of
research have shown that there is a lot you can do lifestyle-wise to boost your chance of
success with fertility treatments. Here are some simple and evidence-based tips.


1) Eat healthier
Nutrition is one of the best building blocks for a healthy pregnancy, so you want to prepare your
body by improving your overall diet. I encourage home cooking as often as possible to ensure
that you always have healthy and nutritious meals. I also advise cutting back on sugar, alcohol,
and processed foods in favor of more whole and nutrient-dense foods, such as vegetables and
fruits.
Eat more of
● Colorful vegetables and fruits. Even better if you can get them fresh and local.
● Whole grains and legumes
● Clean and organic meat, poultry, and fish
● Nuts and seeds
Eat less of
● Fast foods
● Pre-packaged foods, such as canned or frozen foods
● Packaged snacks like chips and crackers
● Candies
● Sugar and sugar-containing foods


2) Use clean cosmetic and household products
Hormone disruptors are chemicals that can throw off your hormones and reduce your fertility.
These include parabens, phthalates, BPA (bisphenol-A), perfumes, and triclosan, to name a
few. You can find them in typical cosmetics, soap, shampoo, sunscreens, and cleaning and
laundry products.
Since consumers have become more conscious of these hormone disruptors, you have a big list
of clean options to choose from nowadays. A great resource for this is the Environmental
Working Group at ewg.org. You can check the products you already have around the house on
there and shop from their safe EWG-verified list .


3) Eat the rainbow
I emphasize eating the rainbow—as many colors of plants as you can. Also, eat more plants.
The pigments that give plants their colors are antioxidants that protect your cells and DNA from
oxidative stress.
Oxidative stress, or having more free radicals than antioxidants, is a fact of the modern lifestyle.
In healthy doses, such as from exercising and getting the sun (without burning), free radicals
improve your ability to fight off more oxidative stress. However, too much oxidative stress, such
as from mental stress or toxic exposure, can damage sperms and eggs.
Fortunately, the solution is rather delicious. This summer, visit a farmer’s market to pick up your
local produce or sign up for a Community Supported Agriculture box. Try as many new
vegetables and fruits as you can. Learn to make new salads and cook your vegetables in
different ways.


4) Chill out
Your reproductive functions work best when you are in rest and digest mode. Yet, it is too easy
to be constantly on and always have so much expected of ourselves. We have all gone to
school to learn and accomplish things, but we are not taught enough about how to wind down,
turn off, and just be.
If you are gearing up for fertility treatment or preparing for pregnancy, now is a great time to
develop a stress-busting routine. Meditation, yoga, dancing, or walking in nature are excellent
(and free) ways to reduce your stress. Regular spa or acupuncture treatments are also amazing
ways to recharge. It is also a great time to revisit your priorities, eliminate stressors, and
establish healthy boundaries.


5) Get sun and vitamin D
Summer has arrived. It is a great time to enjoy being outside, from gardening to hiking. Although
the sun gets a bad rep because it is associated with skin cancer, getting sun can actually boost
your fertility. Healthy levels of sun exposure (without getting sunburns) can reduce inflammation,
balance your immune system, and promote blood vessel health, all of which are important for
pregnancy.
Many people only think of vitamin D as important for bone health and calcium absorption. But, in
fact, vitamin D is also essential for fertility and pregnancy. Studies have confirmed that healthy
vitamin D levels increases the odds of a successful pregnancy following IVF.
If you burn easily, be sure to use a non-toxic sunscreen. Also, the Dminder app has alarms that
can warn you to cover up before you burn. If you need to supplement, vitamin D3 form is better
than D2.


6) Get your shut-eye
Getting enough rest is an important part of preparing your body for a pregnancy. It can be hard
not to work, surf on social media, or watch TV late into the night, especially if you struggle to get
your “me” time during any other times of the day. But prioritizing sleep and your bedtime routine
is a worthy time investment. Restorative sleep helps reset your stress response and keep your
hormones balanced.
Allocate 1 – 2 hours to prepare yourself for bed. Create a sacred and relaxing bedtime routine.
You can spend this time taking a candlelit hot bath, reading a relaxing book, journaling, or
having sex (unless your doctor tells you not to). If you need to be on a screen or watch TV, use
blue-blocking glasses. These routines will help you get the most restorative sleep that will
support your fertility journey.


Getting fertility treatments and starting a family is an exciting, although very uncertain, journey.
You want all hands on deck to boost your chance of a successful pregnancy, and studies have
shown that the basics like these are very impactful in preventing infertility in men and women.

If you are interested in learning more about integrative fertility, Dr. Shala Salem at PRC is an integrative fertility specialist who can help. Contact us today.


References:

  1. Rattan S, Zhou C, Chiang C, Mahalingam S, Brehm E, Flaws JA. Exposure to endocrine
    disruptors during adulthood: consequences for female fertility. J Endocrinol .
    2017;233(3):R109-R129. doi: 10.1530/JOE-17-0023
  2. S CM, Elmas C. The Effects of Oxidative Stress and Some of the Popular Antioxidants on
    Reproductive System: A Mini Review. Journal of Nutrition & Food Sciences . 2016;06(02).
    doi: 10.4172/2155-9600.1000464
  3. Fung JL, Hartman TJ, Schleicher RL, Goldman MB. Association of vitamin D intake and
    serum levels with fertility: results from the Lifestyle and Fertility Study. Fertil Steril .
    2017;108(2):302-311. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.05.037
  4. Zhao J, Huang X, Xu B, Yan Y, Zhang Q, Li Y. Whether vitamin D was associated with
    clinical outcome after IVF/ICSI: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Reprod Biol
    Endocrinol . 2018;16(1):13. doi: 10.1186/s12958-018-0324-3
  5. Hollis BW, Johnson D, Hulsey TC, Ebeling M, Wagner CL. Vitamin D supplementation
    during pregnancy: double-blind, randomized clinical trial of safety and effectiveness. J Bone
    Miner Res . 2011;26(10):2341-2357. doi: 10.1002/jbmr.463

Consider Integrative Fertility Care

Deciding to grow your family is an emotional, personal decision, but can sometimes met with challenges in the conception process. Traditional medicine has allowed for many advances that can assist women in this journey, but often fails to recognize the individuality of a woman. The practice of integrative medicine is a specialty practice that combines conventional medicine and select fields of natural medicine, and focuses on treating the whole person in mind, body, and spirit for optimal health. You may choose this approach in your fertility treatment because it is more aligned with your beliefs, values, and philosophies about health. 

It’s a Partnership Between the Patient and the Practitioner

Integrative medicine seeks to work together with the patient in their current state toward common goals. There is open dialogue about any obstacles to lifestyle changes and the likelihood of complying with treatment guidelines before making recommendations. Sometimes, it’s agreed upon that certain conditions may be managed rather than cured as a goal. Both parties agree on the next steps, possible outcomes, and the likelihood of achieving various goals.   

Wellness for Fertility includes Mind, Body, and Spirit

Integrative medicine looks at the whole person. We are multidimensional, dynamic beings and all of our systems affect each other in profound ways. As an example, fertility issues might be caused by diet. Instead of approaching the treatment of a symptom, like anovulation perhaps which of course can be a factor, integrative medicine might explore outside influences of diet. Recommended practices focus on nutrition to help support ovulation. 

Conventional and Alternative Methods are Used to Help Your Body

Using a combination of therapies allows for integrative medicine to be as personalized as possible. Offering both traditional medicine and integrative techniques, affords patients the best options for them, their needs, and their lifestyle. 

In this collaborative relationship, patients are provided with education about how and why different systems work together and benefit from various therapies to continue making choices in their best interests and maintaining health. 

Integrative Medicine Based on Inquiry and New Paradigms

The practice of medicine is dynamic. It’s essential to have an innate sense of curiosity, observation, and investigation in integrative medicine. If something does not appear to be working as expected, other possibilities can be explored. 

How We Use This Model to Support Your Journey 

Dr. Shala Salem is trained in integrative fertility, where she participated in a fellowship at the University of Arizona with Dr. Andrew Weil. Most medical training lacks so much of the information about nutrition, mind body techniques, toxic exposures and how all of these things affect body functions, including our ability to conceive.  Dr. Shala made it her mission to bring all of these disciplines together to help women achieve optimal wellness healing their minds, bodies, and spirits.  Once put into practice these natural methods such as yoga, acupuncture, and healing foods support a pregnancy.

Remember, any of these steps alone may not lead to pregnancy success in a person struggling with infertility. Each and each set of circumstances is unique. We focus on integrative practice, weaving together the best options for you, your goal, and your lifestyle. If you are interested in a consultation to see if integrative techniques can further support your fertility journey, contact us today.

Looking for the Best Fertility Clinic in Southern California?

Pacific Reproductive Center has four convenient locations throughout Southern California, making it easy for patients to receive quality care close to home. Each IVF fertility center has an on-site lab, next-generation services, and state-of-the-art equipment.

Whether in Glendale, Torrance, Irvine, or Corona, our world-class fertility doctors can help you build the family you’ve always wanted.


PRC Torrance
3720 Lomita Blvd, Suite 200 Torrance, CA 90505
PRC Glendale
116 E. Broadway, Suite 300 Glendale, CA 91205
PRC Irvine
10 Post Irvine, CA 92618
PRC Corona
381 Corporate Terrace Corona, CA 92879
CALL TODAY! 424-340-0871

Lifestyle Tips for Fertility – For Free!